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REPORT 



OV THS 



« .A- 

COMMISSION APPOINTED BY THE PRESIDENT 
INVESTIGATE THE CONDUCT OF THE 
WAR DEPARTMENT IN THE 
WAR WITH SPAIN. 



TO 



MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION: 



Gen. Grenville M. Dodue, Town, President. 
Uol. James A. Si;xto.\, Illinois. 
Col. Chakles liENBY, Indiana. 
Capt. Evan r. Howell, Georgia. 
Ex-Govoinor Ukuan A. Woodhcry, Vernioiit. 
Brig. Gen. John M. Wilson, Chief of Engineers, 
U. S. A. 



Gen. James A. Beaver, Pennsylvania. 

Maj. Gon. Alexander Mel). McCook, V. S. A. 

Dr. I'HINEAS S. CoN.N'ER, Ohio. 

Richard Weightman, Secretan/. 

Lieut. Col. F. 15. JoNES, Chief Qiiarteriiia.ster of 

Volunteers, DisbursiTiff Officer. 
Maj. Stephen C. Mills, Recorder. 



IN EIGHT VOLUMES. 

Vol. 1. 

minutes of meetings— report to president- 
appendices. 



WASHINGTON : 

GOVEltNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 
1899. •• 



.11 (.1 



%' 






COISTTEl^TS-TOLUME L 



Paire. 

Minutes of meetings 3-104 

Report to President 1 107-233 

Ai)i)endices: 

A. Secretary R. A. Alger's letter to President 237 

B. President William McKinley's letter to Commission 237 

C. D, E, F. Extracts from ininntes of Commission 238 

G. Letter to Secretary of War 239-244 

H. Reply of the Secretary of War 244-24!) 

I. Reply of the Adjutant-General . 253-26G 

I-. Statistical matter from the office of the Inspector-General 269-424 

I ■'. Explaining recent changes in the inspection system of the Army _ 427-432 

K. Reply of the Quartermaster-General 435-542 

L. Reply of the Commissary-General 545-567 

M. Rejjly of the Surgeon-General 571-734 

ui 



PROCEEDINGS. 



FIRST DAY. 



War Depahtment, 
Washinf/fon, 7). C, September 34, 1S98. 

The Commission met in accordance with the request of the President 
of tlie United States at 12 o'ch)ck noon. 

Present: Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, of Iowa; Col. James A. Sexton, 
of Illinois; Col. Charles Denby, of Indiana; Capt. Evan P. Howell, of 
Georgia; Governor Urban A. Woodbury, of Vermont; Brig. Gen. John 
M. Wilson, Chief of Engineers, United States Army; Gen. James A. 
P.eaver, of Pennsylvania; Mnj. Gen. A. McD. McCook, United States 
Army; Maj. S. C. Mills, Inspector-General, United States Army, 
recorder. 

Absent: Dr. Phineas S. Conner, of Ohio. 

The Commission having met for the purpose of organization. Gen. 
Grenville M. Dodge was nominated for ])resideut of the Commission, 
and unanimously elected. General Dodge then took his seat as 
president. 

The Commission appointed Mr. Richard Weigh tman, of Washington, 
D. C, secretary of the Commission, and the recorder w^as instructed to 
call upon Mr. Weightman and inform him of his appointment. 

It was resolved that for the present the deliberations of the Commis- 
sion be private, and that no information as to the proceedings of the 
Commission be given out save by the president of the Commission. 

The president of the Commission was authorized to employ the neces- 
sary clerical force and j)rocure the necessary stationery and material 
for the use of the Commission. 

Gen. J. A. Beaver was appointed the examiner of the Commission. 

The recorder was directed to request of the Secretary of War the 
detail of a captain and quartermaster of the United States Army to act 
as disbursing officer for the Commission. 

The recorder was instructed to obtain from the President of the United 
States the letter from the Secretary of War asking for an investigation 
of the War Department, the order from the President for the Commis- 
sion to assemble, and the address by the President to the Commission. 

It was resolved that the hours of session of the Commission be from 
10 a. m. till 12.30 p. m., and from 2 p. m. till 4 p. m. 

The Commission, at 1 o'clock p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock 

a. m. Monday, the 2Gth instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 
3 



4 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

SECOND DAY. 

War Departmen'I', 
Washingtoii, D. C, ISeptcmher 26, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjourument at 10 o'clock a. m. 

Present: Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, of Iowa; Col. Charles Denby, of 
Indiana; Gen. A. McD, McCook, United States Army; Gen. John M. 
Wilson, United States Army; Gen. James A. Beaver, of Pennsylva- 
nia; Governor Urban A. Woodbury, of Vermont; Dr. Phineas S. Con- 
ner, of Ohio; Capt. Evan P. Howell, of Georgia; Col. James A. Sexton, 
of Illinois; Mr. Kichard Weightman, of Washington, D. C, secretary; 
Maj. S. C. Mills, United Sta(es Army, recorder. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

Colonel Denby read a paper setting forth his views as to the proper 
course of Investigation to be pursued by the Commission. 

Governor Woodbury said that the question was how to begin the 
investigation, and, as indicated at the last meeting, it was deemed 
proper to call on the Secretary of War for all the infoi-mation he can 
give on the subjects mentioned by Colonel Denby in his pai)er, and with 
a view of going to work on this line of investigation he had drafted a 
letter to the Secretary of War, which he offered for such amendments 
as might be thought necessary. The letter was read by tlie secretary. 

On motion it was ordered that a typewritten copy of the letter be 
prepared for each member of the Commission, that it may be considered, 
and such amendments as are desirable. 

General McCook incjuired if a copy of the papers from the President 
to the Commission had been received. 

The recorder stated that a request had been made for the papers, but 
they had not yet been received. 

General Wilson read a paper giving in detail the information desired 
of the various branches of the War Department, and, after discussion, 
it was ordered that it be included in the letter to the Secretary of War 
as a memorandum of the specific information desired, and that a type- 
written copy of the same be furnished to the members of the Commis- 
sion. 

The chairman read a letter received from E. T. Parker, of Washing- 
ton, making charges against the War Department; one from a gentle- 
man from Massachusetts in regard to the mail service, and one from 
W. Clark Marshall in regard to corned beef. Also a statement taken 
from the Washington Post, giving charges puri)orting to have been 
made by the chaplain of the First Pennsylvania Volunteers, of the bad 
treatment of soldiers at Chickamauga. 

The disposition of communications received was discussed, and a 
form of letter acknowledging their receipt was adopted; also a form of 
letter calling for specific information in cases which would seem to 
require such action. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 5 

Dr. Conner was granted leave of absence for forty-eiglit hours. 

On motion it was ordered that the afternoon session of this day be 
devoted to a visit to Fort Myer. 

On motion it was ordered that the president of the Commission be 
authorized to give to the press such information as to the proceedings 
of the Commission as he may in his discretion think best, and that at 
the proper time a copy of the letter of inquiry to the Secretary of War 
be given to the press. 

The Commission, at 12 o'clock, adjourned to meet to-morrow, the 
27th instant, at 10 a. m. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



THIED DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, September 27, 189S. 

The Commission met at 10 o'clock a. m., with all the members present 
excepting Dr. Fhineas S. Conner, The secretary and recorder were 
also present. 

The minutes of the preceding meeting were read and approved. 

The president of the Commission submitted a communication from the 
President of the United States, giving (1) the naines of the comnus- 
sioners as follows: Maj. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, Iowa; Col. James 
A. Sexton, Illinois; Col. Charles Denby, Indiana; Capt. Evan P. 
Howell, Georgia; Governor Urban A. Woodbury, Vermont; Brig. 
Gen, John M. Wilson, U. S. A.; General James A, Beaver, Penn- 
sylvania; Maj. Gen. Alexander McD. McCook, U. S. A.; Dr. Phineas 
S. Conner, Ohio; Maj. Stephen C. Mills, recorder; (2) the following 
letter from the Secretary of War : 

War Department, 

Washiuijton, Septimher S, 1S9S. 
To the President: 

I have the honor to ask that a board, consisting of from five to seven nieiubers of 
the most distinguished soldiers and civilians that can be selected, be appointed by 
you, with fnll power to investigate thoroughly every bureau of the War Department 
in conneetion with the mustering, clothing, supplying, and arming of troops, trans- 
portation, the letting of contracts and chartering of vessels, and all expenditures of 
every kind, as well as of orders issued by this Department; indeed, that everything 
connected with the Army be thoroughly investigated for your information. 

R. A. Alger, Secretarij of JVar. 

and (3) an address by the President to the Commission, as follows: 

To the Commisxioii Jppohtted by the I'n><id()it to Inve^ti;/ate the Conduct of the War 

Department in the War ivith Spain. 

Gentlemen : Before suggesting the matters which shall come before you for inves- 
tigation I desire to express my appreciation to each of you for your willingness to 
accept the patriotic service to which you have been invited. You are to perform 
one of the highest public duties that can fall to a citizen, and your unselfishness in 
undertaking it makes mo profoundly grateful. 



6 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

There has beeu in many quarters severe crititisni of the conduct of the war with 
Spain. Charges of criminal neglect of the soldiers in camp and field and hospital 
and in transports have been so persistent that, whether true or false, they have made 
a deep impression upon the country. It is my earnest desire that you shall thor- 
oughly investigate these charges and make the fullest examination of the adminis- 
tration of the War Department in all of its brandies with the view to establishing 
the truth or falsity of these accusations. I put upon yon no limit to the scope of 
your investigation. Of all departments connected with the Army I invite the closest 
scrutiny and examination, and shall afford every facility for the most searching 
inquiry. The records of the War Department and the assistance of its officers shall 
be subject to your call. 

I can not impress upon you too strongly my wish that yonr investigation shall bo 
so thorough and complete that your report, when made, will fix the responsibility 
for any failure or fault, by reason of neglect, incompetency, or maladministration, 
upon the officers and bureaus responsible therefor, if it be found that the evils con\- 
plained of have existed. 

The people of the country are entitled to know whether or not the citizens who so 
promptly responded to the call of duty have been neglected or misused or maltreated 
by the (iovernment to which they so willingly gave their services. If there have 
been wrongs committed, the wrongdoers must not escape conviction and punishment. 

The j)resident ordered to be spread upon tlie records of the minutes 
that the Commission, after adjourning yesterday, met at Fort Myer 
and examined the hospital there. 

The president announced the receipt of a communication from W. 
W. Howard, of 1007 West Ashland street, Los Angeles, Cal., inclos- 
ing two clippings from a Rochester paper, entitled "An attack on Camp 
Merritt — Its location." The secretary was directed to make the usual 
acknowledgment. 

The secretary read to the Commission the letter to the Secretary of 
War, as follows : 

Washington, D. C, September 2r,. 1S9S. 
The Secretary of War. 

Sir: Pursuant to authority conferred upon us by the President, we have tbe honor 
to request that you direct the Adjutant-Gieneral, the Quartermaster-General, tlie 
Commissary-General, the Surgeon-General, the Chief of Ordnance, and the Chief of 
Engineers to furnish us as soon as practicable iuforuiatiou as to the condition of their 
several departments at the time of the declaration of war with Spain and the opera- 
tions of those departments from that time until the present. We desire the infor- 
mation to include the following, viz: 

(1) The times and places of the mobilization of the regular aud volunteer troops, 

(2) The organization of these troops into the various subdivisions of the Army, 
the personnel of the brigade, division, corps, and array commanders, aud of their 
staffs, wliether appointed from the permanent establishment, from the National 
Guard, or from civil life. 

(3) The amount and kind of camp and garrison equipage and other supplies that 
were on hand at the beginning of the war, the amount 8ubse<|uently purchased, when 
and where purchased, when and where delivered to your Department, and when and 
where actually issued to the troops. 

(4) Similar information in regard to furnishing the troops with arms and 
accouterments. 

(5) Which of the volunteers were armed and equipped in the various State camps, 
and which in the general camp. 

(6) Upon whose recommendation or judgineiit the various general rendezvous 
were selected, and the reasons for such selection. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 7 

(7) Full particnliirs relative to the tiausportatiou of troops by soa, giviu.n' an 
account of the jjrovisioua made for the acconimodatiou and care of the sick and 
wounded. 

(8) An account of the quantity, quality, and kind of food furnished the troops; 
and in case that any of them failed of being plentifully and seasonably supplied, 
state the reasons therefor. 

(9) As to the proper tentagc, beds, linen, medicines, food, and all other necessary 
equipment and supplies for the use of the Hospital Corps of the Army. If there was 
any lack of these things at any time, state the reasons therefor. 

(10) Whether the medical start' was efficient and sufficient at all times for the 
proper care of the sick and wounded; and if not, state the reasons therefor. 

(11) Such information relative to the conditions and operations of the Ordnance 
and Engineering departments as will be of value to us in our investigation. 

We have outlined brieliy a portion only of the information that we trust you will 
be able to give us. It will be satisfactory to have it communicated to us in writing, 
or by the chiefs of the several bureaus in person, with the submission of such 
records confirming their statements as they may be pleased to hand us. 

To aid you in complying with this recj[ue8t there is submitted herewith a list of 
special questions, to which, so far as is possible, answers are desired. 
Very respectfully, 

Geenville M. Dodge, President. 

INFORMATION DESIRED FROM SECRETARY OF WAR. 

1. Plan of campaign x^roposed immediately after the declaration of war; was it 
intended to move at once on Havana, or that the campaign should be postponed 
until the autumn? 

2. When was the Santiago cami^aigu determined upon? 

3. Why was Tampa selected as the base of operations? 

4. Why were summer camps organized at Fernandina, Jacksonville, and Tampa? 

5. When was the Porto Rico campaign determined upon? 

6. Why were the troops held on transports after embarkation at Tampa and not 
permitted to sail for several days? 

INFORMATION DESIRED FROM ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 

1. Number of troops available for duty just before war was declared. 

2. Number of men enlisted in Kegular Army under authority of the law authorizing 
placing it upon a war footing. 

3. Number of volunteer regiments mustered in, number of officers appointed, and 
number of men enlisted under the first call of the President. 

4. Number of volunteer regiments mustered in, number of officers appointed, and 
number of men enlisted under the second call of the President. 

5. Maximum number of officers and enlisted men in the regular and volunteer 
forces during the war. 

6. Number of officers appointed in the volunteer service in each start" department 
during the war. 

7. Number of regiments of regulars and of volunteers with maximum number of 
troops operating in Cuba in the Santiago campaign with the organization of the 
command, its commanding general, corps, division and brigade commanders, the 
niiniber of ortlcers and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who have 
died from wounds or disease. 

8. Number of regiments of regulars and of volunteers with maximum number of 
troops operating in Porto Kico, with the organization of the command, its com- 
manding general, corps, division and brigade connuanders, the number of officers 
and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who have died from wounds 
or disease. 



8 INVESTIGATION OF CONDrCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

9. Number of regimfiits of regulars and of volunteers with uiaximuni number of 
troops operating iu tbe Philippiue Islauds with the organization of the" command, 
its commanding general, corps, divisicni and brigade commanders, the number of 
officers and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who have died from 
wounds or disease. 

10. Location of camps in the United States, by whom selected, number of regi- 
ments and number of officers and enlisted men of regulars and of volunteers at each 
camp, organization of camps, names of commanding general.-,, together with names 
of division and brigade commanders, length of time each camp was maintained, and 
nnmber of deaths by disease at each camp. 

11. Finally, all reports of officers in the Inspector-Generals Department. 

INFORMATIOX DESIRED FROM QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 

1. Upon the declaration of war, was the organization and were the regulations of 
the Department of such a character as to admit of the prompt equipment and move- 
ment of troops? 

2. How many officers belonged to the Department when w^ar was declared, and 
how many (with their rank) have been appointed in the volunteer service since that 
time? 

3. For an army of what size was the Department prepared to fully supply all 
necessary clothing, camp and garrison equipage on April 1, 1898. 

4. Was the clothing on hand and ready for issue to troops, and that previously 
issued, of a character suitable for use in a tropical climate? 

5. What amount of teutage was available, and were the troops sent from garrison 
life to the field at once furnished with necessary tentage and other quartermaster 
supplies necessary for use in camp life? 

6. What steps were takmi fur fully supplying an army of 250,000 men with suitable 
clothing, camp and garrison equipage, and what amount of material of each kind 
had been obtained and what amount issued up to August 31. I<sy8? 

7. How many public animals and how many wagons with harness were available 
Aprill, 1898? 

8. What steps were taken for obtaining animals, wagons, and harness; how were 
they obtained, and what number had beeu purchased and issued by A.ugu8t 31, 1898? 

9. What arrangements had beeu made previous to April 1, 1898, for the rapid move- 
ment of troops by laud and by water? 

10. What arrangements were made and how many troops were actually moved by 
railroad and by vessel between April 1 and August 31, 1898? 

11. Were full and complete arrangements made for supplying the troops operating 
in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philippines with suitable clothing and with camp and 
garrison equipage and quartermasters" stores for armies operating in the field? 

12. How nuiny and what vessels were purchased or chartered for transportation of 
troops? What was the capacity of each vessel? \Vas it properly arranged for the 
comfort of the troops, so far as was possible? Was there a full supply of water for 
use of troops arranged iu every case, and was each and every vessel care.'ully 
inspected by an officer or agent of the Department and pronounced satisfactory 
before tr(n>ps were permitted to embark? 

13. What arrangements were made for the disembarkation of troops, when there 
was a iiossibility of it being done outside of a harbor? 

14. When so-called permanent camps were located for a large force, what arrange- 
ments were made for a full and complete supply of potable water for use of troops? 
Were tent floors furnished in any cases other than for hospitals? If so, where and 
to whom? 

15. When troops were moved by rail for long distances, were there any arrange- 
ments made for a supply of water? Wore there any unneeessary delays iu the 
movements of troops from the camps establisxied on the return of the Army from 
Cuba? 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. » 

16. What, if any, complaints in writing; have been received by the Quartermaster- 
General in reference to tUo pronipt oonipJianoe with proper ro.ritiisitions or complainta 
of any character in referonce to the operations of the Department in connection 
with the nioveiuout of troops, the is5uiag of proper and necessary supplies, or the 
performance of any duty appertaining to the Quartermaster's Department? 

17. Whal f-jnda were at the command of the Department April 1, 1898, and what 
additional funds were available by August 31, 1838, under general or special legis- 
lation? 

INFOKM.VTION DESIUF.D FROM Oi:i)XAN('E DEPAIMMKNT. 

1. What was the organization of the Department on April 1, 1898? 

2. How many arsenals were there where ordnance materials were being manufac- 
tured and what was their daily capacity? 

3. On April 1, 1898, what were the conditions in reference to the following: 

How many modern, high-power, heavy, breech-loading rille guns were available 
and what were their calibers? 

How many gun carriages of each class were available? 

How many 12-inch B. L. ritied mortars were available? 

How many 12-inch B. i,. rifled mortar carriages were available? 

How many rapid-lire guns and of what caliber, together with their mounts, were 
available? 

How much black powder for heavy and rapid-lire gnus was available? 

How much smokeless powder for heavy and rapid-tire guns was available? 

How many projectiles for each class of high-power guns, rifled mortars, and rapid- 
fire guns were available? 

How many rilled siege guns, howitzers, and mortars, and of what caliber, with 
their carriages, were available, and what ammunition was ready for them? Was 
the powder black or smokeless? 

How many rilled held guns and of what caliber, with their carriages, necessary 
harness, etc., were available, and what annuunitiou was ready for them? Was the 
powder black or smokeless? 

How many machine guns, with their mounts, were available, and what ammunition 
was ready for them? Was the powder black or smokeless? 

How many rifles and of what caliber were ready for issue to troops, and what 
amount of ammunition was ready? Was the powder black or smokeless? 

How many carbines, how many pistols, and how many sabers, with belts, etc., 
were ready for issue, and what amount of amnriinitiou for the carbines and pistols 
was ready? \Va8 the powder black or smokeless? 

How many sets of horse equii)ments for cavalry and light artillery were ready? 

How many knapsacks, haversacks, meat cans, tin cups, knives, forks, and spoons 
were ready ? 

An army of what size was the Ordnance Department prepared to completely ecpiip 
in every respect ready for field service, with necessary artillery, small arms, ammu- 
nition, and all articles furnished by that Department, on April 1, 1898? 

4. By August 31 what of the articles mentioned, in addition to those on hand April 
1, had been obtained, how obtained, and how much had been issued? 

5. What, if any, complaints in writing have been received by the Chief of Ord- 
nance in reference to the prompt compliance with proper re([uisitions, or complaints 
of any character in reference to the operations of the Ordnance Department in con- 
nection with furnishing necessary arnuiment for permanent defenses or siege and held 
artillery, rifles, eciuipments for infantry, artillery, and cavalry, and annuunitiou of 
all kinds? 

6. What funds were under the control of the Department April 1, 1898, and what 
additional funds were available by August 31 under general or special legislation? 



10 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

INFORMATION DESIUKD I'HOM SUBSISTENCE DEPARTMENT. 

1. What was the organization of the Subsistence Department April 1, 1898, the 
number and rank of officers, and number of commissary sergeants? 

2. What additions in nnmbor and rank of reguhir officers, and what number of 
volunteer officers were appointed in the Subsistence Department between April 1 
and August 31 1 

3. On April 1, 1898, an army of wbat size was the Subsistence Department pro- 
pared to fully snpplj' with officers and the necessary field rations, and of what docs 
that ration consist? 

4. Between April 1 and August 31, 1898, what arrangements were made for fully 
supplying with food an army of 250,000 men serving in the licld and in camp? What 
was the field ration and what was the ration in camp? 

5. What arrangements were made for supplying the army in Cuba, the army in 
Porto Rico, and the army in the I'hilippines, and of what did the ration actually 
consist in each case? 

6. Were the troops in the field and those in camps fully supplied at all times with 
proper food? If not, why not? 

7. What, if any, complaints in writing have been received by the Commissary- 
General in rcfeience to the prompt compliance with requisitions, the lack of food, 
poor character of food, or com])laints of any character Avhatever in reference to fur- 
nishing supplies, or the performance of any duty appertaining to the Subsistence 
Department? 

8. What funds were under the command of the Department on April 1 and what 
additional funds were available by August 31, under general or special legislation? 

INFORMATION DESIRED FROM MEDICAL DEPARTMENT. 

1. What was the organization of the Medical Department on April 1, 1898? TTow 
many officers, with tiieir rank; how many hospital stewards, and what was the size 
of the Hospital Corps? 

2. How many ambulances and litters were available? 

3. An army of what size was the Department able to comjjletely fit out with medi- 
cal officers, stewards, and hospital corps, and necessary surgical iustrunieuts and 
supi^lies of every character? 

4. Between April 1 and August 31, 1898, what steps were taken for fully supply- 
ing an army of 250,000 men with all necessary surgeons, stewards, hospital corps, 
ambulances, litters, surgical instruments, and medical supplies of all and every 
character? 

5. How many general hospitals were organized, where located, how equipped and 
managed, number of patients and number of deaths in each case, between April 1 
and August 31, 1898? 

(5. How many hospitals were established at various camps; what were thearrange- 
meuts for the care and comfort of the sick and wounded; how many sick were cared 
for at each camp hospital, and how many deaths occurred? 

7. What, if any, railroad ambulance trains were established; where were they 
located and used? 

8. How many hospital ships were obtained; how were they equipped, how managed, 
and what work did they perform? What arrangements were made and how were 
the armies operating in Cuba, Porto Eico, and the Philipi>iues supplied with medi- 
cal officers, medical supplies, and food for the sick and wounded ? 

9. What number of surgeons of volunteers, hospital stewards, nurses, attendants, 
etc., were employed between April 1 and August 31 in addition to those in the 
service of the I'nited States on April 1, 1898? 

10. Were all vessels used in transporting sick and wounded thoroughly inspected 
by a medical officer before troops were permitted to embark, and were they fully 
supplied with surgeons, surgical instruments, medical supples of every character, 
potablo water, ind proper food for sick and convalescents? 



MINUTES OP THE COMMISSION. 11 

11. Were the armies operating in Cuba, Toito Rico, and the Philippines fully sup- 
plied with efticient surgeons, stewards, and hospital corps, and with ambiilames, 
litters, surgical instruments, medical supplies of all kinds, and proper food for the 
sick and wounded? 

12. Were the chief surgeons in the various camps instructed to carefully watch 
their sanitary condition, to look after their cleanliness, to demand the proper 
supply of water, to test the water as to its character, to look into the cooking 
arrangements, to locate the sinks and to see to their proper caref 

13. Why were regimental hospitals in camps abolished and division hospitals sub- 
stituted? Were the results satisfactory? 

14. How were the surgeons employed in the field, in camps, and in general hos- 
pitals selected? Was there any regular examination retxuired, and as a rule have 
they proved efficient and faithful? 

15. How were the hospital stewards, nurses, and attendants selected? 

16. What, if any, complaints in writing have been received by the Surgeon- 
General in reference to the prompt compliance with requisitions, the lack of proper 
medical attendance, the lack of surgical instruments, the lack of proper care, food, 
and water for the sick and wounded with armies in the field or with troops in camp 
or men in general hospitals and field hospitals or on railroad trains or transports at 
sea; in fact, what, if any, complaints have been made in writing in reference to 
the issuing of proper supplies or the performance of any duty appertaining to the 
Medical Department of the Army? 

17. What funds were at the command of the Department on April 1, and what 
additional funds were available by August 31 under general or special legislation? 

It was moved and carried that the president sign and send the fore- 
going letter, and that a copy of same be given to the press. 

The pre.sident notified the Commission that he woukl be absent on 
Wednesday and Thursday of this week, and General Beaver then 
moved that, in the absence of the president, Colonel Denby should act 
as president, which, upon being duly seconded, was carried. 

The president stated that if there was no objection Colonel Denby 
should be given the title of vice-president, and, hearing no objection, 
the president so announced that title. 

Upon motion of Governor Woodbury, duly seconded, it was deter- 
mined to allow one representative of each of the press associations to 
be present duiing the examination of witnesses by this Commission. 

It was ordered by the Commission that the stenographer should not 
record all the remarks made by members of the Commission, but that 
the regular routine work of the proceedings should be recorded. 

The following resolution was moved: 

Resolvcih First, that the Secretary of War, the Adjutant-General, the Quarter- 
master-General, the Commissary-General, and the Surgeon-General be reciuested to 
transmit to this Commission all comidaints that have been received bj^ them since 
April 1, 1898, touching the conduct of the war. 

Resolved, Second, that this Commission invites and is ready and willing to receive 
and consider any complaints about the management of any of the various branches 
of the War Department from any person or persons; that we respectfully request 
that such complaints be made in writing, stating facts that the party may know of 
his own knowledge i)lainly and in detail, giving names of any officers or enlisted 
men who may be charged with miscoudnct or incompetency, addressed to the seci'e- 
tary of the Commission at Washington, D. C. 



12 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Upon being" duly seconded, this motion was carried. 

The president read a letter from William K. Hill, M. D., of Balti- 
more, Md., stating tliat he offered last spring to construct portable 
buildings, etc., which, if followed out, would have made conditions 
better. The president ordered that a communication be sent to him 
acknowledging the receipt of the letter and informing him that the 
same would receive proper attention. 

Upon motion, duly seconded, it was resolved to make the salary of 
the secretary of the Commission $10 per day, and his expenses while 
out of the city of Washington, D. C. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 
to-morrow, the 28th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Woshhigfon, I). C, September 28, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m. 

Present: Col. Charles Denby, vice-president; Gen. John M. Wilson, 
United States Army; Governor Urban A. Woodbury; Capt. Evan P. 
Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read, amended, and 
approved. 

The following letters were read, and it was directed that they be 
answered on the proper form, 1 or 2, and tiled: 

W. S. Witham, Swainsboro, Ga., September 20. 

John H. McWilliams, Celina, Tenn., September 17. 

J. S. Bourdon, Augusta, Me., September 2G. 

H. Gottschalk, Chicago, 111., September 24, relative to Private Peter 
Kramer, Seventh Illinois Volunteers, stated to have been sent to 
Chicago from hospital at Montauk Point in a terrible condition. It 
was directed that a copy of this letter be sent to the commanding 
officer at Camp Wikoff" with a request for report. 

General Wilson read a letter from Theodore W. Noyes, editor of the 
Washington Evening Star, asking for certain facilities for obtaining 
the news from the Commission. It was directed that it be filed, to be 
considered by the full Commission. General Wilson stated that he 
would advise the writer of the action taken. 

The report of Brig. Gen. Johu M. Wilson, Chief of Engineers, United 
States Army, was received, read, and placed on file. 
* The Commission, at 11.40 a. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 13 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The vicepresideut called attention to a telegram from Major-General 
Wheeler, asking if he would be needed to appear before the Commis- 
sion before Saturday, to which a reply was ordered sent stating he 
would not be needed before Tuesday of next week. 

The vice-president read articles from several newspapers, which were 
handed to the recorder to be properly filed. 

The Commission, at 2.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 
to-morrow, the 29th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



FIFTH DAY. 



War Departmf.^it, 
Washington, B. C, Se^yt ember kj, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m. 

Present: Col. Charles Denby, Gen. John M. Wilson, U. S. A.; Gov- 
ernor Urban A. Woodbury, Capt. Evan P. Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read, amended, and 
approved. 

The chairman read the following communications, referred to the 
Commission in letter of J. A. Porter, secretary to the President of the 
United States, dated September 28, 1898: 

Margaret H. Garrard, Billport, Long Island, September 25. Answer 
by Form 2. 

Mrs. E. C. Allis, 29 East Twenty-first street, New York, September 
2G. Answer by Form 2. 

Jesse M. Holland, Camp Wikoff, New York, September 26. Special 
answer. • 

Also the following, received in letter from the secretary to the Presi- 
dent, dated September 28, and marked " Important:" 

Dr. Ilobert MacLean Taft, 371 West End avenue. New York, Septem- 
ber 13. Important, and to have special answer, the writer to be 
requested to forward the affidavits to which he refers, and such addi- 
tional evidence as he has, and to be informed that the affiants men- 
tioned will have the immunity from court-martial proceedings desired. 

Letters were read and disposed of as follows: 

A committee of citizens, by Augustus Peters, chairman, and Robert 
B. Koosevelt, secretary. Special answer. 

George E. Fox, Philadelphia, Pa., August 28. Usual acknowledg- 
ment. 

George J. Thompson, Anderson, W. Va., September 16. Usual 
acknowledgment. 



14 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Mrs. B. F. Sower, Thomas, W. Va., September 26. Usual ackDOwl- 
edgment. 

Benjamin F. Jennings, Pittsburg, Pa., September 23. File. 

H. Blanchard Dominick, 14 West Forty-ninlh street, New York. 
Usual acknowledgment. 

John H. Mills, 285 Bedford avenue, Brooklyn, K. Y., August 24. 
Usual acknowledgment. 

Mrs. Mary P. Merritt, 87 St. James street, Kingston, N. Y., Se])tem- 
ber 14. Usual acknowledgment. 

Oliver 0. Sabin, Washington, D. C, September 10. Important; 
special. 

11. Stansbury Sutton, major and brigade surgeon, Pittsburg, Pa., 
September 14. Usual acknowledgment. 

Edward T. Howard, room 127, Dreibund Building, New York, Sep- 
tember 26. Usual acknowledgment. 

George P. Holmes, St. Louis, Mo., September 15. File. 

A. D. Ferren, 867 Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, September 15. File. 

Eev. S. Leroy Blake, New London, Conn., August 21. File. 

S. S. Carlton, Webb, Me., August 31. File. 

J. H. Laden, 154 East Houston street, New York, August 30. Usual 
acknowledgment. 

G. W. F. Graii", Kinersville, Pa., September 13. Usual acknowledg- 
ment. 

S. W. Armington, Holden, Mass., August 22. File. 
Walter W. Concklin, Englewood, N. J., September 7. Special. 

Z. Haeberlin, Terre Haute, Ind., September 17. File. 

Mrs. William B. Hanna, 110 South Thirty-eighth street, Pliiladelphia, 
Pa., September 23. Usual acknowledgment. 

Francis Lowell Hills, chairman relief committee, Wilmington, Del., 
September 23. Usual acknowledgment. 

M. J. Spaulding, secretary Seventy-first Kegiment Aid Society, 
Borough of the Bronx, New York, August 31. Special. 

K. Brinkerhoff", Mansfield, Ohio, September 10. Inclosing letter of 
Dr. P. D. Sims. 

General Wilson read two letters received by him from Col. John S. 
Saunders, No. 1 Eialto Building, Baltimore, Md., and asked that they 
be acknowledged. So ordered. 

General Wilson read a letter sent by him to officers of the Engineer- 
ing Department five days before the one already given in his report, 
and asked that it be filed with said report, and it was so ordered. 

Governor Woodbury was appointed a committee to prepare and sub- 
mit letters to Generals Merritt, Merriam, and Otis, and to the chief 
quartermaster at San Francisco, Gal., asking for certain information. 

At 12.30 p. m, the Commission took a recess until 2.30 p. m. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 15 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2.30 o'clock p. ra. 

Governor Woodbury submitted to the Commission a letter which he 
had framed, and the same was ordered sent to Maj. Gen. E. S. Otis aud 
Maj. Gen. H. C. Merriam, which is as follows : 

Sir: We have the honor to request you to furnish us as early as possible with 
sucli information as you may possess as to the ade(inacy or inadequacy of the ([uar- 
tenuaster, commissary, aud medical supplies, aud medical staff of the troops under 
your command while in this country, while en route to and at your preseut station, 
and whether or not such supplies were promptly and sufiScieutly issued to the 
troops. Also as to the proper or improper preparation of the transports for the 
transportation of your troops to your present station. We would also be pleased to 
be informed as to the ration issued to the troops. 
Very respectfully, 

Charles Denhy, Vice-President. 

A like letter was ordered sent to Maj. Gen. Wesley Merritt, modified 
to read "and while in command at Manila" in lieu of the expression 
"while at your present station." 

The following letters were received by the Commission and disposi- 
tion thereof made as herein noted : 

Mr. F. J. Pllueger, Station A, Newport, Ky., September 27, 1898. 
Form 2. 

Mrs, Catharine White, care Chicago Eecord, Chicago, III., September 
27, 1898. Form 1. 

Mr. Edward C. Ellis, Boston, September 28, 1898. Form 1. 

Mr. F. W. Taylor, 767 Van Buren street, Milwaukee, Wis., Septem- 
ber 25, 1898. The secretary was directed to send to the commanding 
officer, Fort Monroe, for a report on the matter. 

Mrs. F. M. Armstrong and Miss F. M. Walcott (joint letter), Waiala, 
Uampton, Va., September 27, 1898. Special. 

The Commission, at 3.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 

to-morrow, the 30th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, B. C, Septcmher 30, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m. 

Present: Col. Charles Denby, Gen. John M. Wilson, Governor Urban 
A. Woodbury, Capt. Evan P. Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters were read by the vice-president and disposition 
thereof directed as herein noted : 

R. H. Newton, All Saints' Church, New York City, September 28. 
Special. 



16 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

John Liggins, Cape May, N. J., September 30. Form 1. 

Thos. S, Morgau, Boston, Mass., September 27. Form 1. 

J. Morris Keen, New York City, September 28. Form 2. 

H. O. Ladd, president Jamaica Ilosiiital llelief Society, Jamaica, 
borough of Queens, N. Y., September 25. Special. 

Wm. F. INlannix, first lieutenant Company I,' Third Pennsylvania, 
417 South Ninth street, Philadelphia, Pa., September 29. Special. 

Mrs. Samuel S. Ferris, Sound Eeach, Conn., September 28. Special. 

K. P. Wormley, Jackson, N. H., September 27. Special. 

J. W. Brown, Chicago, 111., September 27. Form 1. 

Dr. W. Gilman Thompson, New Y^ork City, September 28. Special. 

O. W. Bennett, Drexel Building, Philadelphia, September 29. Form ] . 

The recorder was directed to obtain a scrapbook, in which clippings 
should be placed and grouped under regular departments and to show 
which belong to the dirterent camps. 

The Commission, at 11.30, adjourned until 2.30 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The following letters were read by the vice-president and disposition 
thereof directed as herein noted: 

E. G. Norton, Delphine, Ala., September 27. Form 2. 

J. ^I. Blodgett, Chicago, September 26, inclosing newspaper clipping 
signed Edward J. Hamilton. Form 2. 

The Commission, at 3.20 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock to- 
morrow, October 1. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



SEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 

WasMu<jton, I). C, October 1, 1898. 

The Commission met i)ursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m. 

Present: Col. Charles Denby, Gen. A. ]\IcD. McCook, Gen. John 
M. Wilson, Governor Urban A. Woodbury, Capt. Evan P. Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters were read by the vice-president and disposition 
thereof directed as herein noted: 

Mr. H. G. Day, editor Standard Printing Company, Albert Eea, 
Minn., inclosing clipping on interview with J. A. Caswell, editor Anoka 
Herald (Anaka, Minn.). Form 1, to H. G.Day; Form 2, to J. A.Caswell. 

Special Orders, No. 229, Headquarters of the Army, Adjutant-Gen- 
eral's Office, Washington, D. C. September 28, ordering Francis B. 
Jones, chief quartermaster. United States Volunteers, as disbursing 
officer of the Commission. File. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 17 

Mr. Fiauk Jones, New York, September 29. Form 2. (Refers to 
puicliase of Merrimac.) (Kefer to Navy, later ou.) 

Mr. A. E. Welch, ludependence, Mo., September 28, Form 1, and 
return inclosed letter. 

Mr. K. (i. Carter, first lieutenant, brevet captain, retired, Washing- 
ton, September 29. Form 1. 

Miss Cora T. Brady, secretary, Philadelphia, September 30. File. 
Special. 

Nelson Hersh, representing the New York W^orld, care Hotel Raleigh, 
Wasliington, D. C, October 1. 

The following letter was directed sent in answer by the secretary: 

The Commission has the honor to ackiiowlediro receipt of your letter of this date, 
triinsmitting certain statements in conneitiou with the conditions at Camp WikofF, 
together with a list of witnesses who can be called before the Commission. The 
letter and statements have been read by the Commission, and I am instructed to say 
will receive careful consideration. 

F. Dorsey, Baltimore, containing clipping. Form 2. 

James E. Pitman, New York, September 22. Form 2, also to be 
referred to General Lee. 

John Moran, Philadelphia, September 29. Form 2. 

A. Churcheil, M. D., Nevada, Mo., September 28. Form 1. 

S. S. Culbertson, 640 Third street, Steubenville, Ohio. Form 2. 

M. R. Leverson, M. D., Fort Hamilton, N. 1"., September 30. Form 1. 

Upon motion of Governor Woodbury, duly seconded, it was decided 
that in signing all letters the secretary shall precede his signature by 
the following words: "By direction of the Commission." 

The Commission, at 12 -o'clock, adjourned to meet on Monday next 
October 3, at 10 o'clock a. m. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Witshimiton, I). C, October 3, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
being present excepting General Beaver. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the meeting of Saturday last were read and 
approved. 

General McCook read a letter he had received from Secretary W^eight- 
man, inclosing one from J. L. Patterson, dated Washington, D. C, 
October 1, 1898, in the case of Dan Dodge, a private, who died at 
Arroyo, August 10, 1898, unattended, it is said, and his body lying 
unattended for several hours between two patients, and that soldiers 
who wrote about this were reduced and forced to retract, and inquiring 
if protection will be given to witnesses to these facts j to which 
7833— VOL. 1 2 



18 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

General McCook said he had replied that there would be uo danger to 
any person so far as the Commission has power for any affidavit that 
may be furnished, or any testimony that may be offered, but full im- 
munity would be granted to all who may testify, and persecution will 
not be tolerated. '' 

On motion of General Wilson, the action of General McCook in his 
letter to Mr. Weightmau was approved. 

The following resolution was adopted: 

Whereas a large number of uusigued communicatious have been received by 
members of this Commission making complaints and suggestions: Therefore, 

Resolved, That sucTi anonymous communications will receive no attention from this 
Commission. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

Sarah F. Hallowell (without date), Philadelphia, Pa. Form 2. 

C. S. Wilson, St. Paul, Minn., September 28. Form 1. 

Surgeon-General United States Army, October 2, transmitting copy 
of communication from R. Stausbury Sutton. Form 1. 

Surgeon-General United States Army, October 2, to be given to the 
press. Form 1. 

It was directed that Gen. H. V. Boynton, United States Volunteers, 
who will be in the city this week, be called before the Commission in 
reference to Camp Thomas, Chickamauga. 

The Commission went into executive session, during which the fol- 
lowing was passed : 

Voted, That each member of this Commission shall be allowed and paid his 
expenses incurred in traveling from his place of residence to Washington, and a like 
sum to pay his expenses from Washington to his home, in addition to a compensation 
to be hereafter lixed. Each member shall l)e allowed and paid the sum of $10 per 
day to pay his current expenses while a member of this Commission, or from the 
time he has been in Washington at the request of the President. And in addition 
thereto the president of this Commission shall be allowed and paid the sum of $10 
per day, for such time as he deems it expedient, to rent a parlor at the hotel for a 
consultation room. Each stenograplier employed by this Commission shall be 
allowed and paid $125 per month, and expenses while doing duty outside of 
Washington. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

George Eowland, M. D., Covington, Ind., September 28. Form 1, 
and name to be taken as witness. 

H. W. Perkins, South Bend, Ind., September 27. Form 2, and name 
as witness. 

J. D. Holmes, New York City, September 30. Form 1, and name as 
witness. 

A. L. Braden, New York City, October 1. Form 2, and special 
answer. 

William Jenning Powell, Elizabeth, N. J., September 30. Form 1. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 19 

It was directed that the President of the Uuited States be requested 
to appoint as notaries public two stenographers of the Commission. 
The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

Dr. C. B. Hutchins, San Francisco, Cal., September 26. Form 1. 

Dr. H. A. Dobson and Josie M. Dobson, Washington, D. C, Octo- 
ber 1. Form 1. 

I. W. Stevens, sheriff, Bandera, Tex., September 28. Form 1. Refer 
to Adjutant-General. 

Dr. D. Simmons, Brooklyn, N. Y., September 29. Form 2. 

A letter was received from Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, stating that he 
would meet the Commission on Wednesday, October 5. File. 

A communication was read from the press, requesting permission 
to allow stenographers admission before the Commission when taking 
testimony. 

It was thereupon moved, seconded, and carried, that the press be 
allowed to have present at the sittings of the Commission during the 
examination of witnesses three stenographers; two being representa- 
tives of out-of-town i)apers, and one representing the city papers. 

The Commission, at 3.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 

to-morrow, the 4th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Becorder. 



:ninth day. 



War Department, 
Washington, J). C, October 4, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., 
witli all the members of the Commission present, together with the 
secretary and recorder. 

The proceedings of the preceding day were read and approved. 

It was decided that the Commission would adhere to its resolution of 
yesterday in regard to the admission of stenographers and newspaper 
men. 

General McCook gave the following names to be placed on the wit- 
ness list, to be called when visiting New York : Dr. Louis J. Stimson, 
Dr. Frank Delafield, Dr. Kinnicutt. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

J. O. Parmlee, Warren, Pa., September 28. Form 1, and name on 
witness list. 



20 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Col. llobert P.. Beatli, September 27. Form 1. 

The following- names were ordered to be placed on the witness list: 

Spencer Baldwin, jr., Fall Eiver, Mass. (Case of Robert Wremm, of 
the Eoiigli Riders.) 

Dr. Cleeman; same case. 

A. H. Buckner, Aretnriis, Fairfax County, Ya., October 1. Hefer to 
Adjutant-General. 

Thomas F. Riley, sergeant, Second ISTew York Yolunteers, Company 
C; Troy, N. Y. Form 1, and name on witness list. 

]\Iaj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, appearing before the Commission, and 
having no objection was duly sworn, and his testimony taken. (See 
transcript of same.) 

The following resolution was offered and adopted: 

Hesolred htj the Commission ajypointed by the rresidcnt to inrextigate the conduct of the 
War Deimrtmcnt in the war with Spain, That the disbursing officer of this Couiniissiou 
is authorized to uuike requisitious, when apiiroved by the presiding officer of this 
Coniuiissiou, upon the Secretary of the Treasury for so much of the funds allotted 
by the President of the United States from the appropriation for national detenso 
as may be necessary to defray the expenses of this Commission. 

Further, That said disbursing officer is authorized to pay upon proper vouchers, 
when approved by the presiding officer of the Commission, for all purchases of sup- 
plies, hire of transportation, including special sleeping and dining cars, hire of 
employees and offices, and compensation of a secretary for this Commission at the 
rate of $10 per day ; also $10 per day lor expenses to each of the nine members of 
this Commission; the compensation of the secretary, and the per diem of the mem- 
bers to iuclnde Sundays and the days of travel to and from their homes; the recorder 
and the disbursing officer being coumiissioued officers, each are to be paid from 
these funds at the rate of 7 cents per mile, when traveling with or on account of 
this Commission. Also the necessary traveling expenses and meals of the employees, 
including the secretary, when traveling with or on account of this Connnission. 
And for any further expenses not heretofore enumerated which the Commission 
may deem necessary for the proper transaction of the business recj^uired of this 
Commission. 

Prorided, The disbursing officer is not authorized to pay any compensation for 
services to the nine members, recorder, aud disbursing officer of this Connnission. 

Further, That, as suggested by the Comptroller of the United States Treasury, this 
resolution be submitted for the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, who is 
authorized by the President to have this allotment disbursed; also that it then be 
submitted to the President of the United States for his approval in accordance with 
the act of Congress in regard to the expenditure of said ap])ropriation for national 
defense. 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock p. m. 

AFTETINOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

W. E. Seball, Manhattan Club, Xew York City, October 2. Form 1, 
and name as witness. 

^Margaret H. Garrard, Bellport, Long Island, October 2. Form 1, 
and name as witness. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 21 

A. H. Conkey, Erie, Pa., inclosing letter from his son, Frank Conkey, 
September 26, Camp Meade. Form 1. 

J. G. Faxon, Boston, Mass., September 2. Form 2. 

n, N. Barrett, Xew York, September 28, inclosing statement from 
Capt. Charles H. Jones, chaplain Second New York Volunteers. Form 
1 to Barrett. Form 2 to Jones. 

Senator James H. Kyle, Cleveland, Ohio. Special answer. 

John W. Hill, Cincinnati, Ohio, September 10. Form 2. 

John E. Ilutchiugs, Danville, Va., September 26. Form 2. 

The testimony of Major-General Wheeler was continued. 

The Commission, at 4 o'clock p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock 

a. m. to-morrow, the oth instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



TENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washinf/ton, JJ. C, October 5, 1S98. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
tlie members being present, together with the secretary and recorder. 

The proceedings of tbe preceding meeting were read and approved. 

General Wilson announced that Gen. F. V. Greene, United States 
Volunteers, was in the city, and a request was made upon the Adjutant- 
General for his appearance before the Commission. General Dodge 
also called attention to the fact that Colonel Lee and Colonel Wheeler, 
(^)uartermaster's Department, and Major Gallagher, SubsistcTice Depart- 
nuMit, were passing through tbe city, and suggested that they be called 
before the Commission, and a request was made of the Adjutant-Gen- 
eral accordingly. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

Surgeon-General, regarding Lieut. Col. L. M. Maus. The Adjutant- 
General was asked to order him before the Commission. 

David Clarke, Springfield, Mass. Refer to Treasury Department. 
Acknowledged receipt. 

Keene Ryan, Danville, Ky., October 1. Form 2. 

Ira J. ITaynes, Chickamauga, Ga., October 2. Form 2, and say he 
will be protected. 

Cassius C. Brannan, band Fourth United States Cavalry. Refer to 
Adjutant General L^nited States Army. 

James M. Sullivan, Cohocton, N. Y,, October 1. Form 2, and ask 
for names of officers. 

B. Y'^. Austin, 725 North Thirty-eighth street, Philadelphia, Septem- 
ber 2(). Refer back to Secretary of War with contents noted. 

The testimony of Major-General Wheeler was then concluded. 

The Commission, at 1 o'clock, took a recess until 2 o'clock. 



22 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

Brig. Gen. H. Y. Bojnton, United States Volunteers, appearing 
before the Commission, and having no objection, was duly sworn and 
his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 
to-morrow, the Gth instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



ELEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, Octoher 6, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present, together with the secretary and recorder, j 

The proceedings of the preceding meeting were read and approved. I 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

Dr. R. A. Cushing, Sanborn, Iowa, October 3. Form 2, and name 
taken as witness. 

Q. N. Funk, New York, October 1. Form 2. 

Surgeon-General United States Army, October 5. In reply to commu- 
nication from the Commission of October 4, in relation to the Fifteenth 
Minnesota Volunteers, and inclosing report of H. R. Tilton, lieutenant- 
colonel and deputy surgeon. United States Army. Copy of the report 
to be taken and the original to be returned to the Surgeon-General. 

The testimony of General Boynton was then continued. 

At the conclusion of General Boynton's testimony the following let- 
ters were read and disposition thereof directed as herein noted : 

Samuel L. Parish, Southampton, Long Island, October 5. Form 2, 
and name as a witness. 

William R. Stewart, Delphi, Ind., October 3. Form 2. 

Max Cohen, Washington, October 5. Form 1. 

William W. Walker, M. D., Fort Sam Houston, October 2. Form 1, 
and copy for the press. 

Julian Hawthorne, for the New York Journal. Special answer. 

The New York World, October 5. Form 1, and laid upon the table. 

George G. Gross, U. S. S. Fo)ice, Philadelphia, September 24. Form 2. 

Julia Sands Wayne, Norwich, N. H., October 4. Form 1. 

George Bettesworth, Omaha, Nebr., September 28. Form 1. 

Edward A. Oldham, Washington, October 4. Form 2. Refer to the 
Adjutant-General, with request that he refer it to the proper officer 
for report. 

W. J. Carpenter, Orlando, Fla., October 3. Form 2, and extract to 
be furnished the commanding officers of the Third and Sixth Cavalry 
tor report. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 23 

E. W. King, lluutsville, Ala. Special answer. 

Kolland Adel Sperger, Camp Wikoff, October 4. Form 2. 

(ieneral Wilson read an article frojn the Washington Post of Sep- 
tember 19, 181)8, giving a statement made by Kev. Dr. Hamlin in a 
sermon. It was directed that Dr. Hamlin be uotiticd that he would be 
called before the Commission. 

W. M. Tunno, Bayview, Fla., September 28. Form 1. 
Wm. F. Mannix, first lieutenant, Third Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, 
September 28. 
The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

Maj. Gen. Fit/hngh Lee appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 

The following letters were read, and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

John Elliott Ellenwood, Lexington, Ky., October 5. Form 2, and 
name as witness for this hospital. (Special.) 

F. H. Stannard, Adams, jSTebr., September 24. Eeferred to com- 
manding officer of Second Corps, Camp Meade, Pa., with a request that 
it be investigated and reported upon. 

J. K. Keed, Oregon, 111., September 29. Eeferred to commanding 
otficer of the First Corps, with request to investigate and report. 

A. B. Deming, Washington, D. C, October 6. Form 2, 

It was directed that complaints coming from regiments in service be 
referred to the commanding officer of the corps, and he be asked to 
investigate and report thereon. 

An extract was read from the Leader- Democrat, Springfield, Mo., 
September 30. Form 2 was directed to be vsent in care of the editor. 

A clipping was noted in regard to Corpl. Will F. Irish, of the Sixth 
INIassaehusetts. Sent to Col. E. Eice, commanding Sixth Massachu- 
setts Infantry, for investigation. Form 2. 

The Commission, at 4 p. m., adjourned until 10 o'clock to-morrow, the 

7th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



TWELFTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, J). C, October 7, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., 
with all the members present, together with the secretary and recorder. 
The proceedings of the preceding day were read and approved. 



24 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The president submitted a comuiunicatioii from Surgeon-General 
Sternberg, inclosing private letters received by him. Ordered that 
names of witnesses be filed, extracts of letters made, and the orignals 
returned to the Surgeon-General. 

The president submitted another communication from the Surgeon- 
General, containing memorandum of list of medical officers. Ordered 
to be filed and a copy given to the press. 

The pi esident also submitted a letter, addressed to the Secretary of 
War, from Brig. jGren. G. S. Carpenter, United States Volunteers, 
regarding the Lafferty case. Extract of same ordered made. 

Maj. Gen. Francis V. Greene, United States Volunteers, aj^pearing 
belbre the Commission, and having no objection, was duly sworn and 
his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

Maj. Henry B. Ilersey, First United States Volunteer Cavalry, 
appearing before the Commission, and having no objection, was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

A letter was read from William Warner, Cliattanooga, Tenn., Octo- 
ber 5. Form 1 was directed to be sent, and name taken as a witness. 

The testimony of Major Hersey was then continued and concluded. 

Col. J. G. 0. Lee, assistant quartermaster-general. United States 
Army, appearing before the Commission, and having no objection, was 
duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 
to-morrow, the 8th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



THIRTEENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, October -S', 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. ra., all 
members excepting General Beaver being present. The secretary and 
recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

Ivev. T. S. Hamlin, Washington, stating that he had no personal 
knowledge upon which his sermon was preached. File. 

H. C. Whittemore, Sycamore, 111., October 5, inclosing clipping. 
File, Porto luco. (Special.) 

R. Heber Newton, Easthampton, Long Island, in which he sustains 
his statement and names witnesses who will testify. Form 2 to all 
parties named. 



MINU'J'KS OF Till'] COMMISSION. 25 

Miss Julia Chndwick, Eastlianiptoii, K Y. 

Mrs. Tlionias Fj. Manson, jr., Eastliaiiii)ton, N. Y. 

Miss D. Viola Graves, 3(50 Lexington avenue, New York City. (Head 
nurse Ward K, general hospital.) 

W. Meyer, naval station, Key West, Fla., October 3. liefer to Sec- 
retary of Navy. 

On motion of Governor Woodbury, voted that the Coinmission start 
for Camp Meade on the evening of the lOtli instant, arriving there 
Monday morning, unless the president receives infiiiniation whi(;h justi- 
fies a change of plan. 

Comnuiuication from Surgeon-General was received in regard to 
Camp Wikoft'. File with Camp Wikoff papers. 

Kev. Helen Stnart Richings, Ashley, Ohio, October 4. Form 13, and 
take luimes as witnesses at Camp Thomas. 

Maj. R. Bmmett Giffin, Medical Department, appearing before the 
Commission, and liaving no objection, was duly sworn and his testi- 
mony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The following letters were then read and disposition thereof directed 
as herein noted : 

W. T. Brown, New York, October 1. Form 2, and return letters of 
recommendation. 

A. C. Ladd, Walhemba, Mo., Company B, Third Missouri, October 2. 
liefer to Adjutant-General for investigation and report. 

Charles O, Newman, Homer, N. Y., September 30. File. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

Capt. James C. Baldridge, Subsistence Department, api)earing before 
tlte Commission, and having no objecition, was duly sworn, and his tes- 
timony taken, (See transcript of same.) 

Dr. Conner made the following motion, which was duly seconded and 
carried : 

Wlionever we summon any witnesses we shall pay them $1.50 per day and mileage 
in accordance with Army Regulations, paragraph 963: Provided, This rule will not 
apply to persons appearing voluntarily before tlie Commission. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

Maj. Henry Roraeyu, United States Army (retired). Central Valley, 
Orange County, N. Y. Form 2. 

Frank G. Coburn, Mills Hotel, New York City. Form 2. 

J. M. Blodgett, Chicago, 111. Form 1. 

J. N. Ohlivine, secretary Thirtieth Indiana Veteran Association, 
Cromwell, Ind. Form 1. 

The Commission, at 4 o'clock p. m., adjourned until 10 o'clock a. m. 
Monday, October 10. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



26 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

FOUETEENTH DAY. 

War Department, 

WasJmigton, D. C, October 10, 1808. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., 
all the members being present, together with the secretary and re- 
corder. 

The proceedings of the preceding meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

Mrs. Hugo Lange, 655 Bedford avenue, Brooklyn, N. Y., October G. 
Form 1, and copy of extract for the press. 

General Greeley, Kew York Infirmary, October 8. Keport of seven 
cases treated at the infirmary during September, 1898. Form 1, and 
file with Camp Wikolf and Seventh Infantry papers. 

Clipping from IS^ew York Times. Form 2, and referred to H. B. 
Bryan. 

Letter in regard to Dr. Taber. File. 

T. S. Newton, Muuhall, Pa., October 7. Form 1. 

J. L. Davis, 48 M street NW., Washington, D. C, October 8. Form 
1, and inform him that he will be called as a witness. Put name on 
list. 

Edwin S. Wheeler, 69 Richmond street. Station K, Boston, Mass., 
October 8. Form 1, and copy to the press. 

R. B. Leach, M. D., 9 Germania Bank Building, St. Paul, Minn., 
October 7. Form 1. 

Louis A. Stimson, 34 East Tbirty-third street. New York City, 
October 7. Form 1, and name as witness. 

W. I. Squire, Toledo, Ohio, October 7. Send half dozen of Form 2, 
and ask him to distribute them, and say that when the Commission is 
in Toledo he may be called. 

Ausburu Birdsall, Pleasantville, N. Y., October 5. Filed. 

Surgeon-General. Index, and refer to Dr. Conner to read. 

Clippings sent by the Surgeon-General. File, and to be taken with 
Commission on the trip. 

Capt. J. H. Culver, appearing before the Commission, and having no 
objection, was duly sworn, and his testimony taken. (See transcript of 
same.) 

Maj. J. n. Hysell, Medical Department, appearing before the Com- 
mission, and having no objection, was duly sworn, and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The following letters were read, and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

H. Gottschalk, 182 Wabash avenue, Chicago, 111., October 8. File 
for investigation at Chicago, also with Seventh Infantry papers. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 27 

II. J. r>rowu, Sbamion City, Iowa, September 25. Refer to Adjutant- 
General for investigation. 

H. W. Perkins. South Bend, Ind., October 5. Refer to Adjutant- 
General, to be referred to colonel and surgeon of tlie One hundred and 
fifty-seventh Indiana for report, 

Francis N^ewton, I'^asthampton, Long Island, October 3. Form 1. 
File with Moutauk evidence, and take names of witnesses. 

Henry B. Patee, M. D=, St. Louis, Mo., October 5. Form 1. 

S. n. Stout, M. D., 189 Washington avenue, Dallas, Tex., October 1. 
Form 1. 

Edward C. Towne (without date or address). Form 1. 

Surgeon-General, October 10. File, and take name of witness. 

Albert H. Oaine, 942 Summit avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio, October 5. 
Form 2. 

A. L. Braden, 301 Madison avenue, New York, October 5. Form 1, 
and refer to Chicago for investigation. 

W. Gil man Thompson, M. D., 34 Bast TJiirty first street, New York. 
Form 1, and say that he may be called upon by the Commission when 
in New York. 

J. Hiestand, Mount Morris, 111., October 3. File. 

Charlotte A. Aikens, supervising nurse, Sibley Memorial Hospital, 
Washington, D. C, October 9. Form 1, and state will be called before 
the Commission, and take name as witness. 

Nelson Hersh, New York World, October 6. File. 

J. I. C. Clarke, editor Criterion, New York, October 8. Answer, 
requesting that the copies be sent. 

The Commission, at 1 o'clock p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m., all the members 
being present, together with the secretary and recorder. 

Maj. Hugh J. Gallagher, commissary subsistence of volunteers, 
appearing before the Commission, and having no objection, was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

General Beaver offered the following resolution, which was duly 
seconded and carried: 

Whereas tlie testimony elicited by the Conimissiou appointed by the President to 
investigate the conduct of the \V:ir Department in the war with Spain seems to 
indicate that the army ration for troops in garrison serving in tropical climates can 
be materially imijroved in the way of varieties and the substitution of fruit for the 
carbon-producing portions of the present ration; and 

Whereas the expected transfer of large bodies of troops to such climates in the 
near future rendered the investigation of this subject of immediate and pressing 
importance : Thereupon, 

Ile/iolved, That the President be respectfully reciuested to take such measures as 
in his judgment may be desirable in the xiremises. 



28 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The president submitted a letter, with inclosures, from Mrs. Louise E, 
Hofraii, of Amagausett. Long Island, post-oflice box 185. File name 
on witness list 

The CommissioTi, at 4 o'clock, adjourned until 10 o'clock a. m. 

to-morrow, the lltli instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



FIFTEENTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, October 11, 1898. 

Tlie Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present, together with the secretary and recorder. 

The proi-eedings of the preceding meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

Dr. Alexander Taylor IVIitchell, Vicksburg, Miss. Form 2, and name 
as witness. 

Article from a ButYalo, N. Y., newspaper, apparently the Buffalo 
Express, being an interview by Maj. Ira C. Brown. File. 

J. B. Kenner, Chattanooga, Tenn., October 9. Special answer. 

Eeport from Surgeon General United States Army, dated October 
10, is put in evidence and marked. File with Surgeon-General papers. 

Harlam Life, October, 1808, containing letter from Chaplain Van 
de Water. File for New York. 

Lieut. W. S. Coleman, Houston, Tex., October 6, with attached news- 
paper clip])ing. Form 2. 

James Morrissey, 015 East Fifth street, Kansas City, Mo. Form 1, 
and name and address. 

The Commission then proceeded with examination of report from Sec- 
retary of War and other Department papers. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following letter was read and action taken as noted: 

Mrs. Alice Lederer, 83 High street, Newark, Ohio, October 16. 
Eeferred to Adjutant General, with request that he iurnish the infor- 
mation called for and write the lady that the letter has been put in 
the proper channel. 

The Commission then proceeded to the examination of papers sub- 
mitted by the War Department. 

Maj. Gen. Wm. M. Graham, appearing as a witness before the Com- 
mission, and having no objection, was duly sworn and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 
to morrow, the 12th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 29 

SIXTEENTH DAY. 

War Department, 

WasMnf/ton, D. C, October li^, 180S. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present, together Avith the secretary and recorder. 

The proceedings of the preceding meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters AA^ere read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

Mrs. Henry M. Thompson, 298 Pawtucket street, Lowell, Mass. 
File; answered by Governor Woodbury. 

Margaret H. Garrard, Belleport, Long Island, October 9. Form 2. 

Edgar P. Morehouse, Williamstown, Mass., October 10, with news- 
paper clipping. Form 1. 

Kev. C. T. Brady, Twelfth and Walnut streets, Philadelphia, Octo- 
ber 11. Form 1, and say he will be called as a Avitness; ask for names 
of such surgeons and others as would be of service to the Commission; 
file with a reference to Major Hysell's testimony. 

J. A. Munay, Malone, N. Y., October 6. Referred to Adjutant-Gen- 
eral United States Army, asking him to refer it for investigation. 

The testimony of General Graham Avas then continued. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The taking of the testimony of General Graham was resumed and 
concluded. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

W. Clark Marshall, 6653 Harvard avenue, Chicago, October 4. 
Form 2. 

Report from the Surgeon-General's Office containing letters from 
Mrs. M. L. Tanner, with other letters. Special answer. 

Report from the Surgeon-General's Oftice on letter of Maj. Charles 
Gaudy, together with other papers. Special answer, and put name of 
Francis L. Oswell on witness list. 

SurgcouGeneral, October 11 (inclosing communications). File. 

George W. Allen, Freeport, Long Island, October 10. Form 1. 

Charles B. Welles, 16 Grammercy Park, New York, October 10, 
Special answer. 

John Sweet, Owosso, Mich., October 10. Form 1, and refer to 
Adjutant-General. 

The Commission, at 4 o'clock p. m., adjonrned until 10 o'clock a. m. 
to-morrow, the 13th instant. 

S. C. IMlLLS, Recorder. 



30 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH 8PAIN. 

SEVENTEENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
WasMngton, D. C, October 13, 1898. 

The Couimission met pursuaut to adjouruinent at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present except General Wilson. The secretary and 
recorder were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

Luie Burtis (sworn statement). Referred to Adjutant-General United 
States Army. 

E. B. Roosevelt, October 12. Special answer. 

Surgeon-General, October 13. Filed. 

Rev. George Zurcher, Buffalo, N. Y., October 12. Form 1. 

Letters were received in answer to Form 2 from the following parties: 

Wilson A. Sawyer, Saratoga Springs, N. Y., October 10. 

Charles H. Jones, Bayonue, N. J., October 11. 

On motion of Governor Woodbury it was voted that the president of 
the Commission be authorized to give out for iiublication such portion 
of the Adjutant-General's reports as he considered should be published. 

Lieut. Col. John Van R. Hoff, Medical Department, appearing before 
the Commission, and having no objection, was duly sworn and his tes- 
timony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following Letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

Edward Atkinson, Boston, Mass., October 12. Special answer by 
General Dodge. 

Surgeon-General United States Armj^ October 13. Filed. 

The Commission, at 4 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 
to-morrow, the 14th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTEENTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, I). 6\, October 14, 1898. ■ 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., with 

all the members present with the exception of General Wilson. The 

secretary and recorder were also present. 
The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 31 

The followiug letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

C. E. Kuth, major and brigade surgeon, Keokuk, Iowa, October 11. 
Form 1, and special. 

Surgeon-General United States Army, inclosing letter from Col. 
Charles H. Alden, containing answers to interrogatories propounded to 
him, October 13. File. 

Eussell A. Alger, October 13, inclosing answers to interrogatories 
propounded to the Adjutant General of the Army. File. 

Adjt. Gen. H. C. Corbin, October 13, inclosing list of quartermas- 
ters and commissaries. File. 

Francis L. Hill, chairman relief committee New York Society of the 
Order of Founders and Patriots of America, Wilmington, Del. (two let- 
ters), October 12. {a) Referring to sickness of troops at Jacksonville. 
File for Jacksonville, (h) Reply to letter of September 23. File. 

A. Hartsuff, deputy surgeon-general, United States Army, Chicago, 
111., October 12. Special. 

J. Foster Stanton, Salem, Mass., October 8. Form 1, and file. 

Howard L. Pyles, Wilmington, Del., October 13. Form 1, and refer 
to Adjutant-General. 

John D. Long, Secretary of Navy, October 13. Form 1, and special 
answer. 

Maj. Louis Livingston Seaman, surgeon. First United States Volun- 
teer Engineers, appearing as a witness before the Commission, he was 
asked whether he had objection to being sworn. He re^^piested to be 
affirmed, and accordingly made the affirmation. The witness requested 
permission to have a i^ersonal friend present during the examination 
on account of ill condition of witness. The Commission, after going 
into executive session to consider the question, decided that the request 
of the witness be granted. Major Seaman's testimony was then taken, 
but not concluded. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.30, took a recess until 2 o'clock p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted : 

George Ashbridge, 709 Walnut street, Philadelphia, Pa., October 13. 
Acknowledged, saying statement received and the Adjntaut-CJeneral 
has been asked to have an investigation made; then refer to Adjutant- 
General for investigation. Name as witness, and also Dr. Wales. 

Surgeon-General, October 11. File. 

The Commission then continued taking the testimony of Major Sea- 
man, which was concluded. 

Lieut. F. K. Hill, United States Navy, appearing as a witness, and 
having no objection, was duly swoi'u and his testimony taken. (See 
transcript of same.) 



32 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OP WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The followiug letters were then read aud disposition thereof directed 
as herein noted : 

S. A. Davenport, Erie, Pa., September 26. File. 

Gen. Charles P. Ea^^an, October 14. File. 

Mrs. Sarah A. Sawyer, Jacksonville, Fla., October 8. Form 1, and 
file with Camp Cuba Libre papers. 

Eobert B. Hunt, Chattanooga, Teun., October 10. Form 1, and file 
with Camp Thomas papers. 

Lieut. Col. A. D. Keeves, Epsom Springs, Tenn., October 6. Form 1. 

Jesse H. Jones, Halifax, Plymouth County, Mass., October 12. 
Form 1. 

Mrs. Margaret H. Garrard, Belleport, Long Island, October 13. Form 
1, and file with Camp Wikoff" papers. 

Gen. H. C. Corbin, in re General Arnold, October 13. File. 

Secretary of the Kavy, October 11. File. 

The Commission adjourned to meet Sunday afternoon on board train, 
unless sooner called together by the president. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



mNETEENTH DAY. 

On Train en route to Jacksonville, Fla., 

October 17, 1S98. 

The Commission met at 9 o'clock a. m. on the train en route to Jack- 
sonville, Fla., all the members and the recorder being present. 

The following letters were read and disposition thereof directed as 
herein noted: 

Maj. Gen. H. C. Merriam, San Francisco, Cal., October 6, in answer 
to letter of Colonel Denby, vice-president, of September 29. File, aud 
refer to Manila. 

Mahlon Pitney, M. C, October 10, in re Miss M. H. Garrard, inclosing 
letter from her. File for Camp Wikoflf. 

A. D. Maxwell, Montezuma, Ga., October 13. Pvefer to Tampa sub- 
committee. 

It was moved and carried that the president of the Commission ap- 
point two committees, of two members each, one to visit Tampa, Fla., 
and one to visit Fenian dina, Fla. 

The president appointed the following subcommittees to visit the 
brigades of the respective divisions at Camp Cuba Libre: 

First Brigade: Colonel Denby, Dr. Conner, Colonel Sexton. 

Second Brigade: General McCook, Governor Woodbury, Captain 
Howell. 

Third Brigade: General Wilson, General Beaver, General Dodge. 

The Commission arrived at Jacksonville, Fla., at 12,30 p. m., and 
devoted the afternoon to inspecting Camp Cuba Libre. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 33 



TWENTIETH DAY. 



Jacksonville, Fla., October 18, 1898. 

The Commission met at 9 o'clock a. m. 

Present, all members except General Wilson and Captain Howell, 
who were absent on dnty as a subcommittee visiting Fernandiua, Fla. 
The recorder was also present. 

Lieut. Col. L. M. Maus, chief surgeon Seventh Army Corps, appearing 
before the Commission, and having no objection, was duly sworn and 
his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

At the conclusion of Colonel Maus's testimony the Commission took a 
recess until 1.30 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 1.30 p. m. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see trans- 
cripts of same) : Lieut. Col. O. E. Wood, chief commissary Seventli Army 
Corps; Capt. C. B.Baker, Acting Quartermaster Volunteers; Lieut. 
Col. Curtis Guild, inspector-general Seventh Army Corps. 

The Commission took a recess until 8 p. m. 

EVENINa SESSION. 

At 8 o'clock p. m. the Commission reassembled, all the members being 
present, General Wilson and Captain Howell having returned from 
Fernandiua at 5.30 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objections, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
scripts of same): Col. Wiley Jones, Second South Carolina Infantry; 
Lieutenant-Colonel Thompson, Second South Carolina Infantry; Lieu- 
tenant Davis, Second South Carolina Infantry; Lieutenant Tompkins, 
Second South Carolina Infantry; Captain Herbert, Second South Caro- 
lina Infantry; Sergeant McBwan, Company B, Second South Caroliiui 
Infantry; Sergeant Mooney, Company II, Second South Carolina Infan- 
try; Private Brodie, Company A, Second South Carolina Infantry. 

The Commission, at 10.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. 

to-morrow, the 19th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



TWENTY-FIRST DAY. 

Jacksonville, Fla., October 19^ 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present except General McCook and ('olonel Sexton, 
who were absent on duty as a subcommittee visiting Tampa, Fla. The 
recorder was also present. 
7833— VOL. 1 3 



34 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

It was moved and carried that — 

Whereas it is expedient that one commissioner should be in Washington to attend 

to the business of the board: Therefore, 

Besolrcd, That the president of this board be requested to detail one commissioner 
for the al)0ve purpose. 

The president aimouuced that, iu accordance with the resolution, he 
would detail Colonel Denby as the commissioner to proceed to Washing- 
ton. 

General Wilson submitted the report of the subcommittee, consisting 
of himself and Captain Howell, which visited Fernaudina. The report 
was accompanied by certificate of county clerk as to ownership of land 
used as camp site and map showing location of camps. 

The following is the report : 

Jacksonville, Fla., October 19, 1898. 
Hon. G. M. Dodge, 

President Connnission to Investigate the Condtiet of the 

War Department during the War ivith Spain, 

Sir: In compliance with the instructions of the Commission, we have the honorto 
report that we visited Fernaudina, Fla., on the 18th instant, and made a careful and 
critical inspection of the site occupied as a camji by the troops lately stationed at 
that town, and found the conditions to be as follows : 

The Florida Central and Peninsular Railroad, leading into Fernaudina, is a well- 
equipped one-track road, with sidings at the town, amounting in all to about 2 
miles. Its facilities for receiving and delivering troops appeared to be very good. 

The facilities for embarking and disembarking troops by water are also very good, 
there being a dock front over a half mile long, with a minimum low-water depth 
over the bar at the mouth of the harbor of not less than 17 feet and a rise of tide of 
6 feet. 

The location of the camp is excellent, probably quite equal to any site for the 
purpose that could have been selected on the Florida coast; the ground is rolling, 
its maximum elevation abput 60 feet above the level of the sea, with no swamp 
except a tidal salt marsh beyond the highest ground ; the sea bathing facilities are 
excellent. 

We visited and walked over a large portion of the area occupied by the troojis, 
and although there had been a severe storm the night before our arrival, the ground 
was practically dry. 

We carefully examined the site of the camp of the Third Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
which it has been reported was a tropical jungle, worthless land until cleaTed, and 
upon which it has been said the troops worked like slaves to clear it until it was fit 
for camping. While your comujittee can not state the condition of this land when 
the troops arrived, it found no appearance of a tropical jungle here or in the vicinity. 
There were no evidences of there having been serious work in preparing the camps, 
although, as is usual, there were small bushes, vines, low palms, etc., scattered here 
and there over the camp site and the adjacent land. Altogether, the committee was 
most favorably impressed with the character of the site selected. 

We were informed that it had been occupied by about 16,000 troops. 

We visited and obtained from the county clerk of Nassau County, Fla., Mr. George 
E. Woltf, a map showing the laud occupied by the troops and his official certificate 
as to the ownership of the land. This certiticate states that the greater part of the 
lands occupied reverted to the State of Florida in June, 1897, by reason of unpaid 
taxes, and that no one by the name of Alger ever controlled any lands in the county 
of Nassau, as shown by the records, and that the laud occupied by the Third Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers at Fernaudina as a camp was at the time the projjerty of the 
State of Florida. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 35 

The distance of the site of the ciimp from town is from 1 to 1^ miles. The water 
was piped, without expenditure to the camp, fi'om Fornandina, being from an 
artesian well about 600 feet deep; the supply was unlimited. The water had a 
slight sulphur taste, which, it is said, some of the troops disliked, and consequently 
occasionally used surface water. 

The locatious of the hospitals, as pointed out to us, were on high ground, well 
drained, and apparently well selected. 

The time the site was occupied by troops was from July 21 to August 15 ; in all, 
about three weeks. 

The mayor of Feruaudina informed us that Major Hendley, the surgeon in charge 
of the camp, had stated to him just before the troops left that the number of sick 
was 540. Your committee therefore has the honor to report that, in its opinion, the 
camp was well selected ; that probably the site was equal in all respects to any 
other that could have been found on the Florida coast ; that from the information 
they obtained and what they saw it was far from being a tropical jungle, and 
that the certificate of the county clerk indicates that no Government ofScial was 
interested in the land, and that the amount of work done in clearing the under- 
brush was no greater than might have been expected at almost any locality in the 
South selected for camping purposes; that the site was well drained, the water 
for drinking and cooking purposes good, and the bathing facilities at the sea beach 
excellent. 

Very respectfully, John M. Wilson, 

Brig. Gen., Chief of Engineers, U. S. A. 
Evan P. Howell. 
Statk of Florida, County of Nassau: 

I, George E. Wolff, clerk circuit court and custodian of public records in and for 
Nassau County, Fla., hereby certify that I have carefully searched the public records 
of said county, and find that R. A. Alger does not own or control, directly or indi- 
rectly, any land on the island of Amelia, Nassau County, Fla. 

I further certify that the records show that fee-simple title to the lauds lately 
occupied by the military camps at Feruandina, as indicated by map hereto attached 
and made a part of this certificate (red lines of said map indicating water pipes of 
said camp), are vested in the several persons and corporations as follows: Feruan- 
dina Development Company, Florida Town Improvement Company, S. A. Swann, 
S. D. Swanu,Fred.W.Haward, A.T.Williams, W.C.Ynlee, P. Edwards, M. B. Self, 
W. H. Hendricks, Mrs. D. M. Hammond. That I further certify that the greater 
part of said lands, as indicated by green coloring on said map, reverted to the State 
of Florida June, 1897, by reason of unpaid State and county taxes for the years 1895, 
1896. 

I further certify that no one by the name of Alger ever owned or controlled any 
lands in said county of Nassau, as shown by the records ; and, further, that tlie lauds 
occupied by the Third Pennsylvania Volunteer Regiment at Feruandina as camp 
was at the time property of the State of Florida, having reverted to the State for 
unpaid taxes previous to its occupation as such camp. 

Witness my hand and official seal this 18th day of October, 1898. 

Geokoe E. Wolff, 
Clei-k Circuit Court, Nassau County, Fla. 

A true copy : 
S. C. Mills, 

Major, Inspector-General, United Slates Army. 

State op Florida, Nassau County: 

I, L. Beugnet, clerk of the county judge's court in and for the county aforesaid, 
certify that I have examined the death record of the city of Feruandina, Fla., and 
that during the month of July, 1898 (the month of the arrival of the United States 
troops), I find only two deaths of record in said city among the residents thereof, 
to wit: Henry H. Linville (white), age 67 years, and Charley Brown (colored), age 



36 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

13 years. The tirst named died of sunstroke and the last named of pulmonary 
tuberculosis, according to said records. 

Witness my hand and seal at Fernandina, Fla., this 20th day of October, A. D. 
1898. 

[SEAL.] L. BEUGNBT, 

Clerk of the County Judge's Court in and for the County of Nassau, Fla. 

Fernandina, Fla., Octoier 19, 1898. 

I, Samuel A. Swann, as owner and as agent for the Fernandina Development Com- 
pany and for sundry individual owners of propei'ty covering the entire grounds 
upon which the troops of the United States have recently been encamped near the 
city of Fernandina, do hereby certify that the title in and to about two-thirds of 
all said lauds was in said development company until recently acquired by the State 
under tax certificates, and that remainder of said lands are now owned by mc or 
by parties for whom I am agent; aud I further certify that no part or interest in 
any of the grounds covered by the military encampment, or outside of same, on 
Amelia Island, was ever bargained, sold, or leased to Alger (son of the Sec- 
retary of War), or to anyone in his interest; and that no consideration whatever 
was charged to the Government, or received by any owner, for the use of the prop- 
erty, or was the property in any way benefited by the cutting away of the growth 
found necessary for the comfort aud health of the troops, but rather the destruction 
of all young trees does prejudicially affect the sale of the suburban lots which have 
been denuded of all shade trees and other growth. 

I further certify that the parties I represent would be glad to interest Mr. Alger 
or anyone else in the development of the grounds in question, and would thank the 
Herald's brilliant correspondent to interest some such parties in the purchase of a 
part or the whole of it. 

Saml. a. Swann, 
For Self, and as Agent for the Fernandina Development Company, and Others. 

It was moved and carried that a copy of the report of the committee 
be furnished to the mayor of Fernandina, to Mrs. S. 0. F. Hallowell, 
Philadelphia, Pa., and to the press, and that the disbursing officer 
repay to the members of the committee the expenditures incurred by 
them in procuring the maps and the certificate. 

The Commission then began taking testimony. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same) : Maj. Noble H. Creager, quartermaster. United States Volun- 
teers; Col. James E. Campbell, I^inth Illinois Infantry; Lieut. Simeon 
Mowre, Ninth Illinois Infantry; Lieut. John H. Tolliver, Ninth Illinois 
Infantry; Sergt. John L. Lay, Ninth Illinois Infantry; Maj. Eoyce D. 
Fry, Medical Department. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m., when the following 
witnesses appeared, and having no objection were duly sworn and 
their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Col. William G. Dowes. 
Forty-ninth Eegiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry; Gen. Edward B. Wil- 
liston, IJnited States Volunteers; Lieut. Edward A.Millar, Sixth Artil- 
lery, aide to General Williston; Lieut. Charles T. Menoher, Sixth 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 37 

Artillery, aide to General Willistou; Lieut. A. U. Macliemer, Forty- 
uiutli Iowa N'oluiiteers; Private Thorpe, Company J3, Forty ninth Iowa 
Volunteers; Sergt. A. S. Hartell, quartermaster sergeant Company H, 
Second Louisiana; Private H. G. Meyer, Company H, Second Louisiana 
Volunteers. 
The Commission adjourned to meet at 10 o'clock a. m. to-morrow, the 

20th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBOOMMITTEE— GENERAL M'COOK AND COLONEL SEXTON. 

Tampa, Fla., October 19, 1898. 

The following witnesses appeared before the committee, and having 

no objections were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 

of same) : Oapt. K. L. Brown, George W. Few, Capt. C. C. McCullock, jr., 

Col. J. B. Anderson. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



TWENTY-SECOND DAY. 

Jacksonville, Fla., October 20, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 o'clock a. m., all 
members being present, save Colonel Denby, who had departed for 
Washington in accordance with the resolution of yesterday. The 
recorder was also present. 

General McCook and Colonel Sexton returned from Tampa at 7 a. m. 

The proceedings of the last three days were read, amended, and 
approved as amended. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Miss Annie Bobbins, head nurse. First Division hospital; 
Miss Mary E. Walker, nurse. First Division hospital; Miss Mattie E. 
Hibbard, head nurse. Second Division hospital; Miss Florence M. 
Maurice, ward nurse. Second Division hospital ; Miss Edna Copeland, 
head nurse. Third Division hospital; Miss Isabella G. Waters, w-ard 
nurse, Third Division hospital; Maj. James E. Pilcher, surgeon. United 
States Army; Capt, J. W. Swatek, Second Illinois Infantry; Sergt. 
A. F. Loreuzen, Company L, Second Illinois Infantry. 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock p. m. 

AFTEENOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

Col. G. W. Taylor, Fourth Virginia Infantry, and Lieut. H. M. :Mor- 
row. Third Nebraska, appearing as witnesses, and having no objecticm, 
were duly sworn and their testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

Col. William J. Bryan, Third Nebraska, appeared before the Com- 



38 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

mission at the request of the Commission. The president stated he 
would read the scope of the inquiry. Here Colonel Bryan made a 
request that, for reasons which could be understood, he would prefer 
that the testimony for his regiment should be given by the lieutenant- 
colonel of the regimeut. The Commission acceded to his request, and 
Colonel Bryan withdrew. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Col. 
Winiield T. Durbin, One hundred and sixty-first Indiana Infantry; 
Lieutl E. W. Jones, Fourth Virginia Infantry; Private Allen O. White, 
Fourth Virginia Infantry; Col. Letcher Hardeman, Sixth Missouri 
Infantry; Dr. Alexander Kent, Washington, D. C, agent for Red 
Cross; Private W. W. Kirksey, First Division hospital corps; Pri- 
vate Samuel C. Thompson, Company B, Third Nebraska Infantry; 
Lieut. Anson G. Freeman, One hundred and sixty-first Indiana Infon- 
try; Private Abraham T, Marks, One hundred and sixty first Indiana 
Infantry, Company F; Lieut. James R. Paurie, Sixth Missouri Infan- 
try; Private James T. James, Compauy B, Sixth Missouri. Infantry; 
Lieut. Col. Victor Vifquaiu, Third Nebraska Infantry. 

The Commission adjourned until evening. , 

EVENING SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 8 o'clock p. m. 

Mrs. E. E. Marshall, Jacksonville, Fla„ appeared as a witness, and 
having no objection, was duly sworn and her testimony taken. (See 
transcript of same.) 

Mrs. Ellen Lawson Babb attended as a friend of Mrs. Marshall, and 
being asked by the Commission a few questions, made a short state- 
ment, not under oath. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 9 o'clock j). m., adjourned to meet at Atlanta 
to-morrow, the 21st instant, leaving Jacksonville at 10 p. m. 

S. 0. Mills, Eecorder. 



TWENTY-THIRD DAY. 

Atlanta, Ga., October 21, 1898. 

The Commission arrived at Atlanta, Ga., at 10 a. m., and at 11 a. ra. 
proceeded to Fort McPherson, Ga., where the Commission inspected 
the general hospital at that post. The Commission, for the purpose of 
inspection, was divided into three subcommittees. 

The Commission met on board the train at 2 o'clock p. m., all mem- 
bers being present save Colonel Denby and Captain Howell. The 
recorder was also present. 

The proceedings of the previous day were read and approved. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 39 

MaJ. Blair D. Taylor, surgeon, I'liited States Army, aud Cliai)laiii 
O. J. Nave, Uuited States Army, appeariug as witnesses, aud having 
no objections, were duly sworn and their testimony taken. (See trans- 
scrii^t of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.20 p. m., sdjourued to meet to-morrow, the -;2d 
instant, at Auniston, Ala. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



TWEi^TY-FOURTH DAY. 

Anniston, Ala., October 32, 1898. 

The Commission arrived in Anniston, Ala., the night of the 21st 
instant and devoted the morning of the22d to inspecting the camp and 
the hospitals, being divided for this purpose into subcommittees. 

The Commission met at 2 o'clock p. m., all members being present 
except Colonel Denby and Captain Howell. The recorder was also 
present. 

It was moved and carried that the hours of meeting of the Commis- 
sion while on the trip shall be from 9 a. m. to 12.30 p. m., and from 2 
p. m. to 5 p. m. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Brig. Gen. Koyal T. Frank, United States Volunteers; 
Maj. H. F. Hoyt, surgeon. United States Volunteers. 

The Commission, at o.lo p. m., adjourned to meet Monday morning, 
the 24th instant, at 1) o'clock a. m. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



TWENTY FIFTH DAY. 

Anniston, Ala., October 24, 1898. 

The Commission met at 9 o'clock a. m., all members being present 
save Colonel Denby aud Captain Howell. The recorder was also pres- 
ent. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same) : Maj. O. H. Falk, quartermaster. United States 
Volunteers, Third Army CorjDs; Maj. C. M. Drake, surgeon, United 
States Volunteers; Maj. J. H. Heatwole, commissary, United States 
Volunteers; Maj. David Vickers, inspector-general, United States Vol- 
unteers. 

A letter from Major Seaman, surgeon. First United States Volun- 
teer Engineers, was read and ordered filed. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p.m. 



40 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OP WAR WITH SPAIN. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Coimnission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following- witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same): Lieut. Col. Wm. H. Bisbee, First United States 
Infantry; Maj. Chas. A. Dempsey, Second United States Infantry; 
Cai)t. John K. Waring, Second United States Infantry; Lieut. William 
J. Lutz, Second United States luftiutry; J. U. A. Feltus, quartermas- 
ter sergeant. First United States Infantry; Sergt. Otto Katz, First 
United States Infantry; Joseph Stahl, quartermaster-sergeant, Second 
United States Infantry; Private Crockett Hounshell, Company D, 
Second United States Infantry; Col. Eobert L. Bullard, Third Ala- 
bama Volunteer Infantry; Col. H. M. Seaman, Fourth Wisconsin Vol- 
unteer Infantry; Col. J. P. Fyfife, Third Tennessee Volunteer Infantry. 

The Commission, at 5.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 9 a. m. to morrow, 
the 25th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



TWENTY-SIXTH DAY. 

Anniston, Ala., October 35, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at I) o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present save Colonel Denby and Captain Howell. 
The recorder was also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same): E. D. Boss, acting assistant surgeon; Lieut. F. 
Ellis Eeed, Fourth Wisconsin Volunteers; Colonel Fyffe, Third Ten- 
nessee Volunteers, (additional testimony); Lieut. Wm. T. West, Third 
Alabama Volunteers; Lieut. George J. Haley, Third Tennessee Volun- 
teers; Private Fountain Ragland, Third Alabama Volunteers; Private 
Edward Simmons, Third Alabama Volunteers; Private H. C. Lemke, 
Fourth Wisconsin Volunteers; Major Heatwole, chief commissary 
(recalled); Col. David G. Colson, Fourth Kentucky Volunteers; Lieut. 
Col. Deliosey 0. Cabell, Second Arkansas Volunteers; Capt. Samuel S. 
Sample, United States Signal Corps; Private Perry W. Williams, 
Fourth Wisconsin Volunteers; Sergt. Kobert S. Hilton, Second Ten 
nessee Volunteers; W. Nathan Langstou, private. Third Tennessee 
Volunteers. 

At 12.30 1). m. the Commission went into executive session. It was 
moved and carried that so far as the character of an officer is con- 
cerned the Commission confine itself to the personal knowledge of the 
facts coming within the witness's observation 

The Commission took a recess until 2 p. m. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 41 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 p. m. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same) : George A. Lee, quartermaster-sergeant, Second 
Arkansas Volunteers; Private David Bottoms, Company H, Second 
Arkansas Volunteers; Samuel H. Hurst, quartermaster-sergeant, 
Fourth Kentucky Volunteers; Private Jordan B. Gross, Company H, 
Fourth Kentucky Volunteers; Maj. F. B. Kenyon, surgeon Fourth 
Kentucky Volunteers ; Maj. Charles F.King, Fourth Wisconsin Vol- 
unteers; Henry H. Lee, surgeon First Vermont Volunteers; Lieut. 
Col. Frank M. Caldwell, Fourth Wisconsin Volunteers; General Frank 
(recalled); Maj. Harry O. Benson, inspector-general of Volunteers; 
Maj. Charles L.Woodbury, United States Volunteer Engineers; Major 
Benson (recalled); Capt. Francis P. Fremont, Second United States 
Infantry. 

The Commission adjourned to meet at Huntsville, Ala., to-morrow, 
the 2Gth instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



TWENTY-SEVENTH DAY. 

Huntsville, Ala., October 26, 1898. 

The Commission arrived at Huntsville, Ala., at 6.30 a. m., and met 
at 10 a. m. with all members present on the trip. The recorder was 
also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same) : Gen. Louis H. Carpenter, United States Volunteers ; 
Maj. Charles M. Gandy, brigade surgeon; Gen. G. S. Carpenter, United 
States Volunteers. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. The recorder was 
absent by authority of the Commission. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn, and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Lieut. 
Col. C. H. Grierson, chief commissary, United States Volunteers; Capt. 
E. W. Thompson, commissary subsistence, United States Volunteers; 
Capt, G. S. Oartwright, assistant quartermaster. United States Volun- 
teers; Dr. John H. Stone, first lieutenant, assistant surgeon. Sixteenth 
Infantryj Lieut. C. L. Farnsworth, Seventh United States Infantry; 



42 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Maj. H, S. T. Harris, chief vsurgeoii, United States Volunteers; Maj. 
H. D. Thomason, surgeon Thirty-third Michigan Volunteers. 

The Commission, at 5 p. m., adjourned to meet at 9 a. m. Thursday, 
day, the 27th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



TWENTY-EIGHTH DAY. 

HuNTSViLLE, Ala., October 27, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9 a. m., all members 
on the trip being present. The recorder, Major Mills, was absent, 
siclv en route to Washington by authority of the Commission. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Capt. Charles M. Augur, assistant quartermaster. United 
States Volunteers; Capt. Gilbert I. CuUen, assistant surgeon, First 
Ohio Volunteers; Col. Edward Duffy, Sixty-ninth New York Volun- 
teers; Capt. Charles D. Parkhurst, Second United States Artillery; 
Lieut. John Conklin, Second United States Artillery; Maj. Thomas C. 
Lebo, Sixth United States Cavalry; Capt. John F. Stretch, Tenth 
United States Infantry; Q. M. Sergt. Daniel J. Kevins, Company A, 
Sixty-ninth N^ew York Volunteers; Private Patrick J. Finan, Com- 
pany B, Sixty-ninth New York Volunteers. 

The Commission took a recess at 12.30 p. m. until 8 p. m. The after- 
noon was spent inspecting the camps and hospitals. 

EVENING SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 8 o'clock p. m. 

Charles M. Lee, surgeon, appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection was duly sworn, and his testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 

The Commission, at 9.30 p. m., adjourned to meet Friday morning for 
inspection of Camp Thomas and hospitals. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



TWENTY-NINTH DAY. 

Chattanooga, Tenn., October 28, 1898. 

The Commission arrived at Chattanooga at 5 a. m., and left at 8.30 
a.m. for Chickamauga Park, where the day was spent in inspecting the 
camp and hospitals. 

The Commission met at 5 p. m. and resumed taking testimony. 

Maj. K. E. GifQn, surgeon, Sternberg Hospital (recalled), and Charles 
F. Craig, acting assistant surgeon, Sternberg Hospital, appearing as 



• MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 43 

wituesses, and having no objection, were duly sworn and their testi- 
mony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at G.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 9 o'clock to- 
morrow morning, Saturday, the 29th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTIETH DAT. 

Chattanooga, Tenn., October 29, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9 o'clock a. m., all 
the members being present except Colonel Denby and Captain Howell. 
Governor Woodbury made the following motion: 

That after the business is transacted here at Chattanooga, the president, General 
Dodge, and Commissioners Conner and Sexton, proceed to Lexington, Ky., Cincin- 
nati, Chicago, and such other points as they may deem best, for the purpose of 
examination of camps and taking testimony, and when they have completed the 
work to proceed to Washington. 

The motion was duly seconded and carried. 
Dr. Conner made the following motion: 

That Governor Woodbury be instructed to proceed to Burlington, Vt., and such 
other places en route as may be necessary to visit, and make such examinations as 
are required. 

Motion was duly seconded and carried. 

General Wilson moved that during the absence of General Dodge, 
General McCook act as temporary chairman; this motion was duly 
seconded and carried. 

General Wilson then moved that Colonel Jones act in the place of 
Major Mills until the Commission returned to Washington; this motion 
was duly seconded and carried. 

Governor VV oodbury moved that the representatives of the daily press 
of Chattanooga be admitted during the taking of testimony; and the 
same being approved, it was so ordered. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Maj. Edward T. Comegys, surgeon and medical purveyor; 
Lieut. James M. Arrasmith, Second United States Infantry; Dr. A. W. 
Boyd; Dr. G. A. Baxter; J. C. Howell, station master, Central Station, 
Cliattanooga; Capt. D. E. McCarthy, assistant (juartermaster. United 
States Army; Edward E. Betts, engineer, Chickamauga Park. 

The Commission went into executive session, and President Dodge 
read a letter from Dr. Taber, of Kew Orleans, and stated to the Com- 
mission that he would write to Dr. Taber, inviting him to Washington, 
where his testimony would be taken. 

The Commission took a recess until 2 j). m. 



44 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following witncvsses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Ira J. 
Hains, hospital nurse; Capt. M. G. Zaliuski, assistant quartermaster, 
United States Army; Dr. F. B. Stapp; Lieutenant Arrasmith (recalled). 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 8 p. m. As no 
witnesses appeared at that time, no testimony was taken. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 

Colonel Denby, sitting as a subcommittee in Washington, D. C, took 
the testimony of Maj. Gen. A. R. Chaffee, United States Volunteers, on 
the 29th day of October, 1898. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTY-FIRST DAY. 

Knoxville, Tenn., October 31, 1898. 

The Commission arrived at Knoxville Sunday morning, the 30th 
instant. Monday uiorniug the Commission divided into subcommittees 
and inspected Camp Poland and the hospitals. At 1.30 p. m. the Com- 
mission met and resumed the taking of testimony, all members on the 
trip being present. The acting recorder was also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same): Maj. O. F. Martin, chief surgeon First Brigade, 
Second Division, First Army Corps; Maj. Park L. Myers, surgeon 
Sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; F. K. Huger, superintendent Southern 
Railway, Knoxville Division; Capt. Bldridge W. White, Thirty-first 
Michigan Volunteers; Col. Fred Shubel, Lieutenant-Colonel Thirty- 
first Michigan Volunteers; Col. Geo. Le R. Brown, Fourth Tennessee 
Volunteers; Lieut. Col. Richard C. Croxton, Sixth Virginia Volunteers. 

The Commission, at 5.30 p. m., adjourned, and left for Washington 

at G p. m. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 

Colonel Denby, sitting as a subcommittee in Washington, D. C, took 
the testimony of Maj. Gen. H. W. Lawton, United States Volunteers, 
on the 31 st day of October, 1898. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF 8UB00MMIITEE— GENERAL DODGE, COLONEL SEXTON, AND DR. CONNER. 

Lexington, Ky., October 31, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sw'orn and their testimony taken (see transcript 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 45 

of same) : Maj. Gen. James H. Wilson, United States Volunteers; Capt. 
Charles E. Golding, Col. F. D. Baldwin, Benjamin Johnson, Col. T. W. 
Jones, Lieut. Col. J. M. Marshall, Gen. J. C. Bates, Maj. E. A. Mearns, 
Col. William A. Pew, jr.. Col. R. W. Leonard, Col. W. K. Caffie, Col. 
Thomas J. Smith, Col. L>. Mitchell, Lieut. Col. R. W. Banks. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



Lexington, Ky., November 1, 1898. 
The following witnesses appeared before the committee, and having 
no objection they were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Maj. John J. Bachman, One hundred and sixtieth 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry; Maj. J. D. Glennan, brigade surgeon; Maj. 
William Coggswell, surgeon. Eighth Massachusetts Volunteers; Capt. 
G. B. Duncan, assistant adjutant general; Capt. T. C. Chalmers, acting 
surgeon. Twelfth IS'ew York Volunteers; Lieut. Col. James Parker, 
Twelfth ^'^ew York Volunteers; Lieut. Frank L. Strange, Third Ken- 
tucky Volunteers; Lieut. Charles F. Wonson, quartermaster, Eighth 
Massachusetts Volunteers; Keeue Ryan, private. Signal Corps; David 
F. Magner, quartermaster sergeant, Eighth Massachusetts Volunteers; 
John Hoag, sergeant. Twelfth New York Volunteers ; William F. Logan, 
sergeant, Second Missouri Volunteers ; W. F. Hunter, private. Twelfth 
New York Volunteers; George G. Cook, private. Second Missouri Vol- 
unteers; William K. Twohig, private. Company C, Third Kentucky 
Volunteers; John L. Linguist, private. Eighth Massachusetts Vol- 
unteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



THIRTY SECOND DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, November 3, 1898. 

The Commission arrived in Washington, D. C, Tuesday morning, 
November 1, at 10 a. m., having left Knoxville, Tenn., at 6 p. m. Mon- 
day, October 31. 

The Commission met at 10 a. m. November 2. Present, General 
McCook, acting chairman; General Wilson, General Beaver, Colonel 
Denby, and Captain Howell. 

The secretary and acting recorder were also present. 

Captain Howell moved that a subcommittee of three be appointed to 
visit Camp Meade for the purpose of inspecting the camp and hospitals 
and to secure such testimony as might be available; motion duly sec- 
onded and carried, and General Wilson, General Beaver, and Captain 
Howell were appointed as such committee. 



46 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The followiug letters were read and disposition thereof directed (see 
file): Mrs. Ella Anderson, 12G East Twelfth street, New York City; 
Elizabeth Eoland, Baltimore, Md. ; N. B. Myers, Huutsville, Ala.; C. 
Keyuolds, 147 Ellison street, Paterson, IST. J. 

Maj. Henry Romeyn, United States Army (retired), correspondent, 
appeared before the Commission as a witness, and having no objection 
he was dnly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., adjourned, to meet to-morrow morn- 
ing, the 3d instant, at 10 o'clock. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GENERAL BODGE, COLONEL SEXTON, DR. CONNER. 

Lexington, Ky., Novemher 2, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Brig. Gen. J. P. Sanger, United States Volunteers; Col. E. 
A. Godwin, Seventh United States Volunteers; Maj. Thomas Cruse, 
quartermaster, United States Volunteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTY-THIRD DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington^ D. C, November 3, 1898. 

Colonel Denby held a session at 10.30 a. m.. General McCook being 
absent owing to illness. 

The secretary and the acting recorder were present. 

Lieut. Col. Albert J. Hartsuff, deputy surgeon- general United States 
Army, appearing as a witness, and having no objection, was duly sworn 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

A recess was then taken until 3 j). m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The hearing of testimony was resumed at 3 p. m. by Colonel Denby. 

Col. Myron H. McCord, First Territorial United States Volunteer 
Infantry, appearing as a witness, and having no objection, was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

Colonel McCord also submitted a letter addressed to the War Investi- 
gation Commission, which was filed with and made a part of his 
testimony. 

The Commission adjourned until 10 a. m. Friday the 4th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



MINUTKS OF THE COMMISSION. 47 

WORK OF SVBOOMMlTrEE-GENERAL DODGE, OOLONEL SEXTON, DR. CONNER. 

Cincinnati, Ohio, November 3, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimeny taken (see transcript 
of same) : MaJ. E. S. Helburn, Second Kentucky Volunteers; fiucius M. 
Drewry, Capt. Charles H. Price, Second Kentucky Volunteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GENERAL WILSON, GENERAL BEAVER, OAFTAIN 

HOWELL. 

Harrisburg, Pa., Novemher 5, 1898. 
Capt. Frank N. Moore, Ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, appeared 
before the committee, and having no objection, was duly sworn and 
his testimony taken. (See transcri])t of same.) 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTY-FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington., B, C, November 4, 1898. 
Colonel Denby held a session of the Commission at 10 o'clock a. m. 
No witnesses being present, the ofticial mail and papers were attended to. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GOVERNOR WOODBURY. 

Burlington, Vt., November 4, 1898. 
The following witnesses appeared before Governor Woodbury, sitting 
as a subcommittee, and having no objection they were duly sworn and 
their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Lieut. Francis J. Koes- 
ter, Third United States Cavalry; Capt. Henry L. liipley. Third United 
States Cavalry; Capt. George K. Hunter, Third United States Cavalry; 
Hermann E. Ensslin, quartermaster-sergeant. Troop F, Third United 
States Cavalry; Graham Wilson, sergeant, Troop G, Tliird United 
States Cavalry; James T. Murphy, first sergeant, Troop C, Third United 
States Cavalry; Frank Caine, first sergeant. Troop G, Third United 
States Cavalry; Henry Koch, first sergeant. Troop K, Tliird United 
States Cavalry; Bartholomew Mulhern, color-sergeant. Third United 
States Cavalry; John Oullette, first sergeant, Troop I, Third United 
States Cavalry. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



48 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GUNEIiAL WILSON, GENERAL BEAVER, CAPTAIN 

HOWELL. 

Harrisburg, Pa., November 4, 1898. 
Tlie following witnesses appeared before the committee, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Capt. Guy Howard, Quartermaster's Department, major. 
United States Volunteers; Maj. James N. Allison, commissary, lieuten- 
ant-colonel, A'olunteers; Maj. Alfred 0. Girard, lieutenant-colonel and 
chief surgeon, Volunteers; Lieut. Carl Eeichmann, assistant adjutant, 
United States Volunteers; Gapt. William P. Duvall, United States 
Artillery; Brig. Gen. George W. Davis, United States Volunteers; 
Lieut. Col. E. B. Watts, United States Volunteers; W. H. Bachler, 
quartermaster-sergeant, Forty-ninth Iowa Volunteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GENERAL DODGE, COLONEL SEXTON, DR. CONNER. 

Cincinnati, Ohio, November 4, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): H. E. Menage, surgeon, Sixth United States Infantry; Lieut. 
Saml. J. B. Schindel, Thirteenth United States Infantry; Lieut. Col. 
Charles W. Miner, Sixth United States Infantry; Col. C. B. Hunt, 
First Ohio Volunteers; William H. Davis, Avondale, Ohio; Gen. LI. 
Clay Egbert, United States Volunteers; Fred. J. Plleuger, Newport, 
Ky.; Maj. J. D. Griflith, chief surgeon. Third Division, First Corps; 
Enter W, Si)ringer, chaplain. United States Army; E. J. Button, chap- 
lain, United States Army. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTY-FIFTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington. D. C, November 5, 1898, 

The Commission met at 10 o'clock a. m,. Colonel Denby, General 
Wilson, and Captain Howell being j^resent. The secretary and the 
acting recorder were also present. 

General McCook, and the recorder. Major Mills, absent owing to ill- 
ness. The other members of the Commission still absent on the duties 
assigned them. 

The Commission ordered that the disbursing officer of this Commis- 
sion be requested to submit, through the usual channels, to the Public 
Printer, a request for the immediate printing of the testimony so far as 
it is prepared, and to continue this printing as rapidly as the testimony 
is ready for the printer. 



MINUTES OF Till': COMMISSION. ' 49 

That the Public rrinter be iiitbrmed that this whole testimony will 
eventually be printed as an appendix to the report of the Commission, 
and it is suggested that it will be well to electrotype the matter as fast 
us it is set up. 

That 50 copies be obtained, so that each member of the Commission, 
its executive officers, and secretary may each be furnished with 2 cop- 
ies, and the remainder held with the records of the Commission. 

The Commission, at 11 a. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. \u. Monday, 
the 7th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GEXERAL DODGE, COLONEL SEXTON, DR. CONNER. 

Cincinnati, Ohio, November 5, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Dr. Chas. L. Conitield, Cincinnati, Ohio; Maj. Frank W. 
Hendley, medical department, First Ohio; Dr. Otis L. Cameron, Cin- 
cinnati, Ohio; James T. Weaver, private, First Ohio; W. H. Sloan, jr., 
Cincinnati, Ohio, First Ohio Cavalry; Charles W. Zell, Cincinnati, Ohio, 
passenger agent; Thomas IJeed, Covington, Ky.; E. T. Landy, Cincin- 
nati, Ohio, and Mrs. Joseph J. Gest, Cincinnati, Ohio (^N^ewport, Ky.). 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GOVERNOR WOOD BURT. 

Burlington, Vt., November 5, 1898. 
Maj. James M. Jenne, chief surgeon, volunteers, ajipeared as a wit- 
ness, and having no objection he was duly sworn and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIETY-SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, 1). C, November 7, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present: Colonel Denby and General Wilson. 
The secretary and the acting recorder were also present. 
The other members of the Commission still absent on the duties 
assigned them. 

The official mail was attended to, and there being no witnesses present, 
the Commission adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Tuesday, the 8th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 
7833— VOL. 1 4 



50 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE-GENERAL DODGE, GOLOXEL 8F.XTOX, DR. CONNER. 

Chicago, III., November 7, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Maj. Lewis Schooler, medical department; Virginia. T.Betts, 
Chicago, III.: Maj. Milo B. Ward, medical department; Maj. William 
Cuthbertson, surgeon. First Illinois Cavalry; Col. Henry L. Turner, 
First Illinois Volunteers; Dr. S. Y. McCormick, Chicago, 111.; Col. 
Nicholas Senn, chief surgeon, United States Volunteers; Lieut. Ben- 
jamin J. Moore, Company K, First Illinois Volunteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTY SEVENTH DAY. 

Wau Department, 
Washington,) J). 0., Xovember 8, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present: Colonel Denby and General Wilson. 
The secretary and the acting recorder were also present. 
The other members of the Commission were still absent on the duties 
assigned them. 

The ofiBcial mail was attended to. There being no witnesses present, 
the Commission adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Wednesday, the 9th 
instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GOVERNOR WOODBURY. 

Burlington, Vt., November 8, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcrii)t of same): 
Capt. Charles A. Williams, Twenty-first Infantry, United States 
Army; Capt. John S. Parke, Twenty-first Infantry, United States 
Army; Capt. Frederick H. Ebstein, Twenty-first Infantry, United 
States Army; Jesse Ramsburgh, surgeon, Twenty-first Infantry; Pri- 
vate Luther N. Fenuell, Company M, First Vermont Volunteers; Sergt. 
Joseph Hanson, Company C, Twenty-first United States Infantry; 
Corpl. James O'Shea, Company B, Twenty-first Infantry; Ernest F. 
Jurgensen, quartermaster-sergeant, Company M, Twenty-first United 
States Infantry; Corpl. William H. Burt, Comj)any M, First Vermont 
Volunteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 51 

WORK OF SUBOOMMITTEE-QENERAL DOBOE, COLONEL SEXTON, BR. CONNER. 

Chicago, III,, November 8, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Maj. George A. Smith, snrgeon, Second Division, 
Third Army Corps; Charles S. Bullock, chaplain First Illinois Cavalry; 
Mrs. Trumbull White, Chicago, 111.; Col. O. M. Smith, commissary. 
United States Army; William T. P. Wardrop, Chicago, 111.; Dr. W. S. 
Devoe, Chicago, 111.; George K. Hoover, Chicago, 111.; Lieut. Charles 
McQuistou, Fourth United States Infantry; Col. E. C. Young, First 
Illinois Cavalry; Col. Marcus Cavanaugh, Seventh Illinois Infantry; 
Fred. H. Wines, Springfield, 111.; Maj. Lawrence M. Ennis, Seventh 
Illinois Infantry; Francis H. Buzzacott, Chicago, 111. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



THIRTY-EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department, 
WasMngtoHj D. C, November 5, 1898. 
The Commission met at 10 a. m. 
Present, Colonel Denby and General Wilson. 
The secretary and the acting recorder were also present. 
The other members of the Commission were still absent on the duties 
assigned them. 

The official mail was attended to. There being no witnesses present, 
the Commission then adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Thursday, the 10th 
instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— GOVERNOR WOOBBURT. 

Burlington, Vt., November 9, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : William 
E. Willard, quartermaster-sergeant, Company M, First Vermont Vol- 
unteers; Frank A. Bailey, Montpelier, \^t, ; Luther J. Bailey, private, 
Company E, First Vermont Volunteers; Maj. C. M. Bonette, First Ver- 
mont Volunteers; Harris H. Walker, hospital corps. First Vermont 
Volunteers. 

, F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



52 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

WOBE OF SUBCOMMITTEE— OENHRAL DODGE, COLONEL SEXTON, DB. CONNER. 

Chicago, III., November 9, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before the committee, and having 
no objection, were duly sworu and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Private Frank B. Eeynolds, First Illinois Infantry; Maj. 
Stephen Baker, Fourth United States Infantry; Col. A. H. Bainbridge, 
Fourth United States Infantry; George Chipman, Chicago, 111.; Pri- 
vate Edward C Stanton, Second Volunteer Engineers; Private 
William G. Dolan, Second Volunteer Engineers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Eecorder. 



THIRTY NINTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, 1). (7., November 10, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present, Colonel Denby, General Wilson, and Captain Howell. 

The secretary and the acting recorder were also present. 

The other members of the Commission were still absent on the duties 
assigned them. 

The official mail was attended to. Letter received from General 
Dodge, and answered to the effect that testimony was being printed, 
and that it would be briefed after the printing. 

Report of the subcommittee which went to Camp Meade ordered filed. 

Letter from Executive Mansion covering letter from F. A. Muench 
and inclosures ordered to be sent to Adjutant General, with the state- 
ment that these letters do not refer to any matter of which we have 
cognizance. 

Letter from Mr. Dowell and inclosures ordered filed. 

There being no witnesses present, the Commission adjourned to meet 
at 10 a. m., Friday, the 11th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Eecorder. 



BEPOBT OF THE COMMITTEE APPOINTED BY THE WAR COMMISSION TO VISIT 
AND INSPECT CAMP MEADE, PA. 

Washington, D. C, November 5, 1898. 
Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge, 

President of Gommissio7i to Investigate the Conduct of the 

War I)ej)artment during the War ivith Spain. 

General: The committee, consisting of Gen. James A. Beaver, Capt. 

Evan P. Howell, and myself, in accordance with instructions, proceeded 

to Harrisburg, Pa., and thence to Camp Meade, Pa., where we arrived 

at noon on Thursday, November 3. Walking from the station to corps 

headquarters, we presented ourselves to Maj. Gen. S. B. M. Young, 

United States Volunteers, commanding the Second Army Corps, and 



MINUTES OP THE COMMISSION. 53 

shortly afterwards, escorted by Brig. Gen. (George W. Davis, United 
States Vol luiteers, we visited the camps of every regiment of the corps, 
except the Two hundred and third New York Vohinteer Infantry, which 
was located several miles from the main body of the troops. 

We found the camps well located, the sanitary arrangements in good 
condition, and the water supply excellent. 

Interviews with the commanding ofiicers of the various regiments, 
with the majority of Avhom we conversed, failed to bring out complaints 
except of minor character, and the reports indicated that the supply 
departments were in good condition; that requisitions upon the staflf 
departments were, as a rule, promptly filled ; that the discipline was 
good, and the troops, numbering about 22,500 men, were ready to take 
the field at any time. 

We completed our visit through the camps about 6 p. m. and returned 
to Harrisburg. 

At 8 p. m. the committee again met at Lochiel Hotel and called before 
it Capt. Frank N. Moore, Company M, Ninth Eegiment Pennsylvania 
Volunteer Infantry. Captain Moore was before the committee until 
about 10.30 p. m. His testimony will be found in the report of the 
stenographer herewith. 

The committee again met at the Lochiel House at 9 a. m. Friday, 
November 4, 1898. It called before it during the day and heard the 
testimony of the following-named officers: Lieut. Col. Guy Howard, 
United States Volunteers, chief quartermaster Second Army Corps: 
Lieut. Col. James M. Allison, United States Volunteers, chief commis- 
sary Second Army Corps; Brig. Gen. George W. Davis, United States 
Volunteers, commanding First Division, Second Corps; Lieutenant 
Colonel Watts, Eighth Eegiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry; 
Lieut. Col. Alf. C. Girard, United States Volunteers, chief surgeon 
Second Corps; Capt. Carl Reichmann, United States Volunteers, assist- 
ant adjutant- general, Second Corps; Lieut. Col. W. P. Duvall, United 
States Volunteers, chief ordnance officer Second Corps. 

The committee adjourned at 2 p. m. and returned to Washington, 
reaching there on the evening of the 4th instant. 

The testimony of the officers who were heard will be found in the 
record of the stenographer herewith. 

Very respectfully, John M. Wilson, 

Brigadier General, GMef of Engineers^ U. S. A. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— aOYERNOR WOODBTTRT. 

Burlington, Vt., November 10, 1898. 

The following witnesses appeared, and having no objection were 

duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Capt. 

George A. Dodd, Third United States Cavalry; Cornelius M. Brownell, 

Burlington, Vt. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



54 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

WOEE OF STIBOOMMITTEE— GENERAL DODGE, COLONEL /SEXTON, Dli CONNER. 

Detroit, Mich., November 10, 1898. 
The followiug witnesses appeared before the committee, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Maj. A. W. Corliss, Seventh United States Infantry; Lieut. 
O. B. Eosenbaum, quartermaster Seventh United States Infantry; 
Capt. Charles A. Booth, Seventh United States Infantry; Maj. Cliarles 
B. Nancrede, division surgeon; Theodore W. Whittier, private, Seventh 
United States Infantry; Maj. Lawrence D. Knowles, surgeon, Thirty- 
second Michigan; Captain Booth (recalled), Mrs. Lucy Weldon, Detroit, 
Mich.; Helen Stuart Kichings, Capt. George S. Young, Seventh United 
States Infantry; Maj. William G. Latimer, Thirty-fourth Michigan 
Volunteers; O. B. Weed, Thirty-second Michigan Volunteers; Maj. 
Thomas H. Reynolds, Thirty-second Michigan Volunteers;, Capt. F. W. 
Crowley, Thirty-third Michigan Volunteers. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FOETIETH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, I). C, November 11, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present: Colonel Denby, General Wilson, and Captain Howell. 

The secretary and the acting recorder were also present. 

The other members of the Commission were still absent on the duties 
assigned them. 

The official mail was attended to. There being no witnesses present, 
the Commission adjourned to meet at TO a. m. Saturday, the 12th 
instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



FOETY-FIRST DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. (7., November 12, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., with all 
the members present excepting Governor Woodbury, who was still 
absent on the duties assigned him. 
The acting recorder and secretary were also present. 
Colonel Denby submitted to the Commission a written report in 
regard to business transacted in Washington during the absence of the 
Commission, which was read and filed. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 55 

The several members of the subcommittee which proceeded to the 
West, composed of General Dodge, Colonel Sexton, and Dr. Conner, 
made an informal verbal report of their work, a fuller report of which 
will appear by reference to transcript of testimouy taken by them. 

Dr. Conner submitted a communication received from the Chicago 
College of Pharmacy (connected with the University of Illinois), which 
was filed. 

General Dodge submitted a letter from M. Koenigsburg, of Mont- 
gomery, Ala., which was read and tiled. 

The Commission, at 12.30 o'clock, adjourned to meet on Monday at 
10 a. m., the 14th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FORTY SECOND DAT. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, November 14, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present, all members excej)ting Captain Howell, who was called to 
Atlanta, Ga. 

The acting recorder and secretary were also present. 

General Dodge submitted for the consideration of the Commission a 
report on the case of Corpl. Francis H. Sweet, who died October 30, at 
Montauk Point. Special letter sent. 

Col. R. S. Iluidekoper, chief surgeon. United States Volunteers, 
appeared before the Commission and, having no objection, he was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.40 \), m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

Maj. Thomas T. Knox, inspector-general, United States Army, ap- 
peared before the Commission and, having no objection, he was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

General Dodge submitted the following letters: 

H. F. Hodges, lieutenant colonel First United States Volunteer Engi- 
neers, in regard to Dr. Seaman. Filed with Dr. Seaman's testimony. 

John M. Thayer, Lincoln, Nebr., November 7, 1898. Filed, and put 
name of Mrs. Adams referred to in said letter on list of witnesses. 

Gen. Joseph C. Breckinridge, Inspector-General United States Army, 
appeared before the Commission and, having no objection, he was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.45 ]}. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, 

the 15th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



56 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

FORTY-THIKD DAY. 

War Department, 
WasMngton, B. C, November 15, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjourumeut at 10 a. m. 

Present, all members except Captain Howell, who was still absent 
in Atlanta. 

The acting recorder and secretary were also present. 

Gen. Joseph C. Breckinridge resumed the witness stand and con- 
ckided his testimony. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Capt. R. W. Dowdy, United States Army, retired; Dr. 
George L. Magruder, Washington. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following witnesses appeared, and having no objection were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Dr. 
William G. Weaver, assistant and acting surgeon, Ninth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers; Maj. Louis A. La Garde, surgeon. United States Army. 

The Commission adjourned until to morrow, the 16th instant, at 
10 a. m. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FORTY-FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 

WasMngton, D. C, Novemher 16, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members present. 

The acting recorder and secretary were also present. 

Major La Garde resumed the stand and concluded his testimony. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same) : Lieut. Col. J. W. Jacobs, Quartermaster's Department; Capt. 
Jonathan M. Patton, assistant quartermaster, United States ^'ol- 
unteers. 

The Commission, at 12:30 p. m., took a recess until 2 ]). m. 

afternoon session. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were duly 
sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Capt. M. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 57 

W. Ireland, assistant surgeon, United States Army; Capt. Edward L. 
Munson, assistant surgeon, United States Army; Col. W. H. Forwood, 
assistant surgeon-general. 

The Commission, at 4:45 j). m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 17th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FOBTY-FIFTH DAT. 

War Department, 
WasMngton, D. C, November 17, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present. 

The acting recorder and secretary were also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

On motion of Governor Woodbury it was voted that one member ot 
the Commission be designated to remain in Washington during the 
absence of the Commission in the Xorth, to look after business of the 
Board in that place; and President Dodge designated Colonel Denby 
to remain in Washington. 

Letter was read from H. A. Dobson, M. D., Washington, D. C, which 
was referred to Colonel Denby for attention. 

Letter read from W. H. Caine, M. D., Minneapolis, Minn. Upon 
motion of Dr. Conner it was moved that Dr. Caine be again requested 
to send all the information he has in the matter referred to in the form 
of an aifidavit. 

Dr. Forwood resumed the witness stand and concluded his testi- 
mony. 

Maj. Eichard H. Pyles, surgeon First District of Columbia Volun- 
teers, appeared as a witness and, having no objection, he was duly sworn 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock j). m. 

Gen. S. B. M. Young, United States Volunteers, appeared as a wit- 
ness and, having no objection, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. 
(See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 3.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at the Fifth Avenue 
Hotel, New York, Friday morning, November 18, at 10 a. m. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



i 



58 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

FOETY-SIXTH DAY. *4 

New York City, November 18, 1898. 

The CoinDiission arrived in New York City at 7 a. m., and met at 10 
o'clock, iu the Fifth Aveuue Hotel, where it resumed the hearing of 
testimouy. 

All members on the trii^ present, Colonel Denby being delegated to 
attend to the business of the Commission in Washington. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Col. Charles R. Greenleaf, assistant surgeon -general; David 
J. Goss, cook, Seventy-first New York Volunteers; Henry Hauck, 
private, Company L, Seventy-first New York Volunteers. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess to meet at 2 o'clock p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

It was decided that on and after the 21st instant the morning session 
would begin at 9.30 a. m. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : William 
H. Henry, New York City; Eichard M. Henry, New York City; Frank 
Donaldson, acting assistant surgeon; James S. Sauers, private, Com- 
pany K, Seventy-first New York Volunteers; Mrs. Mary Manson, New 
York City. 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Saturday, 
the 19th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FORTY-SEVENTH DAY. 

New York City, November 19, 1898, 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present, all members on the trip except General Beaver, who was 
called to Pennsylvania on court duty. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The proceedings of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Mrs. Edmund C. Allis; Capt. Edward H. Plummer, 
Tenth United States Infantry; Maj. George T. Lorigan, Ninth New 
York Volunteers. 

The Commission, at 12.30, took a recess until 2 p. m. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 59 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Mar- 
garet H. Garrard, Morristown, N. J. ; Lieut. Charles Edwards, Company 
H, Seventy-first New York Volunteers. 

The Commission, at 4 p. m., adjourned to meet at 9.30 a. m. on Mon- 
day, the 21st instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



WORK OF SUBOOMMITTEE-OOLONEL DENBY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, November 19, 1898. 
The following witnesses appearing before Colonel Denby, sitting as 
a subcommittee in Washington, and having no objection, were duly 
sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Mrs. Josie 
M. Dobson, Dr. H. A. Dobson, Lawrence J. Wooldridge, Samuel Phelan, 
Arthur L. Kitchen. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FOETY-EIGHTH DAY. 

New York City, November 21, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9.30 a. m. 

Present, all members on the trip except Captain Howell, who was 
called away to Atlanta, Ga. General Beaver returned from Pennsyl- 
vania. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same) : Maj. F. J. Ives, brigade surgeon volunteers; Dr. Lewis 
A. Stimpson, New York City; Miss Julia H. Chad wick, New York City. 

Mr. R. B. Roosevelt appeared before the Commission and made a 
short statement. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Dr. W. 
Gilman Thompson, S. D. Parrish, New York City. 



60 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Mr. Parrisli, after being sworn, stated tliat he excepted to the expres- 
sion "the whole truth," inasmuch as he did not expect to tell all he 
knew. 

The Commission adjourned, at 4.30 p. m., to meet at 9.30 a. m. the 
22d instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WOBK OF SJJBOOMMIITEE— COLONEL DENBY. 

War Department, 
WasMngtofi, I). C, November 21, 1898. 
The following witnesses appeared before Colonel Denby, sitting as a 
subcommittee in Washington, and having no objection were duly sworn 
and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Lieut. S. Cliftord 
Cox, assistant surgeon. First District of Columbia Volunteers; Corpl. 
Wm. C. Eyan, First District of Columbia Volunteers, Comj)any D. 

F. B. JoNESj Acting Recorder. 



FOETY NINTH DAY. 

New York City, Novemher 22, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9.30 a. m. 

Present, all members on the trip, except Captain Howell, who was 
still absent in Atlanta. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and 
having no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same): Mrs. Susan B. Powell, New York; Joseph 
Gurke, Yonkers, N. Y.; Col. A. S. Kimball, assistant quartermaster, 
United States Army; Sidney V. Lowell, Brooklyn, N. Y.; Miss Mary 
C. Lowell, Brooklyn, N. Y.; Eev. Henry B. Bryan, Long Island. 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Hilder 
Olin, second lieutenant Company I, Seventy-first New York Volun- 
teers; George Wallace, Long Island; Mrs. L, G. Woodhouse; Col. 
Theodore Eoosevelt, First Eegiment Volunteer Cavalry. 

The Commission, at 5 p. ra., adjourned to meet Wednesday, the 23d 
instant, at 9.30 o'clock a. m. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 61 

WOEK OF SUBCOMMITTEE— COLONEL DENBT. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, November 22, 1898. 
Capt. William S. Hodges, Company D, First District of Columbia 
Volimteers, appeared before Colonel Denby, sitting as a subcommittee, 
and having no objection, lie was duly sworn and his testimony taken. 
(iSee transcript of same.) 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FIFTIETH DAY. 

New York City, N'ovemher 23, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9.30 a. m. 

Present all members on the trip. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same): Lieut. John M. Thompson, Seventy-first New 
York Volunteers; J. S. J. Archibald, New York City; John Jay Kobin- 
son. New York City; Mrs. Johanna von Wagner, New York City; 
Knight Neftel, New York City; Cleveland Moffett; Edward A. Sumner, 
New York City. 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess to meet at 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were" 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Dr. 
Elmer Lee, New York City; Col. J. Morris Brown, deputy surgeon-gen- 
eral, United States Army; Dr. Herbert C. Anderson, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

It was moved and seconded that in view of the fact that Thursday, 
the 24th instant, would be Thanksgiving day, the Commission would 
adjourn until Friday, the 25th instant, at 0.30 a. m. 

A resolution was also adopted that upon the close of the session in 
New York, on Saturday evening, the 26th instant, the Commission 
proceed to Boston, Mass., that night, for the purpose of taking testi- 
mony there. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



62 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

FIFTY-FIRST DAY. 

New York City, Novemher 35, 1898, 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9.30 a. m. 

Present ail members on tlie trip, except Governor Woodbury, absent 
in Burlington, Vt. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The following letters were received in reply to invitations to appear 
as witnesses before the Commission: 

39 East Thirty-fifth Street, November 24, 1898. 
Gen. Grexville M. Dodge, 

President of Commission. 

Dear Sir: I regret that I must decline your invitation to appear before your 
committee. I visited Camp Wikoff as a member of tlie advisory board of jibysicians 
of the National Ked Cross Society of this city, by the request of the executive com- 
mittee of the society, to report on the sanitary conditions of the camp. A full report 
was sent by me to the committee, which I presume they will gladly furnish you. 

The desire of your committee for information, it seems to me, can be served in this 

way better than by the methods whicli it has seemed wise to your committee to 

adopt in examining the medical gentlemen who have aiijieared before you. 

Kespectfully, 

Francis P. Kinnicutt. 



12 West Thirty-second Street, November 4, 1898. 
Dear Doctor: I have no testimony to give that will be of service to your com- 
mittee, so that I shall have to ask you to excuse me. 
Yours, truly, 

Francis Delafield. 



8 East Sixty-sixth Street, 

Netv York, November 24, 1898. 
Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, 

Dear Sir : Appreciating the courtesy of an invitation to appear before your com- 
mittee, I beg to be excused, as I am unable to testify to any sjiecific facts based on 
personal knowledge. 

Very respectfully, yours, 

Geo. F. Shrady. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Daniel McKeever, New York City; Eev. Dwight Galloupe, 
Newark, N. J.; Charles J. Goulden, New York City; Joseph P. Holmes, 
New York City; Mrs. Mary Hatch Willard, Joseph F. Gleason, Brook- 
lyn, N. Y. ; Louis E. Kreuss, New York City; Mrs. Elizabeth Brosnan, 
Worcester, Mass.; M. J. Hussey, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

The Commission took a recess at 1 p. m. until 2 j). m. 

AFTEENOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Dr. A. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 63 

Monae Lesser, New York City; Dr. Cyrus Edson, New York City; 
A. E. Gallant, New York City. 

Mrs. Mary Hatch Willard submitted a letter, which was read, and 
requested that same be made a part of her testimony, which was so 
ordered. 

Gilbert G. Brock way, Charles J. Coons, Thos. H. Brett, and J. J. 
Keller, all volunteers Seventy-first New York Volunteers, appeared 
before the Commission, each presenting a paper signed by himself; all 
being duly sworn, stated the contents of said papers, marked Nos. 1, 2, 
3, and 4, were true. 

Dr. Lewis A. Stimpson, New York City, appeared again before the 
Commission and submitted some papers of record, in accordance with 
understanding previously had. (See transcript of testimony.) 

The Commission adjourned at 4 p. m. to meet again at 8 p. m, 

EVENING SESSION. 

The Commission met at 8 p. m. pursuant to adjournment. 

The following witnesses appeared, and having no objection were duly 
sworn, and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Maj. John 
W. Summerhayes, quarternmster, United States Army; Charles M. 
Swift, purveyor of fleet; Henry P. Kirkham. 

The Commission, at 9.30 p. m., adjourned, to meet at 9.30 a. m. Satur- 
day, the 26th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBOOMMITIEE— COLONEL DENBT. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, November 35, 1898. 
Preston O. King, hospital steward. First District of Columbia Vol- 
unteers, appeared before Colonel Denby, sitting as a subcommittee, 
and having no objections he was duly sworn, and his testimony taken 
(see transcript of same). 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



FIFTY SECOND DAT. 

New York City, November 26, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 9.30 a. m. 
Present all members on the trip, except Governor Woodbury, who 
was still absent. 
The acting recorder was also present. 



64 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The following letter was received from Alexander Duane in reply to 
an invitation to appear as a witness before the Commission : 

49 East Thirtieth Street, 
New York, November 25, 1898. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge, 

President War Commission. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your telegram of this date. In 
reply I regret to say that I have no first-hand information that could be of value to 
your Commission : in other words, I can offer no testimony as an eyewitness or 
from personal experience. What information I have is such as most of us have here, 
who have followed (with care and an earnest wish to learn the facts) the authorized 
reports, the accounts published in the medical journals, and the conservative press 
generally, and the testimony of competent witnesses that we have happened to come 
into contact with. This testimony has already been in large part presented to you 
at first hand (e, g., Dwight Thompson, Dr. Stimpson, and others). Hence, while I 
shall be very glad to assist the Commission in any way in my power, I feel that it 
would be only a waste of time to present myself before you to testify in regard to 
matters of which I was not an eyewitness, and as to the truth of which I can not, 
although morally certain, contribute any decisive evidence. 

Respectfully, Alexander Duane. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Dr. M. O. Terry, surgeon-general New York State; Mrs. L. 
W. Qnintard, New York City, N. Y. ; Mrs. Alice B. Babcock, New York 
City, N. Y.; Joseph F. Chmelicek, New York City, N. Y. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took recess, to meet at 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): W. H. Baldwin, jr., president Long Island Railroad, New 
York City; Eleanor L. Coe, New York City, N. Y. 

Letter received from Eobert B. Roosevelt was read, same was ordered 
to be filed with the testimony. 

The following letter was mailed to the New York World, on Novem- 
ber 19, 1898, viz : 

New York City, November 19, 1898. 
New York World, 

New York City. 

Gentlemen : Referring to your request as to the investigation of contracts by this 
Commission, I desire to say that the Commission is prepared to investigate any con- 
tract that has been made by the Government where fraud is charged or undue 
influence against any officer of the War Department. 

If you have any evidence bearing n, oh such cases we would be pleased to hear it. 

Respectfully, yours, 

Grenville M. Dodge, President. 

to which no answer has been received up to the time the Commission 
closed its sessions in New York City. 

The Commission then, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 9.30 a. m. 
at the Parker House, Boston, Mass., Monday, the 28th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 65 

FIFTY -THIRD DAY. 

Boston, Mass., November 29y 1898. 

The Commission met at 9.30 a. m. 

Present, all members on the trip. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The Commission was unable to meet on the 28th instant, as agreed 
upon at the adjournment on the liGth instant, owing to the railroad 
trains upon which the members were traveling between New York and 
Boston being detained thirty hours while en route on account of a 
severe snowstorm. 

The iollowing witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcrii)t 
of same): Leonard W. Johnson, North Cambridge, Mass. ; Dr. William 
II. Prescott, Boston, Mass.; Dr. Laura A. C. Hughes, Boston, Mass. 

The Commission, at 1.45 p. m., took a recess to meet at 2 o'clock p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript 
of same): Gen. Adelbert Ames, United States Volunteers, Boston, 
Mass.; E. G. Brackett, Boston, Mass.; Mrs. Elizabeth Bell Thomas, 
Haverhill, Mass.; Dr. R. C. Cabot, Boston, Mass.; Dr. George F. Camp- 
bell, Boston, Mass.; William B. Kenibbs, Boston, Mass.; Dr. Miles 
Standish, Boston, ]\Iass. ; Dr. Herbert L. Burrell, Boston, Mass. : J. B. 
Houston, Boston, Mass. 

The Commission adjourned to meet at 9.30 a. m., November 30, 1898. 

F. B. Jones, Acting liecorder. 



FIFTY-FOURTH DAY. 

Boston, Mass., November 30, 1898. 

The Commission met at 9.30 a. m. 

Present, all members on the trip. 

The acting recorder was also present. 

The following-mentioned letters were received in reply to invitations 
to appear before the Commission. 

From William Astor Chandler, that he did not receive notice dated 
2.5th instant until the 28th instant, so he was unable to avail him- 
self of the invitation to testify. 

From George Y. Bancher, that as nothing would be gained by his 
appearing, and it would put a blot on his regiment, he declines. 

From Dr. William H. Pierce, that Mrs. John Brooks is unable to 
appear, owing to quite serious illness in her family. 
7833— voT>. 1 5 



GQ INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

A letter was received from Mrs. J. H. Bull, stating that her son 
would like to testify in support of the War Department. 

Three letters were received from Mr. H. L. Higgiuson, of Boston, 
Mass., stating that if he could be assured that witnesses would be 
treated iiindly and fairly he would be able to induce several good men 
to go before the Commission. Mr. Higginson was advised that as yet 
the Commission had no complaint from any witness, and that it would 
be pleased to have sent before it any person in possession of informa- 
tion. Mr. Higgiuson also complained of a certain surgeon, who was 
found continually drunk wliile on duty, both at Fortress Monroe nnd 
Camp Wikoft". The Commission requested Mr. Higginson to kindly 
furnisli the name of the doctor, to which Mr. Higginson replied, stating 
that his name was Winter and tliat he did not know whether he was 
an army officer or not. 

On motion of General Beaver it was agreed that upon final adjour- 
Tneut in Boston the Commissioners meet at 10 a. m. Friday, December 
2, 1<S98, in Washington, D. C. 

On motion of Captain Howell, it was agreed that Dr. Conner and 
Governor Woodbury remain in Boston for the present as a sub- 
committee to take such testimony for the Commission as they deem 
necessary. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Dr. James B. Clarkson. Boston, Mass.; Maj. Charles 
K. Darling, Sixth Massachusetts Volunteers, Boston, Mass.; Jeremiah 
G. Feunessey, lieutenant, Ninth Massachusetts Volunteers, Roxbury, 
Mass. ; Dr. Frank M, Johiison, Boston, Mass. ; Dr. Henry La Motte, 
Boston, Mass.; Mr. Edwin Atkinson, Boston, Mass.; Dr. David Clark, 
Springfield, Mass.; Ilev. Dr. Edwin S. Wheeler, Boston, Mass.; W. H. 
Seabury, Boston, Mass.; A. Brown, Boston, Mass.; Grafton J. Gush- 
ing, Boston, Mass.; Charles Pfaff, colonel First Massachusetts Heavy 
Artillery. 

The Commission, at 3.30 p. m., adjourned. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORK OF SUBCOMMITTEE-GOVERNOR WOODBURY. DOCTOR CONNER. 

Boston, Mass., December 1, 1898. 
The folloAving witnesses appeared before tlie committee, and having 
no objections, were duly sworn and tlieir testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Maj. Charles L. Heizuiaun, surgeon, United States 
Army J Dr. Daniel Fiske Jones. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 67 

FIFTY-FIFTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, December 2, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjouinnient at 10 a. m. 

Present, all the members except Dr. Conner, absent as subcommittee 
taking testimony at Boston, Mass. 

The secretary and acting recorder were also present. 

General Dodge read a letter from tlie New York World, dated 
November 29. Ordered filed with the records. 

Colonel Deuby submitted a letter from Secretary Alger in regard to 
testimony of General Breckinridge. 

General AVilson submitted a copy of General Order 181, Headquarters 
of the Army, Adjutant-General's OfiSce, November 2G, 1898. Ordered 
to be filed with Lieutenant Fennessey's testimony. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and tlieir testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Col. 
Charles Bird, Quartermaster's Department, United States Volunteers^ 
Col. Crosby P. Miller, Quartermaster's DejDartment, United States 
Army. 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Col. 
William S. Patton, Quartermaster's Department, United States Army; 
Capt. James McKay, Tampa, Fla. 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Satur- 
day, the 3d instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



WORE OF SUBCOMMITTEE— DB. CONNER. 

Boston, Mass., December 2, 1898. 
Dr. Edward H. Bradford appeared before Dr. Conner, sitting as a 
committee representing the Commission, and having no objection, he 
was duly sworu and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



68 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPxUN. 

FIFTY-SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, December 3, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

All tlie members were present except Dr. Conner, who was still 
absent taking testimony in Boston. 

The secretary and acting recorder were also present. 

General Dodge read indorsements of Lieut. Col. and Chief Surg. 
John V. K. Hoff, dated August 24, 1898, and Maj. Gen. J. C. Breckin- 
ridge, of September 2, in regard to report of General Sanger's board on 
sanitary condition of camps. The papers were ordered filed. 

A letter from Col. and Asst. Surg. Gen. Charles K. Greenleaf was 
read, being in reply to the request of the Commission, giving his views 
in regard to the Medical Department. It was ordered to be printed in 
connection with his testimony. 

A letter dated November 12, 1898, from Maj. Gen. J. R. Brooke, was 
read and ordered to be filed. 

A letter was read from the Secretary of War, dated November 29, 
1898, in regard to Inspector- General's Department. It, together with 
General Orders, No. 18, of March, 1895, and No. 81, of June, 1898, were 
ordered to be printed. 

Colonel Denby submitted a report of the work done and testimony 
taken by himself in Washington during the absence of the other mem- 
bers of the Commission in New York and Boston. The report and 
letters in connection therewith were ordered to be placed on file. 

Colonel Denby also related a statement made to him by the mother 
of the late Sergeant Dobson, First District of Columbia Volunteers. 

Letter of November 18, 1898, from Miller & Young, 108 Front street, 
New York City, was read, in regard to sale of coffee at Southern camps. 
Ordered referred to Commissary-General. 

Copy of cablegram from Brig. Gen. Charles F. Humphrey, Quarter- 
master's Department, objecting to testimony of Lieut. Col. J. W. Jacobs, 
was read, and ordered that it be made part of the records. 

Captain McKay resumed the stand and concluded his testimony. 

George W. Goethals, captain of engineers, lieutenant-colonel and 
chief engineer of Volunteers, api)eared before the Commission, and 
having no objection, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See 
transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. 

Col. James M. Moore, assistant quartermaster -general, appeared 
before the Commission, and having no objection, he was duly sworn 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 3.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Monday, 
the 5th instant. y. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 69 

WOliK OF STJBGOMMITTEE-DR. CONNER. 

Boston, Mass., December 3, 1898. 
Col. John F. Marsh appeared before Dr. Conner, sitting as a repre- 
sentative of the Commission, and having no objection, he was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcrii)t of same.) 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FIFTY SEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, December 5, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all of the 
members being present. 

The secretary, recorder, and acting recorder were also present. 

General Dodge read a letter from Mrs. James Brady in relation to 
the trial of Captain Queenly, of the Ninth Massachusetts, and death of 
her son. It was ordered returned to Adjutant-Cxeneral United States 
Army with the information tnat as the case had been passed upon by 
a board, the Commission did not deem it expedient to reopen the case. 

General Dodge read a letter received through the Adjutant- General 
from Horace Barnes. It was ordered returned to the Adjutant-General 
with the indorsement "contents noted." 

A letter addressed to Hon. Mark Hanna, from Granville Sinclair, was 
read, in regard to Private W. E. Ball, Company G, Second West Vir- 
ginia, complaining that he sees no testimony from enlisted men. Gen- 
eral Dodge was authorized to write a reply. 

Col. J. G. C. Lee was recalled by the Commission. (See transcript 
of testimony.) 

Maj. Ira C. Brown, surgeon, United States Volunteers, appeared 
before the Commission as a witness, and having no objection, he was 
duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 p. m., when Major Brown con- 
tinued and concluded his testimony. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Lieut. 
Col. M. C. Martin, quartermaster Volunteers; Clinton Smith, architect, 
Quartermaster's Department. 

The Commission, at 5 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thursday, 
the Gth instant. 

F, B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



70 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

FIFTY-EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department, 

WasJiington, D. C, December 6, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

All tlie members were present. 

The secretary, recorder, and acting recorder were also present. 

General Dodge read a letter from Dr. Samuel D. Hubbard. Ordered, 
tliat Dr. Hubbard be asked to furnish an affidavit in the case of Private 
Frank, injured at Chattanooga. 

General Dodge read a letter from Dr. W. N. Prescott, asking for a 
copy of his testimony. Ordered, that he be informed that it is in proc- 
ess of printing, and copy of same will be furnished him. 

Governor Woodbury offered the following resolution : 

BesoJccd, That the President ia hereby authorized to assign to each Commissioner 
such data in the preparation of the report of the Commission as he may deem wise. 

Adopted. 

General Beaver moved that all the papers furnished by the Adjutant- 
General bo printed for the Commission's own use. It was so ordered. 

General Beaver submitted a draft of "heads of subjects" to be con- 
sidered by the Commission for making its report; he was requested to 
complete the same, after which manifold copies wiU be furnished each 
member of the Commission. 

The following resolutions were passed: 

Eesolved, That the Commission adjourn for Christmas and New Year's day, and 
that any member who desires be allowed to take a longer time; but that the Com- 
mission remain in session and continue its work during the holiday week. 

Resolved, That the recorder be authorized to employ an expert indexer for the 
purpose of preparing a proper and complete index of the testimony taken, and yet 
to be taken, before the Commission. The salary to be submitted for the approval 
of the Commission. 

No witnesses appearing for examination, the Commission took a 
recess until 2 p. ra. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock, and no witnesses present- 
ing themselves for examination, the Commission adjourned at 3.30 p. m. 
to meet at 10 a. m. Wednesday, the 7th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



FIFTY IsTINTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, December 7, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present save (Jeneral Dodge, absent in New York. 
The secretary, recorder, and acting recorder were also i)resent. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 71 

Col. Frank J. Hecker, (inaitt'iimitster, United Slates Volunteers, appear- 
ing as a witness, and having no objection, he was duly sworn and hi-s 
testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

Colonel Deuby read a letter from Brig. Gen. Charles E. Compton, 
United vStates ^'olunt('crs, dated Chicago, 111., November 28, 1898, 
addressed to Adjutant (Jeneral United States Army, stating "Dr. (x. 
A. Smith's testimony conveyes a wrong impression. To use a mild 
expression, Dr. Smith is mistaken." 

J)r. Conner moved that a communication be sent to the Surgeon- 
General, asking if Dr. George A. Smith's report of the Second Division 
Hospital, Third Army Corps, at Camp Thomas had ever been received at 
his (tlie Surgeon-General's) oflice, or any communication relative to the 
matter. It Avas so ordered. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were duly 
sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Col. Charles 
H. Alden, assistant surgeon -general; Private James E. Smith, Troop 
A, Sixth Cavalry. 

Colonel llecker reappeared and submitted certain papers pertaining 
to his testimony. 

In reply to inquiry by the Commission, a letter was received from the 
Surgeon-General, inclosing papers pertaining to Dr. G. A. Smith, which 
was referred to Dr. Conuer for examination. 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Thurs- 
day, the 8th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder. 



SIXTIETH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, I). C, December <s, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present. 

The secretary, recorder, and acting recorder were also present. 

Dr. Conner reported there was nothing in the papers from the 
Suigeou-General's Office concerning Dr. G. A. Smith of interest to the 
Commission, and recommended that they be returned to the Surgeon- 
General's Office. It was so ordered. 

Affidavit of Mrs. Woodhonse presented and ordered fded. 

Brig. Gen. George M. Sternberg, Surgeon (ieneral United States 
Army, api>eared before the Commission as a witness, and having no 



72 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

objection, he was duly swoin and liis testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 
Tiie Commission, at 12.80 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock p. m. and went into execu- 
tive session. 

It was ordered that a letter be written asking for the report of Colonel 
Ivoosovelt on the Santiago campaign, and that such extracts of Captain 
McKay's testimony as General McCook may designate be sent to 
Colonel Koosevelt in reply to Colonel Roosevelt's letter to General 
McCook. 

Also, that a letter be written to Gen. C. E. Compton, United States 
Volunteers, that if he (Compton) will send his affidavit about what he 
has to say in legard to the testimony of Dr. G. A. Smith, the Commis- 
sion will have it printed with Dr. Smith's testimony. 

Surgoon-General Sternberg resumed and concluded his testimony. 

Brig. Gen. D. W. Flagler, Chief of Ordnance, apijeared as a witness, 
and having no objections, he was duly sworn and his testimony taken, 
(See transcrij>+ of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Friday, 
the 0th instant. 

F. B. Jones, Acting Recorder, 



SIXTY-FIRST DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. 6\, December 9, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Captain Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Col. Frank J. Hecker, assistant quartermaster, recalled and addi- 
tional testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

A comuuinication from James H. Ferriss partially read and laid aside, 
when Maj. D. M. Appel, surgeon, United States Army, appeared as a 
witness, and hiving no objection, he was duly sworn and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

It was moved and seconded that Mr. Ryan (referred to in Colonel 
Becker's testimony) be called as a witness. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

A communication in regard to the Homeopathic Hospital in Brooklyn, 
]Sr. Y., was read by General Dodge, in re Maj. D. M. Appel, surgeon. 
United States Army, and it was decided to recall Major Appel and 
question him in regard to it. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 73 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Oommission reassembled at 2 p. m. 

Maj. D. M. x\ppel was recalled and continued his testimony. 

Maj. A. H. Appel, surgeon, United States Army, appearing as a wit- 
ness, and having no objection, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. 
(See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Saturday, 
the 10th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder, 



SIXTY-SECOND DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, December 10, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Captain Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

General Wilson submitted a letter from Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, 
dated December 9, regarding status of Colonel Swift. Noted and filed. 

A letter was received from Edward Oldham, general manager Asso- 
ciated Trade and Industrial Press, Washington, D. C, inclosing letter 
from Jacob Dold Packing Company, Kansas City, Mo. Ordered that 
it be referred to the Commissary-General to ascertain when tlie adver- 
tisements were published, what the proposals were for, and what length 
of time was given for bids. 

A letter was received from Dr. Elmer Lee, 10 West Forty-ninth 
street, New York City. Ordered that the charts be left out of Dr. 
Lee's testimony. 

A letter was received from Rev. Dr. R. Heber Newton, New York, 
explaining why he did not avail himself of the invitation from the Com- 
mission to appear before it while testimony was being taken in New 
York. Ordered filed. 

Directed that the Adjutant-General, United States Army, be re- 
quested to order Colonel Wright and jMajor Torney, chief surgeon, to 
report to Dr. Conner at No. 508 Johnson Building^ Cincinnati, Ohio, 
at 10 a. m. December 23, for examination. 

Maj. Yalery llavard, surgeon, United States Army, appearing as a 
witness, and having no objections, he was duly sworn and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

Brig. Gen. D. W. Flagler was recalled and additional testimony taken. 
(See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 1.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Monday, 
Deceinber 12. 
' S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



74 INVESTICJATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WrrH SPAIN. 

SIXTYTHIRl) DxVY. 

War Department, 
Washinyton, 1). 6'., Deeember 13, 1S98. 

Tlie Oommissiou met pursuant to adjourunient at 10 a. ra.,all the mem- 
bers being- present except Captain Howell. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was read from tlse Secretary of the IS'avy, dated December 
10, 1898, inclosing- copy of letter from Capt. C. F. Goodrich, United 
States Navy, dated December 7, 1898, together with letter from Maj. 
Gen. J. R. Brooke, headquarters First Army Corps, Arroyo, Porto 
Eico, dated August 3, 1898 ; also copy of letter from James A. Wright, jr. 
(no (late), resenting a criticism on the steamer St. Louis. Ordered to 
be filed and acknowledged. 

Dr. Conner stated that he had received a long letter from Woodbridge 
G. Osborne, jr., dated Portland, Me., December 9, 1898, which letter 
was ordered referred to the adjutant general of the State of Maine, with 
the request that he forward it to the colonel of the regiment for inves- 
ti<.riition, and to return the letter with the report to this Commission. 

A letter dated Washington, D. C, December 8, 1898, was received 
from Surgeon-General Sternberg, submitting communications from A. H. 
Wincliester, Bu(;kliannon, W. Va., dated at Cartagena, Coloinbia, 
November 3, 1898, to Mr. Eafael Madrigal, transmitted through the 
State Department. Letters ordered filed. 

A letter was read from Col. Crosby P. Miller, Quartermaster's Depart- 
ment, dated Washington, D. C, December 7, 1898; also letter from 
Marion McMillan, caj)tain and assistant quartermaster, United States 
Volunteers, Huntsville, Ala., December 8, 1898. Ordered filed and to 
be printed with testimony. 

Keference from Adjutant-General's Office, December 9, 1898, in 
response to request from President Dodge, under date of December 6, 
relative to ground lease for camps. Ordered filed with Adjutant-Gen- 
eral's rej)ort. 

A letter was read from James H. Ferriss, dated Joliet, 111., December 
G, 1898, inclosing statement from Mr. Maloney; also statement from 
Chaplain O'Dell in response to letter from Commission, dated Novem- 
ber 19, 1898. Ordered filed and that Mr. Maloney be called as a 
witness, and that Dr. Huidekoper be recalled. 

A letter was read from Vfilliam H. Caine, dated Minneapolis, Minn., 
November 10, 1898, together with clipping from the St. Paul Globe, 
December 5, 1898. It was ordered that the secretary write Mr. Caine to 
appear at 508 Johnson Building, Cincinnati, Ohio, at 3 p. m. December 
23, for examination by Dr. Conner. Witness fees and transportation 
to be furnished. Papers to be referred to Dr. Conner. 

It was directed that the secretary write a letter to Mr. Knox, hatter. 
New York City, asking him if the papers in reference to the Philadel- 
Xjhia hat contract have been returned to bim, and to say that the War 



MINUTES OP THE COMMISSION. 75 

Commission, should he so desire, will be glad to have him appear before 
it at such time during the present week as may be agreeable to him. 

A letter was read from H. R. Duval, president Florida Central and 
Peninsular llailroad Company, dated New York, December 9, 1898, in 
reply to a letter from President Dodge to Mr. Coleman. Ordered tiled 
and acknowledged. 

Brig. Gen. Adolphus W. Greely, Chief Signal Officer, appeared 
before the Commission as a witness, and, having no objection, he was 
duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., took a recess until 2 o'clock. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 p. m. and went into executive 
session. 

Brigadier-General Greely then resumed and concluded his testimony. 

Brig. Gen. Charles P. Eagan, Commissary-General of Subsistence, 
appeared as a witness, and having no objections, he was dulj^ sworn 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, 
the 13th iust. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SIXTY-FOUETH DAY. 

War Departjient, 
Washington^ I), C, December 13, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all mem- 
bers being present. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Brigadier-General Eagan continued and concluded his testimony. 

Telegram from VV. H. Kyan to General Beaver read, denying having 
made any complaints. Ordered tiled. 

Col. Albert J. Hartsuflt was recalled and testified. (See transcript 
of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. ' 

Colonel Hartsuff" concluded his testimony. 

Col. F. L. Gunther, Fourth Artillery United States Army, appeared 
as a witness, and, having no objection, he was duly sworn, and his 
testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission then went into executive session and passed the 
following resolution : 

liesolved, That the disbursing officer is authorized to pay, upon proper vouchers, 
when approved by the presiding ofiicer of the C'uinuiission, $5 per day for expenses 
to each the recorder and the disbursing officer of this Commission, said per diem to 
be paid from the date of each ofQcer's entry on duty with the Couiuiission. 



IC) INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The letter of Geueral Greely, witb the accoinpaiiyiiig- j)apers, was 
rend to the Commission, and it was directed that the letters be returned 
to the Chief Signal OfBcer and Commissary-General of Subsisteace, 
with the following indorsement: 

Kf'spectfnlly returned. In the opinion of the Commission, General Greely's testi- 
mony was along the line and in perfect accord with the testimony of General Eagan 
himself, viz: that the Commissary-General should have the power to provide every- 
thing necessary to put the food in the mouths of the American soldier. 

The Commission, at 4.45 p. m., adjourned, to meet at 10 a. m. 
to morrow, the 14th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder, 



SIXTY-FIFTH DAY. 

Wab Department, 
Washington,, D. C, December 14, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and their testimony talvcn (see transcript 
of same): Father Kelly, chaplain. Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry; 
Maj. B. F. Pope, surgeon. United States Army. 

A letter from Dr, M. S. French, National Belief Association, was read. 
Ordered died, and marked ''Special," so it can be printed. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock, when Major Pope resumed 
and concluded his testimony. 

Br. Urban S. Bird appeared before the Commission, and, having no 
objection he was duly sworn, and his testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Thurs- 
day, the 15th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SIXTY-SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
WasJiinfjton, 1). C, December 15, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 77 

Maj. Gen. John R. Brooke appeariug as a witness before the Com- 
mission, and, having no objection, he was duly sworn and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock, and General Brooke 
resumed and concluded his testimony. 

The Commission, at 4.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Friday, 
the 16th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



• SIXTY-SEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washinrjton, I). C, December 16, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members present save Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The following- witnesses appeariug before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same) : Brig. Gen. John F. Weston, United States Volunteers, 
colonel and assistant commissary-general, United States Army; Rev. 
Dr. Henry McCook. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same) : Brig. 
Gen. M. I. Ludington, Quartermaster-General United States Army; 
Brig. Geu. John M. Wilson, Chief of Engineers. 

The Commission went into executive session and passed the follow- 
ing resolution : 

Resolved, That the disbursing officer of this Commission is authorized to pay, 
upon proper vouchers when approved by the presiding officer of the Commission, 
the compensation of the nine members ; also the expenses of the recorder and the dis- 
bursing officer, as set forth in the foregoiug resolutions of December 12 and 13, 1898. 

Further, That, as suggested by the Comptroller of the Treasury, this resolution be 
submitted to the President of the United States for his approval, in accordance with 
the act of Congress in regard to the expenditure of the appropriation for national 
defense. 

The Commission, at 4.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Satur- 
day, the 17th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



78 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

SIXTY-EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, December 17, 189f^. 

The Commission met pursuunt to adjourument at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present save Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the Snrgeon-General United States Army, 
inclosing- a letter from Maj. Thomas (). Summers, surgeon Second Ten- 
nessee Yolnnteers. Ordered filed. Also a letter, together with a news- 
paper clipping, from Asst. Surg. J. Stebbins King, United States Army. 
Order filed. 

A letter was received from Dr. J. M. Jenne, St. Albans, Vt., inclos- 
ing certificates and affidavits in re charges made against Dr. Jenne. 
Ordered marked "special," and certificates and affidavits to be printed. 

A letter was received from Dr. Samuel D. Hubbard, late major and 
surgeon, Ninth New York Volunteers, inclosing affidavit in reference 
to case of Jaoob Frank, quartermaster-sergeant Ninth New I'ork Vol- 
unteers. Ordered marked "special," and same to be printed. 

Brig. Gen. G. N. Lieber, Judge- Advocate-General United States 
Army, appearing as a witness, and having no objection, he was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Mon- 
day, the 19th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



SIXTY-NINTH DAY. 

War Department, 
WasUngton, I). C, December 19, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

On motion of Governor Woodbury, which was duly seconded, it was 
ordered that Dr. Conner be detailed to go to Cincinnati, Ohio, to take 
testimony at such time as President Dodge may direct. 

It was ordered that letter from Dr. Culp in regard to Dr. Jenne be 
placed on fi.le, but not printed in the report. 

A letter was received from Col. J. G. C. Lee in regard to the issue 
of hospital tents. It was ordered that the Quartermaster-General be 
requested to furnish this Commission, at the earliest moment practica- 
ble, with a statement of the date of issue of tents at Camp Thomas: 
not the date of the order, but the date of delivery to the troops. 

A joint letter was received Irom Senator Turley and liepresentative 
E. W. Carmack in regard to the death of George Mayes, private, 
Comi)auy I, Second Tennessee Volunteer Infantry. Ordered that the 
same be referred to the Adjutant-General, asking him to furnish the 
Commission with what information he can obtain in this matter. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 79 

A letter w;is received from George W. Grover, inclosing copy of a 
letter addressed to the Surgeon-General, under date of October 4, 
1898. Ordered that letter to tlie Commission be made part of tbe 
records. 

A letter was received from MaJ. li. F. Pope, surgeon, United States 
Army, recj nesting tbat same be added to bis testimony. It was ordered 
that Major Pope's request be complied witli, and that said letter be 
printed with Major Pope's testimony and made part thereof. 

A letter w\as received from George Schmidt, ex-private, Company B, 
Second United States Volunteer Engineers, comidaining of his treat- 
ment at Montauk Point. Ordered that same be referred to the 
Adjutant-General for such action as he may deem necessary, and that 
Mr. Schmidt be advised of the action taken. 

A letter was received from Dr. Charles D. Napier, Brooklyn, N. Y., 
in regard to certain conditions existing at Camp Wikott". Ordered 
marked " special," and to be printed in the records. 

The letter of the Kev. Teunis S. Hamlin, pastor Church of the Cov- 
enant, of October 8, 1898, was ordered given to the press. 

Dr. Anita Newcomb McGee, acting assistant surgeon, United States 
Army, appeared as a witness, and having no objection she was duly 
sworn and her testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock and went into executive 

session. 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, 

the 20th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



SEVENTIETH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, December 20, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present. 

^he secretary and recorder were also present. 

Capt. A. E. Hardy, Fifth Illinois Volunteers, appeared as a witness, 
and having no objection, he was duly sworn and his testimony taken. 
(See transcript of same.) 

The Commission went into executive session. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

afternoon session. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

Brig. Gen. William E. Shafter, United States Army, and Major- 
General, United States Volunteers, appearing as a witness, and having 



80 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

110 objection, was duly sworu aud his testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 
The Commission, at 4.40 j). m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., 

Wednesday, the 21st instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-FIRST DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington D. C, December 21, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The Coniniission went into executive session. 

A letter to Gen. IsT. A. Miles was ordered written and sent. 

It was ordered that the employees of the Commission be given the 
time from Friday afternoon until Tuesdaj^ morning as a holiday recess. 

Lieut. Col. John D. jMiley, United States Volunteers (first lieutenant, 
Fifth United States Artillery), appeared as a witness, and having no 
objection lie was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 

Maj. Gen. Nelson A. Miles, United States Army, appeared at the 
request of the Commission, and on being asked if he was williug to be 
sworn, he said he did not think it necessary to be sworn as he could 
tell all he knew without being sworn, and "was responsible for what 
he said." (See transcript of his statement.) 

The Commission, at 1.15 p. m., took a recess to meet at 2.30 o'clock 

p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2.30 j). m. 

Maj. Gen. Wesley Merritt, United States Army, appeared before the 
Commission as a witness, and having no objection he was duly sworn 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission went into executive session. 

The Commission, at 4.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 22d instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-SECOND DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, December 33, 1898. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjourument at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Dr. Conner and General Beaver. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 81 

Brig. Gen. Henry C. Corbin, Adjutant-General United States Array, 
appeared as a witness before the Commission, and having no objection 
he was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

Tlie Commission, at 12.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m,, Fri- 
day, the 23d instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-THIRD DAY. 

War Department, 
Washhu/ton, D. C, December 23, 1898. 
The Commission mot pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present, Colonel Denby and General Wilson. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Maj. Gen, O. O. Howard, United States Army, retired, appeared as 
a witness, and having no objection was duly sworn and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Tuesday, the 27th 
instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



WOSE OF SUBCOMMITTEE— DH. COXXER. 

Cincinnati, Ohio, December 23, 1898. 
The following witnesses appeared before Dr. Conner, sitting as a 
representative of the Commission, and having no objection they were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Joseph 
P. Wright, assistant surgeon -general. United States Army; Maj. 
George H. Torney, surgeon. United States Array. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Waskhujton, I). C, December 27, 1898. 
The Commission raet pursuant to adjournraent at 10 a. ra. 
Present : Colonel Denby, General Wilson, and Dr. Conner. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter from Edward A. Oldhara was ordered returned, together with 
report of Comraissary-General in re Jacob Dold Packing Company. 

A letter from Nelson Hersch was answered referring to matter of 
Wilham E. Ryan. 

A letter was acknowledged from Paula Piatt, Cincinnati, Ohio. 
A letter was written to Dr. W, H. Caine, jVIinneapolis, Minn., who 
had been requested to appear before the Commission both at Chicago 
7833— VOL. 1 () 



82 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

aud Cincinnati, asking that he forward the Oommissiou a statement of 
facts in the form of an affidavit. 

The Commission, at 10.45 a. m., adjourned, to meet at 10 o'clock a. m., 
Wednesday, the 28th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-FIFTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, B. C, December 28, 1898. 

The Commissiou met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present: Colonel Denby, General Wilson, General McCook, and Dr. 
Conner. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Swift & Co., Chicago, 111. January 4 was 
set for their appearance. 

A letter from Col. W. H. Baldwin to Hon. George C. Perkins, in 
re amount of purchase made at his depot, San Francisco, May 1 to 
November 30, transmitted through Adjutant-General's Office. 

A letter was received from Eev. John F. Hurst, inclosing resolution 
on the canteen in the Army. Referred to the Secretary of War. 

A letter was received from Dr. Wm. H. Caine, Minneapolis, Minn., 
dated December 21. Eeferred to Dr. Conner. 

A letter was received from Dr. L. W. Hilliard. Form No. 2 was 
sent to him. 

Sergt. Wm. W. Hill, First District of Columbia Volunteers, appeared 
at the request of the Commission, and having no objection he was 
duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 11.30 a. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 29th instance. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY^-SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, B. C, December 29, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present: Colonel Denby, General Wilson, General McCook, and Dr. 
Conner. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Gen. Thomas M. Anderson, United States 
Volunteers, charging General Babcock with carrying away portions of 
civil records of Manila, Philippine Islands. Eeferred to General 
Babcock for his information. 



MINUTES OP THE COMMISSION. 83 

A letter was received from General Dodge, having reference to details 
of the Commission's work. Ordered filed. 

The Commission went into executive session, and adjourned at 11.30 
a. ni., to meet at 10 a. in. Friday, the 30th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-SEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washinf/ton, D. C, December 30, 1898. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present: Colonel Deuby, General Wilson, General McCook, and Dr. 
Conner. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the Adjutant-General, transmitting copies 
of daily reports made by the commanding general at Chickamauga 
National Park from June G to July 18, and the action of the Depart- 
ment thereon. Held for action of the full Commission. 

A letter was received from W. E. Ball, Company G, Second West Vir- 
ginia Volunteers, transmitted through Hon. M. A. Hanna. Referred 
to Adjutant-General Ilnited States Army for attention. 

Telegram was received from G. F. Swift, of Swift & Co., stating his 
intention to appear before the Commission on January 9. 

The Commission went into executive session, and adjourned at 11.30 
a. m., to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, January 3, 18U9. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department," 
Washington, B. C, January 3, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present: Colonel Denby, General Wilson, General McCook, General 
Beaver, and Dr. Conner. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the adjutant-general of the State of Maine, 
inclosing report of L. H. Kendall, First Maine Volunteer Infantry. 
Ordered filed, but not to be printed. 

A letter was received from Dr. G. E. Payne, Atlanta, Ga., inclosing 
clipping from Gallard's Medical Journal, New York City. Ordered 
filed. 

A letter was received from Private John J. Burleson, Company C, 
Seventh United States Infantry, in re meat furnished Santiago expedi- 
tion. Ordered filed. 



84 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

A letter was received from Wm. H. Caine, Minneapolis, Minn., dated 
December 29, 1898, stating why he did not appear before the Commis- 
sion at Chicago or Cincinnati. Ordered acknowledged. 

A letter from Mrs. E. C. Allis, Kew York City, dated December 29, 
1898, in re burial of soldiers at Camp Wikoff. Ordered acknowledged. 

The following copy of cablegram was received, transmitted through 
Adjutant-General : 

[Cablegram.] 

Havana, January 2, 1S99. 
Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C. : 

Will leave here Wednesday unless my departure can be longer delayed. There la 
every reason in the interests of the public service why I should remain here until the 
last day, 

Humphrey. 

Directed that the Adjutant- General be informed that it would suit 
the Commission if General Humphrey sailed on Wednesday, or if the 
exigencies of the service required his presence in Havana it would suit 
the Commission if General Humphrey appeared within ten days. 

A letter was received from the Adjutant-General's Office, stating 
that Maj. W. H. Carleton might have important information. Major 
Oarleton ordered summoned. 

Papers in re death of Albert Kost, private. Company H, Seventh 
Ohio Infantry, referred to Adjutant-General for such action as he may 
deem necessary. Not within scope of War Investigation Commission. 

Communication was received from General Otis, dated Manila, Philip- 
pine Islands, November 19, 1898, reporting condition of quartermaster, 
commissary, and medical departments under his supervision from May 
17 last. Ordered acknowledged and printed. 

A letter was received from E. Meyer, New Orleans, La. Answered. 

Col. James M. Moore reappeared before the Commission, wishing to 
make some corrections in his testimony. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 11.45 a. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Wed- 
nesday, the 4th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



SEVENTY-NINTH DAY. 

War Department, 
WasMngton, JD. C, January 4, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present, all members, except General Dodge, and Colonel Sexton, 
wlio was absent sick. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection were duly sworn and tbeir testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same) : Maj. G, H. Hopkins, assistant adjutant-general, United 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 85 

States Volunteers; Maj. D. B. Harrison, Ninth United States Volunteer 
Infantry. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 5th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTIETH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, January o, 1899, 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present, all members excei>t General Dodge and Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Maj. H. B. Osgood, commissary of subsistence, United States Army, 
appeared as a witness, and having no objection, he was duly sworn 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

A telegram from Major-Greneral Brooke, in regard to the appearance 
of General Humphrey, was ordered answered as follows: 

ADJUTANT-(iENERAL UNITED STATES ARMY, 

Washington, D. C. 
Sir: In answer to the cablegram of Major-General Brooke of January 2, relative 
to the appearance of General Humphrey before this Commission, the Commission 
has to say that, in their opinion, the public service requires that the testimony of 
(Jeueral Humphrey be taken by the Commission at Washington. 

Charles Denby, Vice-President. 

The complaints of A. R. Turner and H. C. Locke were returned, with 
results of investigation. 

Ordered that a letter be sent to Gen. N. A. Miles, commanding the 
Army, requesting him to return the statement made by him before 
the Commission at his earliest convenience, as the Commission desires 
to send it to the Public Printer. 

The Commission, at 12.10 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Fri- 
day, the Cth instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTY-FIRST DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington^ J). C, January 6, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the (Quartermaster- General under date 
of December 21, 1898. Ordered tiled and printed. 

A letter was received from General Shafter under date of December 
21, 1898. Ordered filed. 



86 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Lieut. Col. H. C. Sharpe, assistant commissary-general, United States 
Army, appearing before the Commission as a witness, and having no 
objection, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript 
of same.) 

A letter was received from General Eagan of December 22, 1898. 
Eead and ordered answered. 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. ra., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Satur 

day, the 7th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTY SECOND DAY. 

War Department, 
Washingion, D. C, January 7, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Dr. Milton li. Keeley, Dwight, 111., under 
date of January 4. Ordered filed with reference to testimony of Cap- 
tain Hardy, Fifth Illinois. 

A letter was received from M. A. Pease, Canton, Ohio. Answered 
by No. 2. 

A telegram from General Weston, dated January 6. Ordered liled. 

Letter from Dr. Thomas O. Summers submitted through Secretary 
of War. Ordered that Dr. Summers be requested to forward an affi- 
davit of what he knows. 

Moved and carried that the different firms interested in the beef fur- 
nished the Army be requested to appear before the Commission to tes- 
tify as to the quality of beef furnished. 

Maj. J. D. Black, commissary of subsistence, United States Volun- 
teers, appeared as a witness, and having no objection he was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Mon- 
day, the 9th instant. • 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTY-THIRD DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, I). C, January 9, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present, all members except General Dodge (sick at hotel in Wash- 
ington), General Beaver, and Colonel Sexton (sick at hotel in Wash- 
ington). 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 87 

A letter was received from Mrs. E. C. Allis, ISTew York City, dated 
January 6, 1899. It was ordered that the letter be referred to the Sec- 
retary of War, asking him to have the Quartermaster-General detail 
an officer to be present while the bodies are being disinterred at Camp 
Wikofi', to ascertain the number tliat were buried unclothed, and who 
was responsible for it. 

A letter was received from the Inspector-General requesting evidence 
regarding meat furnished the Army during the late war. Directed 
that the printed portion be sent him, and he be informed that the 
remainder will be sent to him as received from the Public Printer. 

Telegrams were received from the following beef-packing companies 
giving notice of their willingness to appear before the Commission at 
its pleasure: The Cudahy Packing Company, South Omaha, Nebr.; 
Armour Packing Company. Kansas City, Mo,; Armour & Co., Chicago, 
111.; Nelson, Morris & Co., Chicago, 111, 

A letter was received from the Adjutant-General requesting the Com- 
mission's pleasure as to the appearance before it of Brigadier-General 
Weston. Answered that the Commission desires General Weston to 
appear before it when it is safe for him to do so, 

A letter was received from the Surgeon-General addressed to Dr. 
Conner, in reply to a letter from Dr. Conner requesting papers, tele- 
grams, etc., of General Shafter, referred to by General Miles in his 
statement before the Commission. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from the Commissary-General of Subsistence, 
transmitting extract from cable message from Lieut, Col. Eugene T. 
Wilson, purchasing and depot commissary, dated January 7, at San- 
tiago, relative to the supply of me^t furnished the troops at that place. 

The following witnesses appeared before the Commission, and having 
no objection they were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see 
transcript of same): Fred W. Wilder, Chicago, 111.; Edward Bucking- 
ham, Chicago, 111.; John J. Murphy, Chicago, 111.; Horace C. Gardner, 
Chicago, 111. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock, and the testimony of ^Ir. 
Gardner was concluded. 

The following witnesses appeared, and having no objection were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): Charles 
E. Barry, Chicago, 111.; Gustavus F. Swift, Chicago, 111. 

The Commission, at 4.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tues- 
day, the 10th instant. 

S. C. MiLLSj Recorder. 



88 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

EIGHTY-FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, January 10, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except General Dodge, General Beaver, and 
Colonel Sexton. 

TLe secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the Commissary-General inclosing list of 
parties wlio might be of value as witnesses. Returned to the Secretary 
of War. The Commission has not asked for these officers, but will be 
glad to hear them if they have evidence of importance. 

The lollowing witnesses appearing before the Commissiou, and hav- 
ing no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same) : Lieut. Col. U. J. Gallagher, commissary of subsistence; 
Capt. James C. Read, commissary of subsistence. 

The Commission, at 12.10 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Wed- 
nesday the 11th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTY-FIFTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Wasliington, D. C, January 11, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except General Dodge, General Beaver, and 
Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the Adjutant-General referring to General 
Humphrey. Ordered filed. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcript of same): 
Edward Tilden, Chicago, 111,; Arthur Meeker, Chicago, 111.; William 
P. Wardrop, Chicago, 111. (recalled); T. J. Conners, New York City; 
George J. Brine, Chicago, 111. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

The following witnesses appearing, and having no objection, were 
duly sworn and their testimony taken (see transcrii)t of same): 
Jennette Jennings; Dr. W. O. Atwater, professor of chemistry. 

The Commission, at 4.45 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 12th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 89 

EIGHTY-SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, Jan nary 12, 1899. 

Tlie Oommissiou met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a m., all mem- 
bers being present except General Dodge, General Beaver, and Colouel 
Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Jennette Jennings recalled and continued her testimony. 

William D. Miles, Kansas City, ]\Io., appearing as a witness, and 
having no objections, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See 
transcript of same.) 

Eeports from Lieut. Cols. O. E. Wood and A. L. Smith, chief com- 
missaries of subsistence, received from Secretary of War. Ordered 
filed and printed. 

Telegram referring to Dr. Daly received from Adjutant-General's 
Office. Ordered iiled. 

Letter received from F. B. Thurber. Ordered filed. Not desired as 
a witness. 

The Commission then went into executive session. 

Brig. Gen. C. P. Eagan, Commissary-General, recalled at his own 
request and submitted typewritten sworn statement. (See transcript 
of same.) 

The Commission then went into executive session. 

Moved, that the Commissiou receive General Eagau's testimony without com- 
uient ; that it be uot printed at ouce, l»ut held for the consideration of the whole 
Coiumission. Carried. 

Brigadier-General Eagan then continued his testimony. 

The Commission, at 1.50 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Friday, 

the 13th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



EIGHTY-SEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, January 13, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all mem- 
bers being present except General Dodge, General Beaver, and Colonel 
Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 
The Commission then went into executive session. 
The following letter was sent to General Eagan: 

Brig. Gen. C. P. Eagan, 

Commissary-General, War Department. 

Sir: We respectfully inform you that after your testimony was read yesterday the 
following resolution was unniiniously passed: 

" Moved, that the Commission receive General Eagan's testimony without com- 



90 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

ment ; tliat it be not printed at once, but lield for the cousideratiou of tlie whole 
Commission. Carried." 

Hiiviug now considered the questions involved, we have determined that in many 
instances the vituperative language used by you was not such as ought to have been 
addressed as a witness to this board. We think that the personal attacks and 
irrelevant statements contained in the paper submitted should be eliminated, and 
before receiving it as testimony we request that you will revise its language and, if 
you choose, resubmit it for our consideration. 

We herewith return your papers. 

Very respectfully, Charles Denby, 

Vice-President. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Maj. Gen. Leonard Wood, United States Volunteers; 
Maj. George ^Y. Ivuthers, commissary of subsistence; Mr. Ehoderick 
Scott, South Omaha, Nehr. ; Maj. James M. Arrasmith, commissary of 
subsistence. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

A letter was ordered to be written to Col. J. M. Brown, Medical 
Department, in regard to statement of issues on requisitions. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Satur- 
day, the Mth instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder, 



EIGHTY-EIGHTH DAY. 

War Departmj^nt, 
WasJiington, D. (7., January 14, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except General Dodge, General Beaver, and 
Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and having 
no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same) : Maj. H. H. Carleton, inspector- general. United States 
Volunteers; Maj. F. A. Smith, commissary of subsistence, United 
States Volunteers. 

General Humphrey appeared before the Commission, and requested 
that he might be excused from testifying until Monday, the 16th instant. 
So ordered. 

The Commission, at 11:30 a. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Mon- 
day, the 16th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 91 

EIGHTY-NINTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, D. C, Jantuinj 10, 1899, 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except General Beaver and Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The following witnesses appearing before the Commission, and har- 
iDg no objection, were duly sworn and their testimony taken (see tran- 
script of same): Frank Vogel, of Nelson Morris & Co., Chicago, 111.; 
Capt. E. J. C. Irvine, Eleventh United States Infantry; Brig. Gen. 
Charles F. Humphrey, United States Volunteers, lieutenant-colonel, 
Quartermaster's Department, United States Army. 

A letter was received from Gen. Charles P. Eagan transmitting his 
revised testimony. Ordered tliat copies of the letter be given to the 
press if asked for by them. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock, when General Humphrey 
concluded his testimony. (See transcript of same.) 

Capt. Homer F. Aspinwall, Quartermaster's Department, appearing 
as a witness, and having no objection, was duly sworn and his testi- 
mony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 4.10 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tues- 
day, the 17th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



NINETIETH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, B. C, January 17, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present excejit General Beaver and Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from the Surgeon-General in case of J. W. 
Berry. Referred to secretary. 

Col. Charles H. Gibson appearing as a witness, and having no objec- 
tion, was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of 
same.) 

General Eagan's revised statement considered. It was ordered that 
it be admitted as evidence, and that the press could make copies of 
same, or if they would wait until it was printed copies will be furnished 
them. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Wed- 
nesday, the 18th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



92 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

NINETY-FIRST DAY. 

War Department, 
WasMngton, T). C, January 18, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except General Beaver and Colonel Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 
' The Commission went into executive session. 

A letter was read from the Inspector-General, United States Army. 
Ordered answered. 

Ordered that certain interrogatories be sent to Brig. Gen. J. F. 
Weston, United States Yoluuteers. 

The Commission, at 12.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 19th instant. 

S. O. Mills, Recorder. 



NINETY-SECOND DAY. 

War Department, 
Washinf/ton, T). C, January 19,1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present save Colonel Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session, and at 10.45 a. m. took 
a recess until 2 o'clock ]). m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock, and again went into execu- 
tive session. 

A letter was received from Maj. Gen. N. A. Miles, Commanding the 
Army. Ordered, that a letter be written to General Miles requesting 
that the Commission be furnished with a copy of his letter calling for 
reports on the quality of beef furnished the troops, and the originals of 
all replies thereto received. These reports will be returned to him. 

The Commission, at 1.20 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m., Friday, 
the 20tli instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



NINETY-THIRD DAY. 

War Department, 
Washmgton, D. C, January 30, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 93 

The Commission then went into executive session. 

Maj. Wilham H. Daly, late surgeon, United States Volunteers, ap- 
pearing as a witness, and having no objection, he was duly sworn, 
and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock and went into executive 
session. 

Major Daly resumed the stand and continued his testimony. 

The Commission again went into executive session, and, at 4.30 p. m., 
adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Saturday, the 21st instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



NINETY-FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, January 21, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from General Miles inclosing original reports 
in re canned fresh roast beef furnished the troops in Cuba and Porto 
Rico. Ordered filed. 

Paymaster Thomas H. Hicks, United States Navy, appeared as a wit- 
ness, and having no objection was duly sworn, and his testimony 
taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission went into executive session. 

Prof. Frank W. Clarke, Geological Survey, appeared as a witness, 
and having no objection he was duly sworn and his testimony taken. 
(See transcript of same.) 

The Commission, at 12.45 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

Paymaster-General H. G. Colby, United States Navy, appeared as a 
witness and having no objections, he was duly sworn and his testi- 
mony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission went into executive session, and, at 3.30 p. m., 
adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Monday, the 23d instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder, 



94 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

NINETY-FIFTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Wushington, D. C, January 23, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., aU the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

A letter was received from General Eagan requesting certified copy 
of General Miles's statement. Ordered sent. 

A letter was received from W. S. French in re testimony of Colonel 
Gibson. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Hon. John D. Long in re analysis of beef 
samj)les. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from F. J. Mather, New York City, as to his 
inability to furnish certain affidavits. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Hon. Thomas Kyan, Acting Secretary of 
Interior, in re beef analysis. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from H. P. Smith, New York City, suggesting 
witnesses as to beef. Answered by No. 2. 

A letter was received from Hon. James ¥/ilson. Secretary of Agri- 
culture, transmitting samples of meat, inspection tags, seals, etc. 
Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Capt. L. C. Scherer, transmitting extract 
from report of Alfred E. Hunt, late of Light Battery B, Pennsylvania 
Volunters, having reference to analysis of certain canned roast beef. 
Ordered filed special and to be printed. 

It was ordered that copy of letter from Surgeon Woodhull, of Josiah 
Simpson General Hospital, be sent to H. F. Thompson, Portsmouth, 
Ohio. 

The Commission, at 12.30, took a recess until 2 p. m. 

afternoon SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock. 

D. E. Salmon, appearing as a witness, and having no objection, was 
duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

A letter was received from General Miles, saying he would open 
package containing cans of beef if Commission would send a member 
or messenger over. The recorder went over and was present at the 
opening of the package, and brought back two cans of roast beef, 
Wilson Packing Company, New Y'ork; 2 cans fresh boiled beef, Armour 
Canning Company, Chicago, 111.; 1 can roast beef, Armour Packing 
Company, Kansas City, Mo., which were held for examination of the 
Commission. 

The Commission, at 4.451). ™'> adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, 
the 24th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 95 

NINETY-SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington D. C, January 34, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. Present, 
all members except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Miss J. McKinley, Atlanta, Ga., addressed 
to Secretary Alger, in re beef furnished Camp Hobson, referred to Com- 
mission. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from George D. Moulton, New Y'ork City, 
inclosing newspaper clipping. Ordered filed and answered by No. 1. 

A letter was received from General Miles, dated January 21, inclos- 
ing letter from Dr. E. P. Murdock, Chicago, 111., in re canned beef. 
Ordered marked special and copy given to the jiress. 

Ordered that a copy of letter from Captain Scherer and accompany- 
ing letter be given to the jn^ess. 

A letter was received from Ilabbi E. B. M. Browne, Columbus, Ga. 
Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Carlton E. Sterrett, assistant surgeon, 
Third Illinois Volunteers, inclosing synopsis of what he can testify to. 
Ordered filed and answered by No. 1. 

A letter was received from W. H. Daly, late major and chief surgeon 
of volunteers, inclosing list of names of parties who came North on 
transport Panama. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from C. W. Monroe, Cleveland, Ohio, in re beef 
analysis made by Major Daly. Ordered filed and answered by No. 1. 

A letter was received from Capt. L. C. Scherer requesting tliat Com- 
mission furnish board of survey with a copy of testimony of W. H. Daly, 
late major and surgeon. United States Volunteers. Ordered that copy 
be furnished the board when printed. 

Maj. K. M. Townsend, chief commissary of subsistence, United States 
Volunteers, appearing as a witness, and having no objection, was duly 
sworn and his testimony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

During the testimony of Major Townsend, General Beaver presented 
a can of roast beef and asked the major if it resembled the beef that 
was furnished the Army, so far as he knew. He answered, it did. 
The can presented was labeled "No. 2" and marked "Beceived from 
Maj. Gen. N. A. Miles, U. S. A., January 23, 1891); taken from express 
package opened in General Miles's ofiBce in my presence. S. C. Mills, 
recorder." It was opened by the recorder in the presence of the Com- 
mission, and it was ordered that the can be sent to Professor Clarke, of 
the Geological Survey, for chemical examination. 

The Commission went into executive session until 12.30 j). m., when 
Commission took a recess until 2 o'clock p. m. 



96 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OP WAR WITH SPAIN. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock and went into executive 
session until 4.30 p. m., when they adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thurs- 
day, the 2Gth instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



IJriNETY-SEVENTH DAT. 

War Department, 

Washington, I). C, January 26, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from William E. Curtis, Washington, D. C, in 
re canned beef brought back from Cuba by Captain Groom, First Troop 
Philadelphia Cavalry. Ordered that Captain Groom be asked to send 
some of the cans to the Commission. 

A letter was received from the Surgeon-General's Office stating that 
there was no record in that office of any special report having been 
received from Maj. W. H. Daly. Ordered tiled. 

A letter was received from W. F. Osborne requesting copy of testi- 
mony of Professor Clarke, in re chemical analysis of beef. Ordered 
filed, and that copy of testimony requested be sent to Mr. Osborne 
when printed. 

A letter was received from Col. George B. Davis, acting commissary- 
general, inclosing names of parties who might have information of 
value. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from the Adjutant-General's Office submitting 
map of Camp Wikoff, and re(iuesting that map be returned when it has 
served its purpose. Ordered that letter be filed and request be com- 
plied with. 

A letter was received from the Quartermaster-General's Office, in re 
log of army transport Mohile, January IG to August 18. Ordered filed. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

Hon. R. A. Alger, Secretary of War, appeared at the request of the 
Commission, and having no objection he was duly sworn and his tes- 
timony taken. (See transcript of same.) 

The Commission went into executive session, and at 1 p. m. adjourned 
to meet at 10 a. m. Friday, the 27th instant. 

S. 0. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 97 

NINETY-EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, January 27, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being' present except General Beaver and Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

An affidavit was received from Maj, Gen. William Ludlow, United 
States Volunteers. Ordered received as evidence, and copy given to 
the press. 

A letter was read from a correspondent of the New York Journal, giv- 
ing name of Col. II. G. Giddings as a valuable witness in regard to beef 
contracts. Ordered that Colonel Giddings be asked to appear beiore 
the Commission as a witness. The following statements show the result: 

[Office of Commisaiou appointed by the President to investigate the conduct of tlie War Department 

in the war with Spain.] 

January 27, 1899. 
The Commission: 

Oexti.kmen: About 11 o'clock this foreuoon, in coinpliauoe -with your instruc- 
tious, I sent to Col. H. G. Gidding-s, at the Coicoran Buildiug, a note in the usual 
form, asking him to report at 2 p. m. for the purpose of giving testimony in this 
investigation. The messenger returned with a verbal message to the effect that lie 
(Giddings) could not appear — that he knew nothing about it. I append the messen- 
ger's report. 

Very respectfully, Kichd. Weigiitman, Secretary. 

Washington, D. C, January 27, 1899. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that a letter addressed to Col. H. G. Giddings, 
Corcoran Buildiug, was delivered by me, and received a verbal reply to the Com- 
mission that he had nothing to testify to, and had nothing to say. 
Respectfully, 

M. J. Deponai, Messenger, 

The Commission went into executive session, and at 1 p. ir,. adjourned 
to meet at 2 i). m. in executive session at General Dodge's rooms. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



NIl^ETY-NINTH DAY. 

War DEPART3IENT, 

Washington, D. C, January 2S, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Walter L. Ball, Fredericktown, Ohio. 
Ordered liled. 

A letter was received from the Acting Commissary-General, inclosing 
list of firms at j)reseut supplying the Army with fresh beef. Ordered 
filed. 

7833— VOL. 1 7 



98 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

A letter was received from W. H. Wiley, chief chemist, Department 
of Agriculture, submitting' report of beef analysis. Ordered filed. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

The following resolution was passed: 

Besolved, That upon the adjournment of the Comniissioji, after signing its report, 
the recorder aud the secretary be retained on duty until all records of every character 
are properly arranged for final file and record, and tliat the recorder hereby is 
authorized to continue for this purpose such clerks and other employees as may be 
required. 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Monday, 
the aoth instant. g_ q^ Mills, Recorder. 



O^E HUNDREDTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Washington, J). C, Jaunarij 30, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjonrnment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary aud recorder were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

Ordered that an abstract of report of MaJ. J. H. Hepburn, Eighth 
United States Volunteers, dated January 28, 1899, be included in report 
on Camp George H. Thomas, and that a copy of same be given to the 
IDress. 

A letter was received from Prof. F. W. Clarke, Geological Survey, 
giving result of further analysis of beef samples. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Dr. G. M. Christine, Philadeli)hia, Pa., 
inclosing affidavit as to treatment of beef by Swift «& Co. Referred to 
Swift & Co., South Omaha, Nebr., for explanation by telegraph. 

A letter was received from the Commissary- General's Office, inclos- 
ing copy of cablegram as to shipment of beef from Ponce, Porto Eico. 
Ordered filed. 

Capt. John C. Groom, Philadelphia, Pa., writes as to samples of 
canned beef sent the Commission. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Gen. K. A. Miles as to payment of troops 
in Porto Eico during campaign. Ordered filed. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 3 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 3 o'clock and went into executive 
session. 
The following resolution was passed : 

liesoJred, That the records, testimony, and liled papers of this Commission be 
carefully aud properly boxed aud stored under the direction aud control of its 
president until after the 4th of March, 1901. 

The Commission, at 6 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, 
the 31st instant. g^ C. Mills, Recorder. 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 99 

ONE HUNDKED AND FIRST DAY. 

War Department, 
Washinf/ton, D. C, January 31, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 
The secretary and recorder were also present. 
The Commission went into executive session. 

A letter was received from Richard O. Morse, general secretary Inter- 
national Committee Young Men's Christian Association, inclosing report 
of its work during the recent war. Ordered marked special file and to 
be printed. 

The Commission, at 12 m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Wednesday, 
February 1. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



ONE HUNDRED AND SECOND DAY. 

War Department, 

WasMnrfton, B. C\, February 1, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

A letter was received from Prof. F. W. Clarke, Geological Survey, 
in re analysis of canned roast beef. Ordered marked " Special file," and 
to be printed. 

A letter was received from Adjutant-General United States Army, 
forwarding indorsements on letter of W. Clarke Marshall, October 19, 
1897. Ordered marked "Special," and be printed. 

A letter was received from Prof. W. H. Wiley, Department of Agri- 
culture, submitting report on examination of samples of fresh beef. 
Ordered marked " Special file," and to be printed. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock and went into executive 
session, and at 4.45 p. m. adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Thursday, Feb- 
ruary 2, 

S. 0. Mllls, Recorder, 



100 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

ONE HUNDKBD AND THIRD DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, February 2, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournmeut at 10 a. m., all the 
members being present except Colonel Sexton. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

The Inspector-General United States Army submitted certain 
papers, requesting that they be considered a part of his testimony. 
Ordered that as the matter contained in said papers did not relate to 
the subjects before the Commission, they did not deem it necessary to 
print them. 

A letter was received from John McLennon, dated January 30, 
inclosing affidavit regarding his statement of November 3, 1898. 
Ordered that it be referred to the Adjutant-General. 

A letter was received from Dr. F. I. Disbrow, New York, asking 
what had been done with his papers. Ordered that copies of same be 
returned to Dr. Disbrow, advising him that the originals were now a 
part of the files of the Commission. 

The Commission, at 12.30 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 o'clock and went into executive 

session, and, at 5.20 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Friday, the 3d 

instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



ONE HUNDRED AND FOURTH DAY. 

War Department, 

Waslmigton, B. C, February 3, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournmeut at 10 a. m. 

Present, Colonel Denby, General McCook, General Wilson, General 
Reaver, Governor Woodbury, and Dr. Conner. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session. 

A letter was received from General Miles, dated February 2, 1899. 
Ordered that same be printed as a supplement to his testimony. 

Benjamin Johnston, Utilla, Honduras, writes in reference to canned 
roast beef. Ordered filed. 

A letter was received from Frank Runders, transmitted through 
Secretary of War, asking permission to appear before the Commission. 
Ordered filed and answered by No. 2. 

A letter was received from a Mr. C. M. Campbell, of Washington, 
D. C, stating that Capt. Joseph Lee, of Georgetown, has information 



MINUTES OF THE COMMISSION. 101 

that might be of vahie. Ordered that Captain Lee be requested to 
submit any facts lie may have in the form of an affidavit. 

The Commission, at 5.15 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Satur- 
day, the 4th instant. 

' S. C. Mills, ivecoi-dtT. 



ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, D. C, February 4, 1890. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjonniment at 10 a. m. 

Present: Colonel Denby, General McCook, General Wilson, General 
Beaver, Governor Woodbury, and Dr. Conner. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Dr. Anita; McGee, asking for copies of 
her testimony. 

Prof. W. H. Wiley, submitted report of results of examination of 
refrigerated beef. 

A letter was received from Capt. J. S. Parke, Twenty-first Infantry, 
making changes in his testimony. 

Affidavit was received from Albert S. Holmes, in answer to letter of 
February 1. 

A telegram was received from Swift & Co., in answer to letter of 
J anuary 30. 

Adjutant-General United States Army submitted report in answer 
to indorsement of October 12, concerning complaints of rations at 
Honolulu. 

Adjutant- General United States Army submitted report of investi- 
gations of complaints of rations issued to Sixth Massachusetts Volun- 
teer Infantry, at Porto Rico. 

Commissary-General United States Army, forwarded letter received 
from Lieut. Col. E. T. Wilson, depot commissary, Santiago, Cuba. 

The Commission went into executive session until 1.20 p. m., when it 

adjourned to meet in executive session at General Beaver's rooms at 

7.30 p. m., and at the rooms of the Commission at 10 a. m. Monday, the 

0th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washhujfon, D. C, Fehruary 6, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present, all members. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Further statement was received from Major-Geueral Ludlow, United 
States Volunteers, to be printed as evidence. 



102 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

A letter was received from Joseph H. Lee, in answer to letter ol 
February 3. 

A letter was received from Frauk Rundus, Washington, D. 0. 

A letter was received from Maj. M. W. Wood, United States Volun- 
teers, in answer to letter of the 29th of December, 1898. 

The following resolution was ordered made a part of the official 
records of the Commission, in testimony of its appreciation and esteem 
of the deceased, and a copy to be sent to his family : 

The members of the Commission appointed by the President to investigate the 
conduct of the War Department in the war witli Spain have learned with profound 
regret of the deatli of Col. James A. Sexton, lately their colleague in the work con- 
fided to them by the Chief Executive, and being mindful of the patriotic virtues 
and the attractive personality of the deceased, bear witness to his loyal devotion, 
his conscientious industry, and the high and honorable purposes which inspired his 
labors. 

Be it therefore resolved, That in the death of Col. James A. Sexton the Commis- 
sion has lost a faithful, efficient, and well-beloved coadjutor, the country a useful 
citizen, and the Union one of its most valorous defenders. 

The Commission, at 1 p. m., adjourned to meet at 10 a. m. Tuesday, 
the 7th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington., D. C, Fehrnary 7, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present, all members. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

Letter received from Major-General Miles. Ordered filed. 

Letter from Otto L. Ludwig, Comjiany C, Fourteenth Minnesota 
Volunteers. Answered by No. 1. 

Letter received from Colonel Denby. Ordered spread upon the 
records of the Commission, as follows : 

Washington, D. C, February 6, 1899. 
Maj. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, 

President of the Commission apimirited by the I'resident to investigate the conduct of 
the War Department in the war ivith Spain. 
Dp:ar General : I beg to return to each and every one of our colleagues, through 
yon, and to yourself, my profound thanks for the resolutions adopted by the Com- 
mission in my honor, which have been sent to the President, and of which a duplicate, 
signed by every member, has been delivered to me by you. 

The signers came from the North and the South, the East and the West. Their 
lives are a part of the history of our country. Such a testimonial, signed by them, 
would, under any circumstances, be a great honor to the recii^ient, but its transcend- 
ent value to me is due to the fact that it comes from esteemed, honored, and beloved 
/riends. 
Such we are, I think, and such we will be until life ends. 



MINUTES OF TTIE COMMISSION. 103 

I shall preserve tliis testimonial always with {jiatitude, aud I shall transmit it aa 

a precious heirloom to my children. 

Your obedient servant, 

Charles Dknby. 

A letter was received from John K. Mohn. Ordered filed. 

Letters were received from Prof. W. H. Wiley, chemist, one dated 
February 4 and one dated February 6, regarding examiuations of sam- 
ples of meat. Ordered to be printed as appendices to the report. 

The Commission, at 12,45 p. m., took a recess until 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The Commission reassembled at 2 p. m. 

Prof. F. W. Clarke, Geological Survey, was recalled. (See transcript 
of his testimony.) 

Prof. W. D. Bigelow appeared at the request of the Commission and, 
having no objection, he was duly sworn and his testimony taken. (See 
transcript of same.) 

The following resolutions were passed: 

Resolved, The thanks of this Commission are due, and are hereby tendered, to Maj. 
Gen. Grenville M. Dodge for the able aiid considerate manner in which he has pre- 
sided over our deliberations and conducted our labors. 

Ilesolved, We hereby express our appreciation of the intelligent and highly satis- 
factory services of Lieut. Col. F. B. Jones, chief quartermaster United States Vol- 
unteers; of Maj. S. C. Mills, recorder; aud of Mr. Eichard Weightman, secretary, 
during their connection with this Commission. 

Resolved, We commend the employees of this Commission for their faitliful and 
constant labors. 

The Commission, at 4.20 p, m., adjourued to meet at 10 a. m. Wed- 
nesday, the 8th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



ONE HUNDEED AND EIGHTH DAY. 

War Department, 
Washington, B. C, Fehruary 8, 1899. 
The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 
Present, all members. 

The secretary and recorder were also present. 

A letter was received from Mary Hatch Willard, New York, request- 
ing cojjy of her testimony. 

A letter was received from Capt. Charles F. Kieffer, assistant sur- 
geon. United States Army, in re canned beef. Ordered marked special 
file. 

The Commission went into executive session, and adjourned at G.30 
p. m. to meet at 10 a. m. Thursday, the 9th instant. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



104 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

ONE HUNDRED AND NINTH DAY. 

War Department. 
Washingt07i, B. C, February 9, 1899. 

The Commission met pursuant to adjournment at 10 a. m. 

Present, General Dodge, Colonel Denby, General McCook, General 
Wilson, General Beaver, Governor Woodbury, Dr. Conner, and Cap- 
tain Howell. 

Secretary Weiglitman and Recorder Mills were also present. 

The Commission went into executive session until 11.30 a. m., when 
it adjourned to meet at 3.30 p. m. 

The Commission reassembled at 3.30 o'clock p. m. The copies of the 
report being received, they were signed by each Commissioner. The 
Commission, accompanied by the secretary and recorder, then pro- 
ceeded to the Executive Mansion, where a copy of the report and its 
appendices was handed to the President of the United States. 

The President thanked the members of the Commission for their 
valuable and patriotic work, and expressed his high appreciation of 
their labors. 

The Commission withdrew, and at 5.15 o'clock p. m., there being no 
further business before it, adjourned sine die. 

S. C. Mills, Recorder. 



REPORT TO WILLIAM McKINLEY, PRESIDENT OF 
THE UNITED STATES. 



105 



OFFICE OP COMMISSION APPOINTED BY THE PRESIDENT TO 
INVESTIGATE THE CONDUCT OF THE WAR DEPARTMENT IN 
THE WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Washington, D. C, February 9, 1899. 
To the President : 

Sir : The imdersigned, members of the commission appointed by you 
to investigate the conduct of the War Department in the War with 
Spain, have the honor to submit the following report: 

On the 8th day of September, 1898, Gen. R. A. Alger, Secretary of 
War, submitted to you a letter (a copy whereof is annexed hereto, 
marked "A"), wherein he requested you to appoint a board, consisting 
of from five to seven members, with full power to investigate every 
bureau of the War Department and everything connected with the 
Army during the recent War with Spain. 

In pursuance of this request you appointed the undersigned a com- 
mission for the purpose indicated. 

At your request the members of the commission assembled at the 
Executive Mansion September 24 last. You then read to them a paper 
embodying your instructions (a copy whereof is hereto attached, 
marked "B"). In this paper you instruct the commission to thor- 
oughly investigate all charges of criminal neglect of the soldiers in 
camp, field, hospital, and on transports; and to make the fullest exami- 
nation of the administration of the War Department in all of its branches 
with the view of establishing the truth or falsity of the accusations of 
neglect and incompetency which had been made in the public press 
and elsewhere. Under your instructions there was no limit to the 
scope of our investigation, and you assured us that every facility would 
be afforded for the closest scrutiny and examination of all departments 
connected with the Army. You impressed upon us in the strongest 
manner your wish that our investigation should be so thorough and 
complete that our report should, when made, fix the responsibility for 
any failure or fault by reason of neglect, incompetency, or maladminis- 
tration upon the officers and bureaus responsible therefor, if it should 
be found that the evils complained of had existed. 

Appreciating to the fullest extent the candor and earnestness of your 
instructions, and resolved to abide by them in their meaning and spirit, 
we entered upon the discharge of our important duties. Immediately 
on leaving your presence the commission organized by electing Gen. 
Grenville M. Dodge, of Iowa, president; Col. Charles Denby, of Indi- 
ana, vice-president; and Mr. Eichard C. Weightman, of Washington 
City, secretary. Gen. James A. Beaver, of Pennsylvania, was desig- 
nated to conduct the examination of witnesses. Lieut. Ool. F. B. Jones, 

107 



108 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OP WAR WITH SPAIN. 

cMef quartermaster of volunteers, was detailed by tlie War Depart- 
ment as disbursing officer, and Maj. Stephen 0. Mills, F. S. A., was 
appointed by you recorder of the commission. 

The organization of the commission took place at the War Depart- 
ment September 24, but on the next day and thereafter we met at the 
Lemon Building, in Washington City. 

At the second meeting of the commission the necessary arrangements 
were made for tlie securing of clerks and stenographers, and a general 
discussion liad as to the line of investigation to be pursued. 

It was determined that the fullest possible publicity should be given 
to the proceedings of the commission. 

Only two rooms were assigned us for public use. One was used and 
occupied by the members of the commission for the taking of testimony 
and other l)usiness; the other by the employees of the commission. 
There was, therefore, but little space available for the accommodation 
of reporters desiring to report proceedings; but there were allowed to 
be present at the sessions of the commission during the examination of 
witnesses six rex)resentatives, three of whom represented the three press 
associations of the United States, to whom all needed conveniences were 
assigned. A copy of the orders relating to reports by representatives 
of the press is annexed hereto, marked "C." 

In further preparation for the labors of the commission it was 
resolved a^he. first meeting for business, held September 25, that the 
Secretary of War, the Adjutant-General, the Quartermaster-General, 
the Commissary-General, and the Surgeon-General should be requested 
to transmit to the commission all complaints received by them since 
April 1, 1898, touching the conduct of the war. 

This request was promptly comx)lied with by the officials above 
mentioned, and a large number of letters and communications touch- 
ing the subject matter thereof were transmitted to the commission for 
its consideration. For the resolution see the paper hereto annexed, 
marked "D." 

In order that all persons should have the most ample opportunity to 
present to the commission any complaints they might see fit to make 
touching the conduct of the War Department, the commission, by a 
resolution adopted September 27, which was immediately given to the 
press, resolved that it invited and was ready and willing to receive and 
consider any complaints about the conduct of the War Department from 
any person or persons, and that it was respectfully requested that such 
complaints should be made in writing, stating facts that the jjarty 
might know of his own knowledge precisely and in detail, giving names 
of any officers or enlisted men who were charged with misconduct or 
incompetency, and that such communications should be addressed to 
the secretary of the commission at Washington, D. C. 
A copy of this resolution is hereto annexed marked ''E." 
In compliance with this resolution we received many hundreds of 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 109 

letters and newspaper clippings, all of wbiuli were duly considered by 
the commission. 

In order to further facilitate our labors and to furnish every possible 
opportunity for presenting complaints it was ordered that whenever 
any person made a complaint which was not specific, he should be 
requested to forward a written statement, giving in as definite and 
complete a form as practicable all facts based upon personal experience 
and knowledge that would aid the pending investigation. (See paper 
hereto annexed, marked "F.") 

September 26, 1S98, a communication was addressed to the Secretary 
of War, wherein he was requested to direct the Adjutant-General, the 
Quartermaster-General, the Commissary-General, the Surgeon-General, 
the Chief of Engineers, and the Chief of Ordnance to furnish to the 
commission, as soon as practicable, Information as to the condition of 
their several departments at the time of the declaration of war with 
Spain, and the operations of the same from that time until the war 
closed; a copy of which communication to the Secretary of War is 
annexed hereto, marked "G." 

This communication recited in detail the subjects on which informa- 
tion was desired, comprising facts touching the mobilization of troops, 
and their organization; the amount and kind of camp and garrison 
equipage on hand at the beginning of the war, the amount subsequently 
purchased; similar information with regard to furnishing the troops 
with arms and accouterments; information as to which of the volunteer 
regiments were armed and equipped in the vaiious State camps; how 
the location of the camps of general rendezvous was determined; full 
particulars as to the transportation of troops; an account of the quan- 
tity, quality, and kind of food furnished ; information as to the tentage, 
beds, linen, medicines, and all other necessaries for the hospitals; as 
to whether the medical staff' was efficient; and as to the conditions and 
operations of the engineer and ordnance departments. 

To aid the Secretary of War in complying with this request there was 
submitted a list of special questions addressed to the heads of depart- 
ments, which list is attached to said communication. 

The Secretary of War and the heads of the departments, to wit, the 
Adjutant-General, the Quartermaster-General, the Commissary-Gen- 
eral, the Surgeon-General, the Chief of Engineers, and the Chief of 
Ordnance, in complian(;e with our re(j[uest, furnished answers to the 
questions propounded to tlieni, copies of which, in the order above 
named, are hereunto annexed, marked, respectively, "H," "I," " K," 
"L," "M," "N,"and " O." 

These replies have materially aided us in our investigation. Hav 
ing thus arranged the preliminary matters which seemed advisable to 
be determined, the commission resolved that all charges specifically 
brought before it should be made the basis of the examination of wit 
nesses who had, or professed to have, knowledge of the facts involved 
in such charges. 



110 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAE WITH SPAIN, 

It was fuitlier determined that in the examination of witnesses the 
strict rules of evidence as applied in legal proceedings should not be 
adhered to, but considerable latitude should be allowed. 

While, therefore, in general, the rules of evidence have been followed, 
we have not hesitated to relax their aj)plication when thought advis- 
able. During our sessions we examined 495 witnesses. All of these 
were sworn or afitirmed, except one who declined to take the oath. 
The chief examination was conducted by the member designated for 
that purpose, but each witness was interrogated by every member of 
the commission who desired to do so. 

Our purj)ose in the discharge of our duties was to arrive at the facts 
touching the conduct of the war, and no effort w^as spared by us to 
reach that result. We have examined the Secretary of War; the Com 
manding General; heads of departments; officers of corps, divisions, 
brigades, regiments, and companies; noncommissioned officers and 
X)rivates; nurses, and j)ersons from many employments in private life. 
No man or woman who has stated to us that he or she had any material 
matter touching the subject of our inquiry to communicate has been 
refused a hearing. 

All the members of the commission have been engaged in taking 
testimony. It has happened that subcommittees have been occupied 
in hearing witnesses at four different places at the same time. 

Testimony has been taken in Washington, D. C; Jacksonville, Fla, ; 
FortMcPherson, Ga. ; Anuiston, Ala. ; Huntsville, Ala. ; Chattanooga, 
Tenn.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Lexington, Ky. ; Chicago, 111.; Cincinnati, 
Ohio; Detroit, Mich.; Harrisburg, Pa.; New York City; Boston; Bur 
lington, Vt. ; Tampa, Fla., and Fernandina, Fla. The commission visited 
in person most of the old camps; Jacksonville, which was occupied by 
the Seventh Corps; the sites of the camps at Tampa, Fernandina, and 
Camp Thomas; the new camps at Anniston, where the First Division of 
the Fourth Corps was located; Huntsville, where the Second and Third 
divisions and cavalry division of the Fourth Corps were located ; Knox- 
ville, where the Second Division of the First Corps was located; Lex- 
ington, where the headquarters and First Division of First Corps were 
encamped; and Camp Meade, where the Second Corps was encamped. 
As a rule the inspection was not only of camps but of troops and 
supplies, and much valuable information was obtained by contact with 
officers and enlisted men. 

At all of these places we have invited, sometimes with special insist- 
ence, every person to come before us and testify who could throw auy 
light on the conduct of the War Department in any of its branches. 

Any charge of corruption or intimation of fraud or bribery in con- 
nection with the letting of any contract, even a hint of wrongdoing, 
has been carefully investigated. 

It may be said now, at the beginning of this report, that there has 
been no evidence before us that anyone in or connected with the War 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. Ill 

Department has dislionestly received a dollar. We have made persist- 
ent efforts to secure the attendance of persons to whose names rumor 
had attached an allegation that they knew of corruption of officials in 
the War ])epartment, but these men have either denied the statements 
attributed to them or have maintained silence when invited to tell 
what they knew. 

Preliminary to a specific report on the conduct and management of 
the bureaus of the War Department, as well as on camps and sanita- 
tion, and the conditions attending the operations of armies in the field, 
attention is called to certain topics had under consideration. We have 
regarded it as a part of our duty to make suggestions touching changes 
that might be desirable in the future control and management of the 
Army. 

RETIRED OFFICERS. 

Under existing laws the officers of the Army are retired when they 
reach the age of 64. We have had before us many suggestions made 
by officers on the retired list, who are men of experience and dis- 
tinction, that this law should be so amended as to give to the Presi- 
dent the right to call into active service any retired officer during the 
time of war. This right exists as to the retired officers of the Navy, 
and it seems to us there is no reason why it should not be extended 
to embrace retired Army officers. 

It does not appear reasonable that an arbitrary law should prevent 
during the existence of war the use of experienced men merely on 
account of their age. We think it would be wise to make it discre- 
tionary with the President to use the officers on the retired list for 
filling positions during war and not trench on the active organization, 
that may be needed in the field. 

During the recent war many positions were filled by the appointment 
of civilians to which retired officers could have brought professional 
training, valuable knowledge, and large experience. 

These remarks must not be construed as reflections on the appoint- 
ments made from civil life. The young civilians who received staff and 
other appointments in the main discharged their duties in a highly 
commendable manner. Although inexperienced, they learned quickly. 
Among the officers of the staff departments appointed from civil life 
were many who had had experience in work identical with or similar 
to that they were called upon to perform while in service. 

REGIMENTAL OFFICERS. 

Volunteer regiments commanded by regular officers or by officers of 
experience were better cared for than those regiments which were com- 
manded by inexperienced men. The colonel of a regiment is responsi- 
ble for the care of the men in every respect as to their health, drill, and 
discipline, and incessant care is necessary on his part to force upon 



112 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

the men the practice of hygiene in all matters relating to camp life, such 
as cleanliness, bathing, care of kitchen and sink, and general policing. 
The less sickness among regular troops as compared with volunteers 
must be ascribed, in part at least, to the fact that they are commanded 
and cared for by skilled and experienced officers. 

EXAMINATION OF APPOINTEES IN THE ARMY. 

In order to secure competent officers iu all the branches of the Army, 
it is desirable that before receiving his commission every applicant 
should be examined by a board designated for the purpose by the 
President. The fact that regimental officers are nominated by the 
governors of the States constitutes no valid objection to their being 
compelled to undergo such examination. If it were known that 
appointees would be examined as to their qualification, greater care 
might be exercised by the governors in their selections. All such 
appointees are to be mustered into the service of the United States, 
and before the muster takes i^lace the Government should be satisfied 
that they are capable of properly discharging the duties incumbent 
upon them after muster into service. It is the practice of the Govern- 
ment now to require every officer up to a certain grade to be examined 
for promotion. During the war it was tlie practice of the Govern- 
ment to require nominees for appointment in the Regular Army to be 
examined. The system should be adhered to in increasing the Army in 
time of peace and in all future wars. Tlie short duration of the war 
with Spain, perhaps, did not render it j)racticable to convene boards 
of examination, but there is no reason why such should not be con- 
vened hereafter. 

SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTION. 

We have been greatly impressed by the proof taken before us as 
to the advantages derived from schools of instruction, which were 
established in many brigades and regiments. Regular Army quarter- 
masters and commissaries held such schools at some places where 
large numbers of troops were collected; their services were greatly 
appreciated by (jiviliau appointees, and good results followed. Tliere 
were also in many regiments schools held for instructing the commis- 
sioned and noncommissioned officers iu tactics and other soldierly 
duties. Binding regulations on this subject should be enacted, and 
the system extended to all branches of the service, particularly iu 
any special duties pertaining tliereto. It would be perhaps especially 
beneficial to surgeons appointed from civil life, who, informed in the 
line of tlieir i)rofession, are usually unacquainted with the purely mili- 
tary duties iu which they should be specially instructed. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 113 

PAPER WORK OP THE WAR DEPARTMENT. 

The routine work in the departments, in our opinion, is far beyond 
what is necessary, and eacli year seems to increase it. The methods 
employed make it almost impossible to transact business promptly. 
The heads of all departments, otticers of large depots, chiefs of statt 
departments, corps, and divisions have necessarily been obliged to give 
the time and attention to details which should have been given to 
matters of larger moment. Xo well-regulated concern or corporation 
could transact business satisfactorily under such regulations as govern 
the staff departments, and the fact that every officer of each of the staff 
departments holding responsible positions has been obliged to ignore 
routine demonstrates the necessity of a thorough reform. 

THE ARMY. 

On the 1st day of April, 1898, the strength of the Army was 2,143 
officers and 20,040 enlisted men, a total of 28,183. War with the 
Kingdom of Spain was declared April 21, 1898. Just before the war 
began portions of the Regular Army were stationed in AVashington, 
Idaho, California, Utah, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, the Dakotas, 
Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and at various posts, 
amounting in all to 80 in number. On April 15, 1898, by direction of the 
Secretary of War, the regiments of the Regular Army, with few excep- 
tions, were ordered to proceed to various points in the South — Chicka- 
raauga, Ga., New Orleans, La., Mobile, Ala., and Tampa, Fla. By 
proclamation of April 23 the President called for 12.~>,000 volunteers, 
and on May 25 for an additional force of 75,000. Congress also author- 
ized an increase of the Regular Army to 01,000 and in addition pro- 
vided for 10 regiments of volunteer infantry (immunes), cavalry, and 
engineers. 

On May 31, 125,000 volunteers had been mustered into the service. 

In August, 1898, the Regular Army numbered 50,305, the Volunteer 
Army 207,244— a total of 203,009. 

These figures of themselves indicate that an immense work was 
thrown upon the War Department. After thirty-three years of peace, 
during a great part of which the Army did not exceed 20,000 men, 
it suddenly became necessary to arm, clothe, feed, and equip more than 
a quarter of a million. 

How that duty was discharged will appear in detail in subsequent 
parts of this report. The sudden emergency which called our people 
to arms after an interval of half a century of peace with all foreign 
powers was met by the War Department with earnestness and 
energy. The situation found the country unprepared with any large 
stock of arms, ammunition, clothing, supplies, and equipments. That 
they were duly provided and that the numerous demands on the indus- 
tries of our people were met so promptly will remain one of the marvels 
of history. 

7833— VOL. 1 8 



114 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

It is to be noted that the orgauizatiou of the Army indicated a desire 
on the part of the War Department to place in separate and responsible 
commands experienced oflicers of the Eegular Army and officers from 
civil life who had received a military education and had experience in 
the civil war. The chiefs of the staff departments in the field were 
selected from a vsimilar class of officers. They took charge of the depots 
of supplies at the camps and were assigned the most responsible posi- 
tions. So many oflicers of the Regular Army commanded, supplied, 
and superintended the movement of troops that the service was 
markedly reduced in its field, line, and staff. 

The rapidity with which commanding officers of corps, divisions, bri- 
gades, regiments, and officers of the staff* departments have profited by 
the first six mouths' service is shown in the improvements m the new 
camps, their location, water supply, and sanitary arrangements. The 
weak spots in the first arrangements for camping troops were soon dis- 
covered, and it was learned that with proper system and little expense 
they could be camped under favorable sanitary conditions. The pres- 
ent camj)s are models, the hospitals adapted to the comfort and care of 
the sick, the grounds clean, and the sanitary conditions greatly improved. 
The troops are now moved with promptness, without friction, and with 
more rapidity than in the beg^inning of the war. These improvements 
have come from experience, and the new army now is far advanced in 
facilities for feeding, equipijing, camping, and transportation. 

CASUALTIES. 

The reports before us show that during the war 23 officers and 257 
enlisted men were killed; 113 officers and 1,404 enlisted men wounded. 
Between May 1 and September 30, inclusive, the deaths from all 
causes were 107 officers and 2,803 enlisted men, being an aggregate of 
2,910 out of a total force of 274,717, but a little over one per cent. 

PREPARATIONS FOR FUTURE WARS. 

One of the lessons taught by the war is that the country should 
hereafter be in a better state of preparation for war. Testimony has 
been taken on this subject, and suggestions have been made that large 
supplies of all the material not liable to deterioration should be kept 
on hand, to be continuously issued and renewed, so that in any emer- 
gency they might be available. Especially should this be the case with 
such supplies, e(iuipment, aiud ordnance stores as are not in general 
use in the United States and which can not be rapidly obtained in 
open market. 

THE AID SOCIETIES. 

It is gratifying to report that most valuable assistance to our soldiers 
during the war was rendered by various voluntary relief associations the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 1 15 

more conspicuous of wbicb were the American National Eed Cross, 
tlie National Itelief Commission, the Dan.nliters of the American Kevo- 
lution, the Army and Navy League, and the Young Men's Christian 
Association. Representatives of these and other societies worked 
in cooperation with many good men and women in all the States and 
were present in the camp, the hospital, and on the held of battle. 
To these societies and those who cooperated with them the country 
owes a debt of gratitude. 

There were many individual instances of personal devotion to the 
interest of the soldiers. We do not name these beneficent laborers here, 
but they will not be forgetten. 

AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBrLITY. 

For many years the divided authority and responsibility in the War 
Department has produced friction, for which, in the interest of the 
service, a remedy, if possible, should be applied. The Constitution 
makes the President the Commander in Chief of the Army, and he 
can not transfer that authority to any other person. The President 
selects his Secretary of War, who has his confidence, and who is his 
confidential adviser. The commanding general is assigned to duty as 
such by the President, and under the Military Laws of the United 
States his duties are defined as follows: 

The commaud exercised by the commanding general of the Army, not having been 
made the subject of statutory regulatiou, is determined by the order of assignment. 
It has been habitually composed of the aggregate of the several terrirtorial commands 
that have been or may be created by the President. 

The military establishment is under orders of the commanding general of the 
Army in that which pertains to its discipline and military control. Tiie iiscal affairs 
of the Army are conducted by the Secretary of War through the several staft' depart- 
ments. (Par. 187, A. R., 1895.) 

All orders and instructions from the President or Secretary of War relating to 
military operations or affecting the military control and discipline of the Army will 
l)e promulgated through the commanding general. (Par. 188, A. R., 1895.) 

Lieutenant-General Schofield, who has probably had as much 
experience and given the question as much thought and study as any 
one in our country, says in substance: 

Recent experience has served to confirm all the results of my lifelong study and 
large experience that the jiroper position for the senior ofiiccr of the Army on dutj' 
at Washington is not that of commanding general, a position which is practically 
impossible, but that of general in chief, which means in fact chief of stall' to the 
President. The title of general in chief was a permanent on(! during the entire 
history of the country up to the time when General Grant became Lieutenant- 
General. 

When I became tlie commanding general I addressed to the President a letter, in 
wliicli I pointed out to him what had been the result of my study and experience, 
and saying that the only way was to abandon entirely, which I did during my seven 
years of service, all pretense of being the commanding general and to content myself 
with acting as the chief of staff of the Army under the Secretary of War and the 
President. The result was that perfect harmony prevailed during my time, and I 



116 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

did exercise a legitimate influence in command of the Army, this because I did not 
claim to exercise anything which the law did not give me. 

The Presicleut must have, the same power af selection of his general 
in chief as he has of his Secretary of War; without this there can be 
no guaranty that he will give, or that the Secretary of War will place 
in the general in chief, that confidence which is necessary to perfect 
harmony. JS either the President nor the Secretary of War should 
have in the command of the Army an officer who is not working in har- 
Inony with him. 

THE SECRETARY OF WAR. 

The records of the War Department, which have been laid before us, 
show that the Secretary of War extended to all chiefs of bureaus cor- 
dial and full suj)port, and promptly responded to every proper demand 
made upon him by commanding officers. 

"No testimony has been presented showing intentional neglect of duty 
nor any attempt to serve personal interests. The charges made that 
the Secretary of War was pecuniarily interested in contracts, purchases, 
and other transactions of the War Department have been thoroughly 
examined and found baseless. 

In the judgment of the commission there was lacking in the general 
administration of the War Department during the continuance of the 
war with Spain that complete grasp of the situation which was essen- 
tial to the highest efficiency and discipline of the Army. 

The commission has refrained from criticizing certain of the heads of 
bureaus for not having acted with foresight in preparing their various 
departments for active war before war was actually declared, because 
it has appeared that the national defense fund i^rovided by the act of 
March 9, 1898, was not made available for use, except for the Navy 
and for coast defenses and the expenditures incident thereto, until 
after the declaration of war. 

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. 

BRIG. CIEN. H. C. CORBIN, ADJUTANT-GENERAL, U. S. A., IN CHARGE. 

The working force of this department is composed of G officers, 105 
permanent clerks, and 195 temporary clerks. 

The Adjutant General's Department is the bureau of orders and rec- 
ords of the Army. Orders and instructions emanating from the War 
Department or Army Headquarters and all general regulations are 
communicated to troops and individuals in the military service through 
the Adjutant-General, In his office are the records of the War Depart- 
ment relating to the personnel of the permanent military establishment 
and militia in the service of the United States, to the military history 
of every commissioned officer and soldier thereof, and to all movements 
and operations of troops. 

The department is divided into divisions as follows: 



Rfit>ORT OF THE COMMISSION. 1 1 7 

The Military Academy division lias charge of the (lualifications and 
manner of appoiutmeut of cadets. The graduation of the classes of 
1898 and 1899 in advance of the usual time created the impression that 
there must necessarily be a corresponding increase in the number of 
cadet appointments, which occasioned a large increase of applications 
and correspondence in this division. 

Unlisted branch of the Rcfiular Army. — The work of this division com- 
prises the appointment of noncommissioned staff officers, transfers, 
furloughs, discharges, etc. This work up to September 1 was largely 
increased because of the added charge of the enlisted men of the Vol- 
unteer Army. Since that date the division has had to do witli men of the 
Eegular Armj^ only. The discharges by favor in years before the war 
were less than 100 per month; since September 1 there have been over 
GOO per month. The enlisted branch of the Volunteer Army since 
Sex)tember 1 has had charge of the enlisted men of the volunteers, and 
there have passed through the office about 1,500 papers per day. 
This division also has charge of special orders. It receives the com- 
munications from soldiers serving with their regiments, soldiers away 
from their regiments, relatives and friends of soldiers, Members of 
Congress and other influential people asking for discharges and fur- 
loughs of volunteers. This correspondence has greatly increased from 
the fact that regulations and military discipline have often been 
ignored. 

Division of orders^ boolcs, and blanls. — From May 1 to August 1, 1898, 
the number of special orders issued was 79; the number of special 
orders distributed was 31,752; number of paragraphs of special orders 
issued, 5,660; number of paragraphs of special orders distributed, 
23,800; general orders issued, 102; general orders distributed, 736.000; 
circulars issued, 36; circulars distributed, 256,000. During this time 
4,000,000 blanks were distributed to the Army from Porto Rico to 
Manila, and 15,700 packages of blank and record books. 

Army 7'oUs division. — This division has control of the enlistment 
papers, descriptive and assignment cards, and death and disability 
papers pertaining to the enlisted men of the Regular Army. On the 
muster in of the volunteer organizations all similar records pertaining 
to them were committed to the care of this division, before the war 
the average number of muster rolls received bimonthly was 855. Dur- 
ing the war this has been increased to 4,000. 

Appointment, 2)romotion, and commission division. — Ordinarily about 
350 appointments and commissions were issued in a year, while since 
March 1, 1898, in the Regular and Volunteer Army 3,997 commissions 
have been issued. There have been filed over 30,000 applications for 
appointment as general and general staff othcers of volunteers. 

Returns division. — This division has charge of receiving, examining, 
noting, and filing all the various Army returns, keeping record of service 
of all officers of the Army, movement of troops, establishment of posts, 
their abandonment, etc. It also has charge of the records of the various 



118 INVESTIOATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

departments, corps, divisions, brigades, commanders, and staff offi- 
cers of each command, the movements and operations of the entire 
Army, as well as that of a single company, actions in which engaged, 
losses sustained, etc. It is in receipt of thousands of letters and news- 
papers daily going to regiments and individuals of the Army, which 
aave to be readdressed and remailed. Since tlie commencement of the 
muster out of the volunteers a record is kept of the home addresses of 
all volunteer officers. 

Mail and record division. — All mail received in the office of the Adju- 
tant-General is opened and distributed in this division, requiring the 
services of three clerks. During the eight months preceding the war 
with Spain there were received 00,000 pieces of mail, and from May to 
December, 1898, 400,000. 

Muster-in division. — This division prepared the regulations for the 
muster in, the ordinary rolls, and other blanks. There were detailed 
in each State for mustering duty from one to three officers, to whom 
was assigned the further duty of arranging for the sheltering, subsist- 
ing, and clothing of the volunteers. They made physical examinations 
of 288,000 men, accepting 216,500, and have mustered out to date about 
110,000. 

Telegraph division. — Prior to the war with Spain the business of this 
branch of the service was 1,000 telegrams per month. With the 
sinking of the Maine, on February 15, the telegraph business began to 
steadily increase, so that on April 21, when war was declared, the 
working force was 8 operators, which number steadily increased to the 
time of the battle of Santiago, when there were 20 operators, 5 clerks, 
and 7 messengers. 

liecrniting division of the Re()ular and Volunteer Army. — Prior to 
March, 1898, the monthly rate of enlistment was from 700 to 1,000. 
Under the stimulus of the war, during the month of May the enlist- 
ments for the Eegular Army reached 9,569, and for the three months 
May, June,, and July they numbered 25,500, accepted from 102,000 
applicants. In addition, under the President's second call, over 40,000 
volunteers were enlisted individually from 50,000 applicants to recruit 
the regiments mustered in under the first call. During the months 
of August, September, and October, the rate of enlistment for the 
Regular Army was 3,300; sin{;e iNTovember the monthly rate has been 
5,000. 

Military information division.— The work of this division began a long 
time before war was declared. Information was collected as to the 
strength, armament, supplies, and operations of the Spanish troops in 
Cuba and Porto Kico. Lieutenant Whitney visited Porto Rico and 
Lieutenant Rowan Cuba, and the result of this labor and personal 
examination was that when war was declared the War Department 
was in possession of information showing the probable amount of 
resistance to be met with at any given point. Plans of the forts around 
Havana and other fortified points and the trochas were obtained. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 1 nj 

Military maps and military notes of Cuba, Porto llico, and the Philip- 
pines were published, and illustrated pamphlets of the Spauisli navy 
prepared for the purpose of informing the commanding officers of 
seacoast forts of the character of the ships they might have to cope 
with. In conjunction with the Navy Department a confidential code 
of signals between our ships and the forts was drawn up. It also sent 
and received all the confidential telegrams of the War Department. 

There were submitted to the commission by the Adjutant-General 
detailed statements respecting the Regular Army, the volunteers, and 
militia, and correspondence and telegrams in relation to the three dif- 
ferent campaigns. For information on these subjects reference is made 
to reports appended. 

This department, which was organized and trained to take care of a 
small regular army, was required to rapidly provide for organizing and 
mustering in 250,000 soldiers, and within six months to muster out 
100,000. The Adjutant-Generars Department of the Army having full 
knowledge of the condition of the Army when the declaration of war 
was made, it could not be surjirised by the inability of the departments 
to immediately respond to the demands. The economy of previous 
years, by which nearly every article of equipment not immediately 
needed by the Army was disposed of and no provision made for 
emergencies, rendered immediate effective expansion of the Army 
impossible. In the organization of the Army for active duty provision 
was made for eight corps, seven of which were fully equipped and 
placed in the field. 

The suggestion has been made, and opinion given, that it would have 
been better to have organized the Army and equipped the troops in each 
of their States before they were concentrated and mobilized into bri- 
gades, divisions, and corps, but the War Department had not the oiii- 
cers to send to each State to organize, muster, feed, and equip them, 
nor had it officers of sufficient rank to command, drill, and discipline 
the troops -while in State camps. Early removal of regiments from 
State camps has the advantage of avoiding the disturbing influences 
of home locality. 

During the organization and eijuipment of the Army a daily report by 
telegraph from each camp was received, showing what supplies they had 
and what was needed, and a copy of this report was furnished each 
staff department. Where important deficiencies were reported, the Sec- 
retary of War called attention to the fact, and in most cases it was 
found that such deficiencies w^ere due to the nonexistence of the arti- 
cles. 

There were about 250 regiments, batteries, and separate organizations 
in the Army, from only 25 of which came complaints, aside from those 
affecting the jNIedical Department. Investigation has shown that the 
most of these complaints were because of lack of supplies not obtainable 
at first or were due to the inexperience of officers in command, not, so far 



120 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

as we can discover, from any mtentional neglect. Prompt action seems 
to have been taken in most cases to remedy tliein, bnt tliey were what 
occur naturally from new exi^eriences, new conditions, unexpected and 
emergency movements, and in fact from the entirely new life, discipline, 
and training. 

In the staff" departments about 400 regular officers, on the strength 
of their efficiency records, were taken to fill the more responsible posi- 
tions. Then it was found necessary to go outside and appoint from 
civil life, the selecti(ms being frequently made from officers who had 
had experience in the National (xuard, graduates from military colleges 
and schools, and citizens whose business or professions fitted them for 
the positions for which they were selected. The testimony shows that 
they were honest and manifested a desire to become efficient in their 
duties. Kot one has been court-martialed and but few dropped as 
incompetent. 

In the Inspector-General's Department every appointee except one 
had had experience. In the Medical Department the President did 
not appoint unless the Surgeon-General had examined the application 
and recommended the applicant. 

The Adjutant-General testified that there had not been a deficiency 
of one dollar reported on the part of a volunteer staff" officer, and that 
he wished to make it a matter of record that in the distribution of 
many millions of dollars during this war there was yet to be made the 
first charge of defalcation against an army officer, regular or volunteer. 

The testimony shows that it was the custom of the Secretary of War, 
when any large or emergency movement was contemplated, to call in 
consultation the heads of the diff"erent departments that related to the 
movement. It also shows that the heads of departments consulted the 
Secretary of War freciuently, at times daily, upon matters relating to 
their departments, and were given prompt and ample support in their 
various duties. 

The military colleges of the United States should be encouraged, 
especially those that have a system of education and drill similar to 
West Point, and their graduates should be given preference, after 
West Point, in the appointment to the grade of second lieutenant 
in the Army over other civilians. It is a simple and effective way 
for the CTnited States to induce young men who have a taste for 
military life to fit themselves for it, and creates a reserve force that 
always in times of war seeks service and performs efficient and valuable 
duties. 

From the day war was declared until this hour the office of the Adju- 
tant-General has not been closed. The heads of the departments were 
frequently called in the night for consultation and to furnish supjilies 
in emergencies. The Adjutant- General was in his office almost the 
entire time, often spending the niglit there, and the greater i)art of the 
force worked Sundays and holidays and at all hours when the emergency 
required it. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 121 

There have been very few complaints against this department. The 
records and testimony show tliat it has been prompt in its work, and 
has added greatly to the efficiency of the Army. Lack of proper leg 
islation and strict construction of laws and regulations made officers 
hesitate in assuming responsibilities and meeting emergencies by going 
outside the regulations and laws. However, most officers, seeing the 
necessity and appreciating the emergency, obtained by purchase and 
in other ways all needed supplies, being sustained in their action by 
the Secretary of War and chiefs of bureaus. This, Uowever, will not 
relieve them of their personal liabilities, which can be removed only by 
act of Congress. Under the law no contract or actual expenditure 
preparatory for war could be made until appropriations were available. 
The difierent staff departments were called upon to obtain information 
and to make such preparation as was possible under the law and ex- 
isting conditions. 

INSPECTOR-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. 

BRIG. GEN. J. C. BRECKINRIDGE, INSPECTOR-GENERAL, U. S. A., IN 

CHARGE. 

DUTIES. 

The Inspector-General's Department has no power to order inspec- 
tions except as directed so to do by the Secretary of War or the Major- 
General Commanding the Army, and has no control over inspectors- 
general assigned to department, cor])s or division headquarters. 

Its duties are prescribed partly by the statute law and parHy by 
Army Eegulations and General Orders. Those prescribed by statute 
are: 

First. Inspections or surveys of unserviceable stores, act of March 
3, 1825. 

Second. Frequent inspections of disbursements of appropriations 
made by officers of the Army, act April 1^0, 1874. 

Third. Annual inspection of the Soldiers' Home at Washington, D. C, 
act March 3, 1883. 

Fourth. Annual inspection of the National Homes for Disabled 
Volunteer Soldiers, act August 18, 1894. 

Army Ilegulatious and General Orders prescribe that the sphere of 
inquiry of an inspector includes every branch of military aliairs, except 
when limited in orders or by the Army Kegulations. 

General Order 81 of 18!)8 i)rescribes that inspectors will be assigned 
by the War Department to the headquarters of geographical depart- 
ments, and to the headcjuarters of armies and army corps in the field, 
and by the commanding generals thereof to divisions. 

Inspectors thus assigned are under the orders of their commanding 
officers, and make such inspections as are directed. An inspector, of 
himself, has not the authority to inspect when and where he pleases. 



122 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

It is directed iu general order 81 of 1898 that he make known his orders 
or instructions to commanding or other officers whose troops and affairs 
he is directed to inspect, and an attempt to inspect without such 
orders would meet with a prompt and proper refusal to be inspected. 
Ordinarily an inspector is given wide latitude by his immediate com- 
manding officer and becomes a confidential staff' officer. Frequently he 
is empowered to give orders in the name of the commanding officer to 
correct irregularities, or meet the deficiencies exposed by inspections, 
but this is in the discretion of the commanding officer and applies 
usually to troops only. The heads of the other staff" departments, being 
staff' officers of the commanding officer, their departments are inspected 
only by order. 

REPORTS. 

Inspectors-general report in person to the Commanding General and 
by letter to the Adjutant-General of the Army. They report monthly 
to the Adjutant-General of the Army the inspections and investiga- 
tions made by them during the month. Their reports are made to 
their immediate commanding officer, who forwards them to the Adjutant- 
General of the Army for transmittal to the Inspector-General of the 
Army. They will not give orders unless specially authorized to do so, 
and then only in the name of the superior giving such authority. 

In active service, many of the reports of inspecting officers are made 
verbally. With new troops especially, commanding officers do not 
desire to have written reports of all inspections made. It is recognized 
that many errors, irregularities, and deficiencies are the results of inex- 
perience, and it is not thought desirable to make a record of all these 
matters which may soon be corrected, but which, put on record, would 
be a source of mortification to the trooi)S afterwards. 

This feature, together with the immense amount of work to be done 
and the want of clerical assistance and appliances in the field, explains 
the lack of complete reports on file in the office of the Iusi)ector- 
General in Washington. 

PERSONNEL. 

REGULAR ESTABLISHMENT. 

At the beginning of the war the Department had a force of one 
brigadier-general, two colonels, two lieutenant-colonels, and two 
majors. The act of Congress approved July 7, 1898, made a tem- 
porary increase of one colonel, one lieutenant-colonel, and one major 
during the war. 

The largest number of officers in the regular Department during the 
war was ten, which number was reached in August, when those newly 
appointed reported for duty. Of these, four were appointed general 
officers of the volunteers by the President of the United States and 
assigned to duty on their volunteer rank. 

The other six were on duty with troops or in the office of the 
Insi)ector-General in Washington. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



123 



Five line officers were performing tlic <luties of acting inspectors- 
general at geographical departments, detailed by the War Department 
for such duties on the recommendation of the Inspector-General of the 
Army. As indicative of the class of men so selected, it may be noted 
that the division commanders in the battle of July 1, in front of 
Santiago — Kent, Sumner, Lawton, and Chalfee — had all been acting 
inspectors-general. 

The Inspector-General of the Army, Maj. Gen. J. C. Breckinridge, 
wliile inspecting Camp George H. Thomas, under orders issued from 
headquarters of the Army, under authority from the Secretary of War, 
was ordered by the Major-General Commanding the Army to Tamj^a, 
Fla., and, discontinuing his inspection, he reported to the major- 
general commanding there June 5. 

At General Shafter's request, approved by the Secretary of War, he 
was ordered to embark with the Fifth Corps for Cuba, was present at 
the operations which resulted in the surrender of the city of Santiago 
and the Spanish army, and as Inspector-General of the Army reported 
upon these oijerations. 

The following table shows the stations of insi^ectors-general, regular 
and volunteer, during July, 1898: 





Regular. 






stations. 


Command 
of trooi)s. 


Special. 


Inspec- 
tor's 

duties 
■vrith 

troops. 


Volun- 
teers. 


Total. 


With army at Santiago 


1 




1 


1 
1 
1 


5 

] 
3 
4 
8 
3 
4 


8 
2 


With annv at Manila ' 




4 


At Camp Alger ! -. - - 




4 




1 






9 








3 










4 












Total 


2 


1 


3 


28 


34 



INSPECTORS-GENERAL OF \OLUNTEERS. 

The act of Congress approved April 22, 1808, authorized the Presi- 
dent to appoint one inspector-general with the rank of lieutenant- 
colonel for each army corps and one with the rank of major for each 
division organized. 

Under this authority there were appointed nine inspectors-general 
with the rank of lieutenant-colonel and twenty-three with the rank of 
major. 

Of the nine lieutenant-colonels so appointed, six were from the 
Kegular Army and three from the National Guard. Of the twenty- 
three majors, sixteen were appointed from the Regular Army and 
seven from civil life, the latter, with one exception, having had experi- 
ence with the National Guard. 



124 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The Adjutont-Geueral oftlie Array testifies that the officers appointed 
iuspectois-geiieral from the Regular Army were selected on their 
eniciency records. 

here is before the commission no evidence nor statements that the 
individual officers of the Inspector-Greneral's Department, either Kegu- 
lar or Volunteer, with one exception, were not fitted for and did not 
properly perform their duties. 

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS. 

The commission find that the Inspector-General's Dei^artment was 
not as efficient as it ought to have been. There seems to have been 
^uesiiou as to the authority by which inspections were to be ordered. 
On at least one occasion. May 17, the Secretary of War instructed the 
Major General Commanding the Army to inspect certain camps, viz, 
those at Ohickamauga, Atlanta, New Orleans, Mobile, Tampa, Miami, 
and Key VYest. The Major-Geiieral did not act upon such instructions, 
stating it to be his place to order inspection. 

Further, the commission find that although several of the officers 
oi this department were assigned to duty in comnumd of troops in 
the field, still competent officers were left in charge of the depart- 
ment in Washington to perform such duties as were assigned to them. 
The organization in the field was ample, and the inspectors made 
reports to the commanding officers to whom they had been assigned. 
Those reports were often not acted upon and were not forwarded to 
the War Department. 

For this important branch of the Army a better system could be 
adopted. It is recommended: 

1. That it should be the duty of the Inspector-General to submit to 
the Secretary of War, at stated intervals, plans for the inspection of 
camps and troops. 

2. The corps of inspectors-general should be sutficiently large to 
fully lierform its duties, and inspections should be frequently made. 

3. Reports of such inspection should be promptly forwarded by 
the Inspector-General's Department to the Secretary of War for his 
information. 

JUDGE-ADVOCATE-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. 

BEIG. OEN. G. N. LIEBER, JUDaE-ADVOCATE-GENERAL, U. S. A., IN 

CHARGE. 

The Judge- Advocate-General's Department consists of eight officers, 
and is the bureau of military justice. The Judge Advocate-General is 
the custodian of the records of all general courts-martial, courts of 
inquiry, and military commissions, and of all ])ap( rs relating to the 
title of lands under the control of tlie War !)pi>artineiit except the 
Washington A(jueduct and the public buildmgts and grounds in the 
District of Columbia. The officers of this department render opinions 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 125 

upon legal questions when called upon by proper authority. The only 
addition made to the department during the war was Judgc-ad\ocates 
for corps. The Judge- Advocate-tJeneral considered that su(^h ollicers 
for divisions should also have been appointed, but did not think that the 
failure to so appoint was detrimental to the best interests of the service. 
For the twelve months ending September 1, 1898, the trials by gen- 
eral court-martial were : 

Commissioned officers : 

Regulars 3 

Volunteers 12 

Eulisted men : 

Regulars (couvicted 1,148, acquitted 94) 1, 242 

Volunteers (convicted 497, acquitted 126) 623 

Total 1,880 

The superior class of men that has been recruited for the Kegnlar 
Army is shown by the less number of courts-martial in 1898 as com- 
pared with 1897, which was 139; also in the decrease of desertions, 
which for 1894 were 518, for 1897, 241, and for 1898, 170. The total 
number of convictions for desertion in 1898 was, regulars 170, and 
volunteers 18. 

About one-half of the time of this office was occupied in civil 
matters, such as preparing contracts, examining titles, etc. 

No complaint has been received by the commission in relation to the 
office or any member of its corps, therefore the comnussion concludes 
that it has performed its duties with efficiency and to the benetitof the 
service. 

THE aUARTERMASTER'S DEPARTMENT, UNITED STATES ARMY. 

BRIG. aEN. M, I. LUDINGTON, qUARTEEMASTER-GENERAL, JJ. S. A., IN 

CHARGE. 

The duties devolving uiion the Quartermaster's Department under 
the Secretary of War during peace and war, as required by law and 
regulations, are as follows: 

To provide the Army with military stores and supplies requisite for its 
use, such as clothing and equipage, tents, band instruments, tableware 
and mess furniture, equipments for bakeries, fuel, forage, stationery, 
lumber, straw for bedding for men and animals, all materials for camp 
and for shelter of troops and stores, furniture for barracks, heating and 
cooking stoves for use in barracks and quarters, tools for mechanics 
and laborers in Quartermaster's Department, furniture, books, etc., for 
post schools, reading matter for post libraries, wagons, ambulances, 
carts, saddles, harness, water supply, sewerage, plumbing, illuminating 
supi)lies, and heating for all military posts and buildings. 

The department is also charged with the duty of transporting, by 
land and water, troops, munitions of war, equipments, and all articles 
of military supplies from the i)lace of i)urchase to the several armies, 
garrisons, posts, and recruiting places. 



126 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

It also supplies quartermaster's stores, clothing, and equipage to 
the militia of the States and Territories, furnishing transportation 
therefor as well as for ordnance and ordnance stores issued by the 
General Government to States and Territories. 

It prepares the plans and constructs the barracks, quarters, store- 
houses, hospitals, etc., builds the wharves; constructs the roads, builds 
bridges at military posts, provides, by hire or purchase, grounds for 
military encampments and buildings, contracts for all horses for cavalry, 
artillery, Indian scouts, etc., and pays all incidental expenses of the 
military service which are not provided by other branches. 

On March 1, 1898, Avith the possibility of war with Spain, the Quar- 
termaster's Department found itself charged with the varied, numerous, 
and important duties indicated in the foregoing, its appropriation small, 
and facing the probability of a large army being soon organized for 
field service. 

The department consisted of fifty-seven ofiicers. It was provided 
with all necessary clothing, camp and garrison equipage, for the Keg- 
idar Army of 25,000 men; was prepared to equip and move an army at 
least double that size under peace conditions, but was suddenly called 
upon to furnish within a short period all that was required to fit out an 
army of 275,000 men for probable operations in an enemy's country. 

The department, up to March 1, 1898, found itself confronted with 
the following statutes, the legality of which is unquestioned and which 
apply to all departments of the Army : 

Sec. 3679 (Revised Statutes). No department of the GovernmciTt shall expend in 
any one fiscal year any suui in excess of appropriations made by Congress for that 
fiscal year or involve the Government in any contract for the future payment of 
money in excess of such appropriations. 

Sec. 3732. No contract or purchase on behalf of the United States shall l)e made 
unless the same is authorized by law or is under an appropriation adequate to its 
fulfillment, except in the War and Navy Departments, for clothing, subsistence, 
forage, fuel, quarters, or transportation, which, however, shall not exceed the necessities 
of the current year. 

Skc. 3709. All purchases and contracts for supplies or services in any of the 
departments of the Government, exceiit for personal services, shall be made by 
advertising a sufficient time previously for proposals respecting the same, when the 
public exigencies do not require the immediate delivery of the articles or perfin-m- 
ancc of the service. When immediate delivery or performance is required by public 
exigency, the articles or service required may be procured by open purchase or 
contract at the iilaces and in the manner in which such articles are usually bought 
and sold or such services engaged between individuals. 

It will thus be observed that the declaration of war threw upon the 
Quartermaster's Department an amount of labor and responsibility for 
which it was neither physically nor financially prepared. 

Under the acts of Congress aj)proved April 22 and July 7, 1898, 121 
volunteer offlcers were appointed to the Quartermaster's Deijartment, of 
whom 23 qualified in May, 49 in June, 31 in July, 14 in August, and 4 in 
September. Of this number 22 wereregular officers who received higher 
rank in the volunteer service. One of the officers of the regular estab- 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 127 

lishment was temporarily transferred to duty in the Judge- Advocate- 
General's Department, so that during the period of hostilities the Quar- 
termaster's Department had at its command the services in all of 155 
officers of the regular and volunteer establishments. 

FUNDS AVAILABLE. 

By the act of March 9, 1898, Congress appropriated the sum of 
$50,000,000 for national defense, a portion of which was allotted to the 
Quartermaster's Department. The available funds during the war were 
as follows: 

At the command of the Quartermaster's Department April 1, 1898, 

available for war expenditure $2, 657, 456. 87 

Allotments to the department from the appropriation for national 

defense 1,500,000.00 

Appropriated by the act of March 15, 1898 6, 555, 000. 00 

Appropriated by the deficiency act of May 4, 1898 19,550,000.00 

Appropriated by the deficiency act of July 7, 1898 103, 200, 000. 00 

Appropriated by the act of July 8, 1898 200, 000. 00 

Maliingiuall 133,662,456.87 

It will thus be seen that however handicapped the Quartermaster's 
Department might have been for lack of funds before war was declared, 
Congress freely placed immense sums at its disposal so soon as it was 
believed that a determined struggle seemed inevitable. 

In order that the subject may be more systematically discussed, it is 
deemed best to take up, seriatim, the various branches of this impor- 
tant division, both during peace and war, of the supply departments 
of the Army. 

1. CLOTHING, CAMP AND GARRISON EQUIPAGE. 

The department has reported that on April 1, 1898, it was amply 
provided with all necessary clothing and equipage supplies for three 
months for the Army as then organized and for probably 10,000 addi- 
tional troops; that on April 23 it was confronted with the problem of 
clothing and equipping an army of 125,000 men; that on AjDril 26 the 
Kegular Army was increased to 61,000 men, and on May 25 the second 
call for 75,000 volunteers was issued. Adding to these the 10 regiments 
of ijnmunes, the 3 regiments of cavalry, the 3 regiments of volunteer 
engineers, and the Signal Corps, it appears that within a few weeks it 
became necessary to provide for clothing and equipping an army of 
more than a quarter of a million of men. 

So soon as funds were available, so soon as war was inevitable, so 
soon as law permitted, the (Quartermaster's Department undertook this 
enormous work; probably its chief had foreseen the great emergency 
in advance; possibly someone ehse would have gone into the market 
earlier, anticipating approval of his acts in case war was declared and 
the Army increased tenfold; that the (^)uartermaster-General threw the 
energy of his department into this work when funds were available 



128 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

seems evident, aud tliat liis officers labored faithfully in tlieir efforts to 
aid him is plain to those who have carefully studied their work. 

To clothe and equip 275,000 soldiers was a massive undertaking; 
kerseys and flannels of required quality were not in the market; arti- 
cles were procured conformiug as nearly as practicable to the army 
standard, but difficulties were encountered everywhere; some of the 
material so rapidly obtained failed to retain its color, other portions 
proved to be of defective quality, soon weariug out, and the blame of 
course fell ux)on the Quartermaster's Department, few realizing the 
demands upon it and the struggles and anxieties of its officers. 

The troops concentrating in the South and coming from the North 
and West were supi)lied with clothing required for the climate in which 
they had been serving; that on hand April 1 was not suitable for trop- 
ical climates. To meet the call for such clothing the department pro- 
cured a sujiply of twilted and plain duck for issue to troops in Cuba 
and Porto Rico, but this was, not available until after the surrender of 
Santiago. 

It seems unnecessary to enumerate the many articles furnished by 
this department, but it may be said that on April 1, there were on 
hand at the depots at Philadelphia, Jeftersonville, and San Francisco 
and due under contract, about 09,000 blankets, 28,000 blouses, 53,000 
forage caps, 98,000 canton-flannel drawers, 28,000 campaign hats, 
12,000 cork helmets, 23,000 overcoats, 12,000 ponchos, 47,000 dark blue 
flannel shirts, 62,000 pairs of shoes, 305,000 pairs cotton socks, 107,000 
pairs woolen socks, 35,000 pairs foot soldiers' trousers, 23,000 pairs 
mounted soldiers' trousers, 170,000 cotton undershirts, 83,000 woolen 
undershirts, besides other necessary articles of apparel for the soldiers' 
use, together with 210,000 yards of blouse flannel, 114,000 yards of shirt 
flannel, and 137,000 yards of kersey. 

Of camp equipage there was available about G,750 common tents, 
1,450 conical wall tents, 730 hospital tents, 38,000 halves of shelter 
tents, 2,750 wall tents, 400,000 yards of duck cauvns, and a tolerably 
good supply for the existing army of the many articles needed for use 
in camp and on the march. 

In March the Quartermaster- General directed the officers at the 
Government manufacturing depots to push manufactures in certain 
lines, and authorized the purchase of additional material for tentage and 
clothing, not, however, on an extensive scale. He also instructed the 
depot officers to ascertain aud report the number of tents of every size 
that could be purchased and how rapidly they could be manufactured. 
Some purchases were made early in April, and about the middle of that 
month correspondence was opened with manufacturers of blankets, 
blouse and shirting flannels, kersey, shoes, leggings, and other neces- 
saries for the purpose of ascertaining prices and in what quantities 
and how rapidly the articles could be obtained. 

On April 20 and 25 proposals were invited, under a few days' notice, 
for large quantities pf clothing materials, for blaijkets, forage caps, 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 129 

ponchos, shoes, summer underclothiug-, and in fact all classes of mate- 
rials for clothinjj;-, camp and garrison eiiuipage. 

During April and May arrangements w^ere made for purchases in vari- 
ous large cities of our country amounting in value to about $3,000,000. 

Among the articles issued by the department between May 1 and 
August 15 were about 5-10,300 blankets, 390,800 blouses, 523,200 pairs 
trousers, 476,700 campaign hats, 153,170 canvas field uniforms, 782,300 
pairs shoes, 588,800 pairs leggings, 622,200 dark blue flannel shirts, 
1,257,000 undershirts, 1,210,080 pairs drawers, 65,000 tents, exclusive of 
shelter tents, 372,400 halves of shelter tents, 39,000 axes, 34,300 camp 
kettles, 58,600 mess pans, besides a multitude of minor articles. 

It is understood that the department, after having once started with 
its plans, adopted every possible expedient to obtain supplies, but met 
with many difficulties. 

There was but very little standard duck canvas in the market of this 
country, and the production of tents was governed entirely by the 
ability of the mills to turn out i)roper material. 

To meet the immediate demands of the troops, all the tentage that 
could be obtained in the various cities, which seemed of fair (luality, 
was purchased. Much of this proved short lived, and the troops during 
the rainy season suffered discomfort accordingly. 

The same trouble occurred with some of the articles of clothing, par- 
ticularly in the article of sky-blue trousers, where the w^ool had to be 
dyed out of which to manufacture the cloth. It became necessary to 
provide dark-blue material, which was available, but which did not 
come up to the standard of the sky blue, being lighter and not satisfac- 
tory on account of color. 

The Quartermaster-General states that these articles were shipped in 
bulk to tlie various camps as soon as obtained, without waiting for 
requisitions or requests of any sort, and the depo't quartermasters were 
urged to inform the department as the supply of any article ran low. 

In spite of every effort there were occasions where troops suffered 
from poor tentage or from lack of tentage and absence of straw for 
bedding, where clothing was scarce and troops suffered discomfort for 
lack of shoes, shirts, and other articles of apparel. This was noticed 
even as late as October in the camps at Anniston, Huutsville, and 
Lexington, while at Huntsville, Ala., and Fort Monroe, Ya., in spite of 
the cool nights, there was a lack of stoves in the hospitals, and at 
Huntsville the supply of Avood was short. With some of the troops 
sent from San Francisco to Manila the deficiency in shoes of proper 
size continued even up to August 31. 

At Santiago the deficiency at the front appears to have been caused 
rather from lack of transportation from the coast than from lack of 
clothing and tentage, a supply of which was on the transports. 

The question of the character of clothing for troops in a tropical 
country is one for serious consideration of experts, and this commission 
7833— VOL. 1 9 



130 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

is gratified to learu that the matter is receiving the thoughtfal atteution 
of the War Department. 

2. PUBLIC ANIMALS FOR WAGONS, ETC., WAGONS, HARNESS, AMBU- 
LANCES—HORSES FOR CAVALRY AND ARTILLERY. 

On April 1, 1898, the department had at its command G,701 horses, 
1,188 wagons, and 4,963 sets of harness. Between July 1, 1897, and 
March 31, 1898, the average cost of animals was as follows: 

Cavalry horses $126. 15 

Aitillery horses l*^^- '^9 

Draft horses - 148.11 

Draft mules 99.84 

Pack mules 7L. 93 

Between April 1 and August 31, 1898, there were purchased at 
prices indicated the following: 

Average cost. 

10,743 cavalry horses $100.42 

2,551 artillery horses 130. 85 

1,137 draft horses 125.38 

2,115 ridiug horses (including 1,500 small horses for Cuban service) 77. 70 

•32 hell horses 49.84 

40 pack horses 30. 00 

17,515 draft mules 110.05 

2,667 pack mules 83. 15 

The wagons, ambulances, harness, etc., procured between July 1, 
1897, and March 31, 1898, and between April 1 and August 31, 1898, 
were as follows : 





Peace period, from July 1, 
1897, to M.ar. 31, 1898 (9 
months). 


War period, from Apr. 1, 1898, 
to Aug. 3], 1898 (5 months). 


• 


Num- 
ber. 


Total cost. 


Average 
cost. 


Num- 
ber. 


Total cost. 


Average 
cost. 










604 

109 

3,605 

70 

8 

500 
59 
224 


.$01,467.00 
8, 584. 75 

238, 942. 75 
18,218.00 
1, 540. 60 

122, 950. 00 
13, 259. 50 
13, 148. 50 


$101. 77 










78.76 










06.28 




8 
4 


$2, 295. 00 
9^4. 00 


$286. 87 
236. 00 


260. 26 




192. 58 


Ambulances : 


245. 90 










224. 74 










58.70 












Total 


12 

30 


3, 239. 00 
900. 00 




5,179 
28, 012 


478,111.10 ! 




30.66 


358,449.18 1 









Horses for cavalry were purchased, so far as was practicable and 
economical, in the States from which the regiments came by boards of 
officers appointed for the purpose. The mules and a portion of the 
horses were purciiased by officers of the Quartermaster's Department 
after a call for figures. 

Before war was declared the Quartermaster-General called upon 
prominent wagon and harness manufacturers of the country for infor- 
mation in reference to their ability to promptly supply wagons and 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



131 



harness suitable for army use in case of emergency and to what extent 
their factories could be relied upon to snpply the needs of the Army. 
These in(iuiries also secured information as to the stock of wagons and 
harness on hand and enabled the department when the emergency did 
arise to place wagons and harness at convenient points for issue to the 
troops in the held. 

The following animals, wagons, and ambulances were purchased and 
issued by August 31 : 

Purchased : 

Horses 16,618 

Mules 20, 182 

Total 36,800 

Wagons 4,620 

Ambulances 559 

Issued : 

Horses 16,483 

Mules 19,550 

Total 36,033 

Wagons and ambulances 4, 891 

Great complaint was made of lack of transportation facilities at the 
camp at Montauk Point, N. Y., and Col. W. H. Forwood, Assistant 
Surgeon-General, United States Army, chief surgeon of the camp, 
testifies as follows: "The trouble was, we did not get ambulances and 
wagons as fast as we needed them;" and further states, "when ambu- 
lances came they were sometimes incomplete." 

Col. C. P. Miller, of the Quartermaster's Department, states that it 
was decided to use Montauk as a camp on August 2, and that trans- 
portation was shipped to that locality between August 3 and Septem- 
ber 7, as follows : 



Date. 



From whence. 



Mules. Horses. Wagons, jo^es" 



1898. 

Aug. 3 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

13 

13 

U 

14 

15 

16 

18 

19 

19 

19 

28 

Sept. 3 

4 

5 

7 



Governors Island 
St. Asaphs 



St. A.saph.s 

Tampa, with Sixth Cavalry 

St. Asaphs 

do 

Chickaniauga 

Tampa, with Ninth Cavalry 

Camp Alger 

Tampa, with Third Cavalry 

Van A ken Company 

St. Asaplis , 

do 

New York 

Tampa, with First Cavalry 

Lakeland, with Tenth Cavalry , 

St. Aaaphs , 

Toledo, Ohio 

St. Asaphs , 

do 

do 



Total . 



4 
150 
60 
101 



120 
100 
107 



286 
218 
179 



50 

"i28' 



a48 



ain addition to the 48 amhulances there was a number brought from Tampa and Lakeland with 
troops. 



132 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
3. TRANSPORTATION BY LAND AND WATER. 

RAILROADS. 

No arrangements were made for tlie movements of regiments by rail- 
road for Held duty previous to April 1. 

On May 8 the Quartermaster-Geueral, in anticipation of the trans- 
fer of large bodies of troops, notified the officers of his department of 
the proposed movements, and directed them to make proper arrange- 
ments with the railroad officials, so that tlie troops might be moved 
with comfort and celerity. These othcers appear to have acted with 
zeal in obtaining rates, in many cases very advantageous to the Gov- 
ernment. When extended journeys covering night travel were to be 
made, tourists' cars were obtained wherever possible, and when these 
could not be obtained the contracts provided that each soldier should 
have a double seat. 

The Quartermaster-General reports tliat in making these movements 
the rates generally did not exceed 1^- cents per mile for passengers in 
many cases being less. 

There were transported by rail between April 1 and the breaking up 
of Camp Wikoff, early in November, 17,803 officers and 435,569 enlisted 
men. 

Many complaints were made in reference to unnecessary delays and 
lack of promptness on the part of the Quartermaster's Department in 
moving regiments and in the care of sick and convalescents returning 
home either with their regiments or alone. 

Col. H. L. Turner, of the First Illinois Volunteer Infantry, states that 
his experience was terrible Avhen he removed his regiment from Mon- 
tauk to Chicago, the suifering of the sick having been intense, greatly 
owing to the delay of one railroad company in having proper cars 
ready for his command. 

In explanation of this delay it is stated that a mistake was made by 
the commanding general of the camp at Montauk in ordering the regi- 
ment to be in readiness to embark twenty-four hours in advance of the 
time indicated by the chief quartermaster in New York City. 

Vast quantities of freight were handled and sent to the camps at 
Chickamauga, Jacksonville, Fernandina, Miami; Duun-Loring, Va. 
(Camp Alger); Camp Meade, Pennsylvania; Camp Wikoft; Montauk 
Point, and to the camps at Anniston, Huntsville, Knoxville, Lexington, 
Tampa, and other localities throughout the South. 

Great complaint was made of the railroad congestion at Tampa and 
the absolute lack of ability to bring order out of chaos at that place 
during the early part of the period of its occupancy by troops. The 
Major-General Commanding has stated that supplies for 70,000 men for 
90 days were ordered there, and the confusion on the railroad when he 
reached Tampa was very great, 1,000 cars being sidetracked, some of 
them as far back as Columbia, S. C. 



REPORT OP THE COMMISSION. • 133 

It is stated tliat in the hurry and rush •attending the commencement 
of this work the contents of cars were unknown at Tampa; that bills 
of lading were not forwarded, and that it seemed impossible for a time 
to determine where absolutely necessary articles were located. 

Colonel Bird, of the Quartermaster's Department, testifies that this 
was corrected later on, when the contents of cars were clearly marked 
upon them and bills of lading promptly forwarded. 

The condition of the railroad congestion during the early portion of 
the time Tampa was occupied by troops seems unparalleled, showing 
an almost inexcusable lack of excutive ability on the part of those 
charged with the loading, unloading, and handling of the trains. 

Colonel Bird and General Humphrey testify that there were very 
poor facilities for transferring troops and supplies arriving at Tampa 
via the Florida Central Eailroad to the Plant System leading direct to 
Port Tampa. 

Order was finally brought out of chaos, the cars unloaded, the con- 
gestion overcome, and a vast amount of supplies of every character 
delivered at this immense encampment. 

Congestion also occurred at Chickamauga Park, jirobably with not 
so serious results as at Tampa, but complaint was made that materials 
of different classes, belonging to different departments, were frequently 
packed in the same car, rendering it necessary to remove large packages 
of quartermaster's or commissary stores in order to obtain the smaller 
packages of medicines and medical supplies. 

There was also congestion and confusion in connection with the railroad 
facilities between the 5th and 15th of August at Camp Wikoff, caused 
by the side tracks being in such condition that they could not be used. 
Cars in switching would get off the track and cause blockades for hours; 
troops and animals came by rail from Long Island City more rapidly 
than they could be unloaded and cared for at Montauk. By the middle 
of August the side tracks were in order and necessary storehouses made 
available for supplies. The railroad between Montauk and Long Island 
City was evidently worked to its maximum capacity. 

WATER TRANSPOUTATION. 

For more than half a century it had not been necessary for the United 
States to send large bodies of troops by sea for the invasion of a foreign 
country, but in May, 1898, the Quartermaster's Department was sud- 
denly called upon to prepare for work of this important character. 

The Quartermaster-General reports that the needs of his department 
for the transportation of troops and supplies by sea were canvassed 
prior to Ai)ril 1, 1898, and measures taken to ascertain the best method 
for providing such transportation. 

On March 24, the Quartermaster-General directed the depot quarter- 
inaster in Kew York to report at once all available vessels of tlie (coast- 
line steamship companies that could be obtained by charter, and to 
state their capacity, etc. The reply reached him ouMarch 29, furnishing 



134 iNVfiSTlGATlON OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

the desired information, but adding that a member of the board on aux- 
iliary cruisers had stated that the Navy had absolute option on all boats 
of the most prominent steamship companies. 

The testimony before the commission shows that between April 1 and 
August 31, 44 steamships were chartered and 14 purchased for service 
on the Atlantic and Gulf waters; that 17 were chartered and 2 pur- 
chased for service on the Pacific Ocean, and that all were fitted up, to 
a certain'extent, for the transportation of troops, animals, and supplies. 
While complaints have been made as to the character of the equip- 
ment of the vessels used on the Atlantic, the reports from those on the 
Pacific show them to have been arranged as satisfactorily as was 
possible. 

The steamship JohnEnglis was also purchased, at a cost of $450,000, 
for the use of the Medical Department, and after some delay was refitted 
as a hospital ship, at a cost of $136,851.11, and renamed the Relief. The 
total tonnage of the ships used as transports on the Atlantic coast was 
166,987 tons, and the Quartermaster-General reports that they were 
fitted up for the accommodation of 40,723 officers and men. 

The total tonnage of the ships on the Pacific coast was 61,287 tons, 
and they were reported as having been arranged so as to accommodate 
18,120 officers and men. 

The records of the Quartermaster's Department show that troops and 
civilian employees were transported by sea between April 1 and Sep- 
tember 15, 1898, as follows : 

Men. 

To Cuba 28,195 

To Porto Rico » 17,4G0 

To Manila 16,405 

To Honolulu 629 

Returned from Cuba 21, 686 

Returned from Porto Rico 5, 541 

Civilian employees transported 2,920 

Total 92,836 

The testimony shows that the first call upon the Quartermaster's 
Department was for ships to transport 5,000 men to Cuba, and that 
soon after the call was increased and demand made for steamers to 
transport 25,000. 

The fleet of transports concentrated at Port Tampa, Fla., for trans- 
portation of these 25,000 men to Cuba consisted of 38 vessels, and 
included 2 water boats, 3 steam lighters, 1 collier, 1 tug, and 2 decked 
barges. Upon loading these vessels it was found that their capacity 
had been largely overrated, and it was impossible to carry upon them, 
without great discomfort and danger, more than 16,000 men, with their 
equipments, artillery, ammunition, subsistence, medical supplies, and 
2,295 animals, for a voyage of 1,000 miles. Even with this reduction 
the vessels appear to have been crowded. 

In spite of the efforts of the Quartermaster's Department many of 
these vessels were poorly equipped with sleeping accommodations; the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 135 

sinks ill many instances were inconvenient and insufficient, and some of 
the vessels were badly ventilated and filled with disagreeable odors. 
It has been stated that had the fleet encountered a severe storm while 
en route for Cuba the discomfort would have been intense and there 
might have been loss of life. The Quartermaster's Department ought to 
have been able to more thoroughly equip these vessels, and surely it 
should have been more certain of their carrying capacity. A sufficient 
number of vessels for transporting 25,000 men, with the required 
lighters for their disembarkation, should have been promptly fur- 
nished, even had such action rendered necessary the seizure of every 
steamer on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts sailing under the American 
flag. 

Testimony shows that the vessels were not loaded systematically. 
A battery with its guns and horses would be placed on one vessel and 
its ammunition on another. The Second, Seventh, and Seventeenth 
Regular Infantry were each divided up and portions in each case sent 
on three different vessels. 

The Quartermaster-General reports that pontoons were taken for use 
in landing in coves and in still water when possible; that urgent but 
unavailing efforts were made to procure lighters for purposes of dis- 
embarkation ; that three steam lighters were chartered at Galveston 
and one ocean tug at Mobile and sent to Port Tampa to accompany 
the Santiago expedition, and that two decked barges were purchased 
at Tampa for the same purpose. 

A seagoing tug with three barges started from Mobile for Cuba; 
another with two barges started from New Orleans for the same des- 
tination, but all of these barges, except one, were lost, and only one of 
the tugs reached Santiago. One tug was reported as having broken 
down or left the fleet while en route for Santiago. 

The fleet of transports arrived safely at Daiquiri, but the failure to 
provide a full and sufficient number of lighters for disembarkation 
of troops, supplies, and artillery caused delay, anxiety, annoyance, 
and danger, and had there been serious storms, or had the lauding 
been opposed by a vigilant and well-trained force of the enemy, the 
result might have been far different. 

Finally, the Quartermaster's Department entered into contract with 
a New York firm to fit out an expedition with a large force of mechanics 
and laborers, with necessary materials, machinery, pile drivers, and 
implements for construction of docks and railways. The Quartermaster- 
General reports that this outfit proceeded to Santiago, Cuba, and thence 
to Ponce, Porto Rico, where its services were of much assistance to the 
Army. 

The testimony shows that in the transjiortation of the SfJanish pris- 
oners from Santiago to Spain the interests of the General Government 
received the most ample protection ; that proposals were invited ; that 
every effort was made to procure proper vessels, to provide for the care 
and comfort of the men, and that the cost of transportation by the 



136 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Spanisli Traus- Atlantic Company was at the rate of $55 each for oflBcers 
and $20 each for enlisted men. The first proposal of the company was 
at the rate of $60 and $30, respectively, but they finally reduced their 
demands, so that the total price paid was over $200,000 less than the 
original offer. 

The contract required that at the price named the company should 
furnish subsistence and medical attendance and practically care for 
these prisoners from the time of their embarkation until landed in 
Sjiain. The total number of persons transported was 22,804, at a cost 
of $513,800. 

The purchase of transports by the department showed an equal effort 
to guard the interests of the General Government, and the testimony is 
to the effect that the purchase of these vessels was made direct either 
with the owners or their agents; that the prices were reasonable, and 
neither fees nor allowances were granted by the Government ofiScials 
or i)aid by the Government to so-called middlemen. 

The following vessels were purchased for use on the Atlantic and 
Gulf coasts : 



Name of vessel. 


Tonnage. 


Cost. 


Class. 


Carrying capacity. 


Olficers. 


Men. 


Animals. 




2,085 
2,792 
2,194 
5,658 
5,780 
5,673 
5, 673 
5, 796 
3,732 
3,722 
4,126 
3,656 
5,641 
4,770 


$41, 000 
175, 000 
125, 000 
600, 000 
660, ODO 
660, 000 
G60, 000 
660, 000 
350, 000 
350, 000 
240, 000 
250, 000 
400, 000 
200, 000 




10 
25 
15 

80 
80 
80 
SO 
100 
40 
40 
45 
50 
75 


400 
400 

700 
1,000 
1,000 

1, 000 
1,000 
1,200 

800 

800 

1,100 

1,300 

2, 000 




Port Victor, No. 2 








do 




Mohawk, No. 20 


Combination 

do 

do 


1 000 


Mobile, No. 21 


1 000 




1 000 




do 


1,000 




... do 


1 000 




do 


800 


Micliif^an, No. 26 


do 

do 


800 




50 


Obdam No. 30 


Troop ship 

do 


100 


Berlin, No. 31 




Chester, No. 32 


....do 














Total 


Oi; 298 


5,431,000 


720 


12, 700 


6,750 







Eight of these vessels were provided with refrigerators for the trans- 
portation of fresh meat, seven of them having a capacity of 1,000 tons 
each. Two, the Panama and the Iiita, were captured by the Navy, and 
were purchased by the Quartermaster's Department after having been 
condemned as prizes by the proper courts and offered for sale. 

All of these were merchant vessels, and were temporarily fitted up as 
army transports to meet the urgent demands of the service, for which 
purpose an exi)enditure of $178,018.37 was made. 

For use in the Pacific Ocean the following steamships were pur- 
cliased : 



Name of vessel. 


Tonnage. 


Cost. 


Carrying 

capacity 

(men). 




4,253 
5,000 


$200, 000 
600, 000 


1 500 




1,700 







REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 137 

The Scandia was fitted out as a hospital ship and the Arizona for the 
transportation of troops and snpplies to TlonoUilu and IManila, Seri- 
ous coiuphiints were made in reference to the condition of the Chester, 
upon which the First United States Volunteer Engineers were trans- 
ported to Porto Rico, and of the Berlin when it was loaded at New 
Orleans with the First United States Volunteer immunes. 

It was stated that when the Sixth Massachusetts Volunteers were 
taken to Porto Rico on the United States naval vessel Yale they 
were subjected to discomfort and abuse. The testimony before the 
commission does not sustain this charge, but shows that the discomforts 
were no greater than might have been anticipated for any troops mak- 
ing such a trip under similar circumstances. 

TRANSPORTS FOR PORTO RICO. 

The first troops for the Porto Ricau campaign sailed on the war vessel 
Yale from Guantanamo, Cuba, under the Commanding General of the 
Army, on July 21, and landed at Guanica, Porto Rico, July 25; from 
that date until August 20 forty transports arrived at the island, loaded 
with troops, munitions of war, and supplies. 

In addition to these, the Gypsum Kinfj arrived August 10, towing three 
large lighters or barges consigned to Messrs. Van Aiken & Co., con- 
tractors, and loaded with lumber, bridge timber, railroad iron, coal, 
and other supplies, and a steam tug. The latter was transferred to the 
Quartermaster's Department, and was of great assistance in towing 
lighters to and from the transports to shallow water, in which they 
could be pulled to the docks. 

The loading of some of these transports exhibited carelessness, and 
in several instances important supplies intended for the army of Gen- 
eral Shatter were found ujion theuj. 

Thirty- six vessels arrived at Porto Rico without invoices to show 
their contents, causing much confusion and requiring the overhauling 
of the entire cargo in order to learn the contents of the ship. The first 
invoice was received with cargo ^o. 37, that of the Alamo^ which left 
Newport News, Va., on August 9 and reached Ponce on August 16. 
After that date regular invoices accompanied each vessel. 

The first steam launch supplied by the (Quartermaster's Department 
arrived on the Ritaj which sailed from Tampa August 15, and reached 
Ponce August 23. 

Gen. James H. Wilson, United States Volunteers, testifies that his 
command, while en route for Porto Rico, was delayed two weeks in 
Charleston, S. C, by failure of the transports to arrive, and that when 
he reached Ponce the disembarkation of the troops and materials was 
delayed by lack of landing facilities, so that ten days were required 
for a work that should have been accomplished in two days had there 
been proper steam tugs, launches, etc., available. 



138 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

THE MANILA EXPEDITION. 

Major-General Merritt testifies that the transports used on the Pacific 
Ocean for conveying troops to Manila were carefully inspected by the 
Quartermaster's Department; that every possible change tliat was 
necessary was made, and that the vessels reached their destination 
without severe sickness among the troops or serious annoyance of 
any kind. 

The first expedition for Manila sailed from San Francisco, Oal., on 
May 25, under command of General Anderson, with 2,491 officers and 
men, upon three steamships. City of Sydney, Australia, and City of 
Pcliing. 

The second expedition, under command of General Greene, with 3,586 
officers and men, sailed on June 15 on the steamships China, Colon, and 
Zealandia. 

The third expedition, under command of General Merritt, with tlie 
command of General MacArthur, consisting of 4,847 officers and men, 
sailed on June 25, 27, 28, and 29 on the steamships Senator, Morgan 
City, City of Para, Indiana, Ohio, Valencia, and Netcport. 

The fourth expedition, under command of Gen. Elwell S. Otis, with 
1,682 officers and men, sailed July 15 on the steamships Peru and City 
of Puebla, followed on July 19 by the steamship Pennsylvania, with 
1,348 officers and men. 

The last expedition, under command of Gen. H. G. Otis, sailed on 
July 23 and 29 on the steamshii)s City of Rio de Janeiro and St. Paul, 
with 1,735 officers and men. 

These vessels arrived safely at Manila, and the reports show that as 
a rule the health of the men was maintained during the long voyage 
of over 7,000 miles. 

The sailiug ship Taconia, with 30 enlisted men, 19 civilian teamsters, 
210 horses and mules, 44 wagons and ambulances, and six months' sup- 
ply of subsistence and forage, sailed from San Francisco on August 6. 
On August 21 the steamship Arizona, with 490 officers and men and 4 
women nurses on board, sailed from San Francisco, and on August 
29 the steamship Scandia sailed with troops for Honolulu and 173 offi- 
cers and men for Manila. 

The entire movements show that transportation was furnished from 
San Francisco to Manila for 16,405 persons, with their equipments and 
supplies. 

CONTRACTS. 

Contracts covering millions of dollars were made by the Quarter- 
master's Department during the period between April 1 and October 1, 
and although indefinite charges have from time to time been made of 
fraud and collusion, no evidence has been produced before the commis- 
sion to substantiate these charges, although the parties making them 
have been invited to appear. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 139 

The comuiissiou has made every effort to reach witnesses who might 
be supposed to liave any knowledge upon this subject. 

Under date of November 1, tlie Ne\y York Workl telegraphed the 
president of the commission that it had collected many facts of alleged 
influences exerted to affect the awarding of war contracts by the Gov- 
ernment and offered to present to the commission "legal documents, 
contracts, articles of retainer, affidavits," etc., bearing directly ui)on 
contracts and efforts to influence their award, together with the names 
of persons that could be called as witnesses in relation to the facts in 
the World's possession. 

The World requested the commission to give the matter immediate 
attention and added that if this could be done its representative would 
at once be sent to Washington to present the facts. 

On November 2, the commission through its vice-president notified 
the World that when it arrived in New York It would be very happy 
to hear any witnesses that might be produced by the World or by any 
person. 

When the commission reached New York under date of November 
19, it notified the World that it was prepared to investigate any con- 
tract that had been made by the Government, where fraud was charged 
against any officer of the War Department, and would be pleased to 
hear any evidence bearing upon such cases. 

Under date of November 29, after the commission had left New York 
City, the following reply was received : 

[The World. Morning Edition. Editorial Department, Pulitzer Building, Park Row, N. T.] 

New York, November 29, 1898. 
Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, 

President of the Commission appointed hy the President to 

Investigate the Conduct of the War Department in the War with Spain. 

Dear Sir: Tho World received in due course yonr courteous note of November 
19, stating that "The connnission is pre^Jared to investigate any contract tliat has 
been made by the Government where fraud is charged or undue intluence against 
any ofticer of the War Department," and adding that "If the World has any evi- 
dence bearing upon such cases, the commission would be pleased to hear it." 

Knowing the great difficulty often experienced in establishing facts by legal 
proof, even in a court of justice, the World carefully considered and took counsel 
on yonr offer during the nearly three weeks that elapsed between the making of the 
proposition and the meeting of your commission in this city. It observed the pro- 
ceedings of the comjiission from day to day, and could not fail to perceive the pub- 
lic knowledge of the fact that your commission had neither the power to com- 
pel the attendance of Avitnesses nor to jirotect those who had volunteered their 
testimony. 

The witnesses to the facts discovered by the World in relation to a trade in army 
contracts were tinwilling to 8ul)mit to an ex parte examination in these circum- 
stances. As their attendance could not be compelled, the World deems it best to 
await the Congressional investigation which it hopes will be ordered and conducted 
with a determined purpose and adetjuate authority to bring to light all the facts 
relative to the "conduct of the War Department in the war with Spain." 
Repectfully, yours. 

The New York World. 



140 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

At a later date tlie statement was made that a Mr. W. H. Kyaii bad 
intimated tliat there had been frand or rascality in the matter of con- 
tracts. 

The only Mr. W. H. Eyan known to the commission was a Representa- 
tive elect from the State of i^ew York. He was courteonsly invited to 
appear before the commission, but under date of December 12 tele- 
graphed from Buffalo, N. Y., as follows: 

I have made no complaint personally or in writing concerning war investigation; 
any use of my name verbally is unauthorized, in writing is a forgery. 

Representative Ryan did not appear before the commission, and the 
parties making the statement in reference to a Mr. Ryan failed to fur- 
nish his address when requested. 

Under date of November 21, 1898, Mr. E. M. Knox, of N^ew York, a 
prominent merchant engaged in the hat business, wrote to the commis- 
sion, charging that the quartermaster's department in Philadelphia was 
rotten and corrux)t, and stating that he had made earnest and unavail- 
ing efforts to have the Quartermaster-General investigate the subject; 
that the latter was holding the evidence he had submitted, and urging 
the commission to aid him in obtaining the papers he had left with the 
Quartermaster-General, and then to grant him a hearing. 

Under date of November 22 the commission offered to hear Mr. 
Knox on the 23d of November, and added that if he preferred to await 
the return of his papers it would be gratified to hear him in Wash- 
ington. 

The commission brought the subject to the attention of the Quarter- 
master's Department, and requested the return to Mr. Knox of his 
papers. 

In the meantime it was learned that the matter in which Mr. Knox 
was interested was a large contract for hats, which contract, it is under- 
stood, he claimed should have been awarded to him. 

The subject was carefully investigated by Col. James M. Moore, assist- 
ant ([uarterm aster- general. United States Army, who, in his testimony 
before this commission, fully demonstrated that the award of the con- 
tract as madewas a proper one and perfectly free from the very slightest 
taint of fraud. 

Upon the return of the commission to Washington, and after Colonel 
Moore's report had been made, it again invited Mr. Knox before it, but 
be declined, on the ground that the Quartermaster-General had not 
returned to him all the evidence he bad left with him, and he was, 
therefore, not ready to testify. 

The foregoing were the only specific cases submitted to the commis- 
sion, and in each instance, as will be observed, the parties presenting 
them failed to a^jpear and substantiate their statements. 

From all the facts before the commission there is no reason whatever 
even to suspect that any officer or agent of the Quartermaster's Depart- 
ment has been actuated by other than the x>urest motives in making 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 141 

contracts for supplies and transportation, and that in every instance 
tliey had in view the best interests of the great Government they had 
sworn to snpport. 

Comment has been made in reference to the contract with the Long 
Ishmd Railroad in regard to traffic between tlie camp at Montauk Point 
and New York City. This contract provided for the transportation of 
ail ])ersons connected with the military service of the United States at 
the rate of 1 cent per mile and freight at a discount of 25 per cent off 
the regular published tariff freight rates of the railroad company ; it 
also required that the company should construct additional side tracks 
where necessary and provide free switching of cars to secure prompt 
loading and unloading. 

The proviso which caused invidious comment was as follows: 

Aucl iu cousideration thereof the militaiy authorities iu charj^e of said camp will 
uot coutract with or employ any other carrier for transportation facilities for troops 
or freight between said camp and X6w York or points on Long Island, and that no ves- 
sel owned or controlled by private individuals or corjiorations shall be permitted to 
laud at or use the present or any future docks on Montauk Point for passengers or 
freight trafBc between said camp and New York or points on Long Island without 
the permission of the railroad company. It is agreed, however, that any Govern- 
ment transport or vessel may discharge and load troops or supplies at such dock or 
docks, and that vessels may take or discharge passengers thereat from or to other 
points than those hereinabove excejjted, with the permission of the military authorities. 

It was claimed that this contract gave the railroad comijauy complete 
control of the entire transportation from all points to Montauk Point. 
The last portion of the part quoted shows that the Government reserved 
the right to use jts transports and vessels as it pleased between JSTew 
York and elsewhere and Montauk Point, and that from all locali- 
ties except Kew York City and points on Long Island any vessels 
might take or discharge passengers with permission of the military 
authorities. 

Testimony before the commission shows that the proviso prohibiting 
vessels owned or controlled by private individuals or corjiorations from 
landing at the docks for passenger or freight traffic between New York 
and Montauk Point was especially inserted by the distinguished officer, 
since dead, who signed the contract, for the purpose of preventing the 
landing of excursion parties or of improper articles at Camp Wikoff. 

TRANSPORTATION OF MEDICAL SUPPLIES AND OF SICK AND WOUNDED SOLDIERS. 

It is somewhat difficult to follow up the transportation of medical 
supplies. 

Large quantities were purchased by the surgeons in charge of the 
medical depots iu New York, St. Louis, and San Francisco, carefully 
boxed, and transferred to the Quartermaster's Department for trans- 
portation to the various camps and to the armies in the field at Santiago, 
Porto Rico, and Manila. 

So far as railroad transportation was concerned, the usual steps appear 



142 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

to liavc been taken. The supplies were sent as freight, and the great 
delay in delivery at Tampa and Chickamauga was mainly due to the 
congestion* of the railroads at those places, to which reference has been 
made in the foregoing. The supi^lies were sometimes sent by express, 
thus insuring their more prompt delivery. It Avould have been prefer- 
able in every large shipment by railroad had an agent of either the 
Quartermaster's or Medical Department accompanied the supplies to 
their destination. 

The delay in some instances in receiving medical supplies at Santiago 
seems to have been partially due to carelessness in loading them on the 
transports. This is shown in the cases of the steamship La Grande 
Duchesse, which left Charleston, S. C, July 20; ujion unloading the 
vessel at Ponce, on July 28, a large sujiply of medical stores were found 
upon her destined for General Shatter's army at Santiago. The vessel 
was ordered to Santiago July 31. 

When the Mobile, which left Charleston July 22, was being unloaded, 
on August 5, at Ponce, five tons of ice and a large supply of medical and 
hospital stores, intended for the army at Santiago, were found on board. 
The Mobile was ordered to Santiago August 7. 

Attention is invited to the fact that General Shatter's telegram to the 
Secretary of War, reporting scarcity of medicines at Santiago, is dated 
August 4, 1898. 

Under date of July 30, Colonel Greenleaf telegraphed the Surgeon- 
General that tliere was a large sick report at Ponce, Porto Eico; that 
tentage, medical supplies, and doctors were lacking, and urging that 
hosiiital ships should be sent there promptly. 

A special outfit was provided, under orders of the Secretary of War, 
to be used by the Surgeon-General as a hospital train. This train was 
made up of ten tourist sleepers, two kitchen and dining cars, and a 
combined i:)assenger and baggage car. It was furnished by the Medical 
Department, supplied with trained nurses, and kept exclusively for 
the purpose of carrying sick and wounded to points designated by the 
proper medical officers. 

For the transportation of the sick and wounded by sea the steamship 
John Englis was purchased, thoroughly refitted, after some delay, with 
all modern appliances and conveniences as a hospital ship, and trans- 
ferred to the Medical Department. 

On July 1 Mr. B. jST. Baker, president of the Atlantic Transport Line, 
Baltimore, Md., generously placed at the disposal of the Government 
the steamship Missouri, with its captain and crew, for use as a hospital 
ship. Mr. Baker's ofi'er was i)romi)tly accepted, and on July 15 the 
Quartermaster's Department was requested to fit the vessel for the pur- 
pose of transporting six or seven hundred sick or wounded men; that 
department stated that its officer in charge of such work in New York 
reported that the necessary improvements could be made within two 
weeks, but it was not until August 23 that the ship was ready to sail. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



143 



The steaiiKsliip Olivette was selected by Lieuteiuiiit-Coloiiel Pope, of 
tbe Mediciil Department, for a liospital sliij), to accompany the army to 
Santiago. 

The steamers Seticea and Goncho were used as hospital ships for the 
return of sick and wounded from Santiago in July. Their conditions for 
this purpose were very unsuitable. An officer who was on the Seneca 
reports: 

The water supply aboiird tlio vessel was beyoud description. It smelled badly 
aud was filled with something that looked like iron rust, but which I was told was 
rotten wood, and was of such a character that I absolutely could not drink it. 

A witness testities that on the steamer Concho^ during the trans- 
portation of the sick, the water was offensive to the sight, taste, and 
smell, and that the sleeping accommodations consisted of rough board 
bunks, without mattresses, pillows, or blankets. 

Another witness testifies that, by consent of the medical authorities, 
she went on board the Seneca on July 13, the day before the vessel 
started north with sick aud wounded, and acted in capacity of nurse 
during the voyage. She states that the captain of the ship informed 
her that his vessel was not clean, not fit for a hospital ship, and that 
not a soul had examined or inspected it for hospital purposes. She adds 
that the ship was overcrowded; the staterooms on starting were occu- 
pied by passengers to the exclusion of the sick; that the two surgeons, 
one of whom was ill nearly all the time, had no surgical instruments, 
and that, with the exception of a few supplies she obtained from the 
lied Cross Association, there was no food on board for the sick and 
wounded other than the regular army ration; the staterooms were 
vacated after starting and given up to the sick and wounded. 

The condition of the transports aud the treatment on board of the sick 
and wounded are discussed elsewhere in the report of the commission. 

The following statement shows the sailing of army transports between 
July 12 and November 22, 1898, from Cuba and Porto Rico with troops, 
dates of sailing, destination, date of arrival, and number of sick and 
convalescents on board so far as shown by the records of the Quarter- 
master-General's Office: 



Name of vessel. 



Port sailed 
from. 




Destination. 



Date 


of 


arriv 


al. 


1898 
Aug. 
Sept. 
Sept. 


U 

8 
2 


July 
Aug. 
Aug. 


30 
26 
13 


Sept. 
Aug. 


21 
6 


Sept. 


14 



Troops ou board. 



Number 

of sick 

anil couva- 

lesceuts. 



Vigilancia . 

Do 

Orizaba 



■Santiago... 

Do 

Seguran^a . 



Do... 
Saratoga. 



Santiago. 

do ... 

do ... 



.do ... 
-do ... 
-do ... 



-do... 
..do ... 



Do. 



.do. 



1898. 
Aug. 8 
Sept. 6 
Aug. 26 

July 24 
Aug. 19 
July 30 

Sept. 15 
July 30 

Sept. 8 



Montauk Point 

do 

do 

Tampa 

Montauk Point 
Tampa aud New 
York. 

New York 

Tampa 

New York 



6th Infantry 

Stragglers 

Payni a .s t e r s an d 
clerks. 

iiaif 34th Michigan 



331 

50 
Convales- 
cent. 
255 



144 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Name of vessel. 



Seneca. 



Do... 

Yucatan. 

Do... 

Do... 



Cityof Washing, 
ton 

Manteo 

Concho 



Do. 

Leona . 
Do. 



San Marcos. 
Eio Grande. 



Do. 



Comal . 

Alamo . 

Do. 



Cherokee . 
Iroquois .. 



Comanche . 
Mat tea wan , 



Miami 

Breakwater. 



Aransas 

D.H.Miller. 



Berkshire. 
Do.... 



Allegheny . 

Do 

Olivette 



City of Macon 
Gate City 



Catania 

Louisiana 

Knickerbocker 



Hudson. 
Do.. 



Specialist. 



Port sailed 
from. 



Siboney 



Santiago. 

do ... 

do... 

do ... 



.do. 



.do... 
.do... 



Ponce 

Santiago . . 
do.... 



.do 
.do 



.do... 



do 

Ponce 



do .... 

Santiago . . 



.do ... 
.do ... 



-do .... 
.do.... 



Playa del 

Este. 
Santiago . . 



do .... 
.do.... 



.do... 
.do ... 
.do... 



-do .... 
.do . . . . 

.do .... 
.do .... 
.do.... 



Playa del 

Este. 
Santiago . . 



.do... 



Date of 
sailing. 



1898. 
July 12 



Aug. 13 
July 28 
Aug. 19 
Sept. 22 

Aug. 28 

Sept. 14 
July 22 



Sept. 8 

July 23 
Aug. 17 



July 28 
July 22 

Aug. 13 

July 28 
July 22 
Sept. 8 



Aug. 2 
July 31 

Aug. 13 
Aug. 8 



...do.... 
Aug. 14 

July 21 

Aug. 19 

July 20 
Aug. 25 

July 28 

Aug. 24 

Aug. 15 

Aug. 14 
Aug. 7 

Aug. 17 
Aug. 2 
July 30 

July 21 

Aug. 19 

Aug. 25 



Destination. 



Fort Monroe. . 



Montauk Point 

Tami)a 

Montauk Point 
New York 

Montauk Point 

New York 

Eort Monroe.. - 

New York 



Fort IVlonroe 

Montauk Point 



Tampa 

Fort Monroe... 

jMontauk Point 

Tampa 

Fort Monroe... 
New York 



.do 
.do 



Montauk Point. 
do 



.do 
.do 



Tampa 

Montauk Point 



New York , 

Montauk Point 



Tampa 

Montauk Point 

Fort Monroe 

Montauk Point. 

Boston 

Montauk Point 
do 



do 

New York. 
Tampa 



Fort Monroe 

Montauk Point 



.do 



Date of 
arrival. 



1898. 
July 18 

Aug. 18 
Aug. 1 
Aug. 2G 
Sept. 26 

Sept. 1 

Sept. 22 
July 28 

Sept. 15 



July 27 
Aug. 22 



Aug. 
July 



Aug. 3 
July 27 
Sept. 10 



Aug. 10 
Aug. 5 

Aug. 18 
Aug. 14 



...do.... 

Aug. 20 

July 27 

Aug. 26 

July 25 
Sept. 1 

Aug. G 

Aug. 31 

Aug. 19 

Aug. 23 
Aug. 21 
Aug. 14 

Aug. 26 
Aug. 7 
Aug. 6 

July 25 

Aug. 26 

Aug. 30 



Troops on board. 



Number 
of sick 
and conva- 
lescents. 



4th Infantry. 



Half 7th Infantry. 
7 otiicers; 46 dis- 
charged men. 



4 batteries and 1 
company of the 
Provisional Eugi- 
near Battalion. 



troop.s 9th Cav- 
alry, 3 companies 
12th Infantry, 2 
companies 34th 
Michigan. 



9th and 10th Cav- 
alry. 



3 companies 2d Wis- 

consin; Company 
A, 1st 1 1 lin ois; 
Company H, Dis- 
trictof Columbia; 
Battery C, Penn- 
sylvania Volun- 
teer Artillery. 

Came up in ballast. 

No report of what 
was carried. 

25th Infantry. 

1st Cavalry aiid Bat- 
tery H, '4th Artil- 
lery. 

13th Infantry. 

2 battalions 12th In- 
fantry. 

lat Infantry, except 
Company F. 

11 companies 1st 
Illinois. 

Part of 9th Massa- 
chusetts. 

lYth infantry 

Troops of 3d and 6th 
Cavalry. 

10 officers, 32 men. 

1st and 2d battalions 
of Ist District of 
Columbia. 

4 batteries of artil- 
lery. 



Sick and 
wound- 
ed. 



Convales- 
cent. 

Sick and 
wound- 
ed. 



Sick and 
wound- 
ed. 



105 
Sick and 
wounded. 



Sick. 



80 



Convales- 
cent. 



Convales- 
cent. 



203 
41 



410 



Convales- 
cent. 
Sick and 
wounded. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



145 



Name of vessel. 



Unionist. 
Arkadia . 



Clinton . 
AVantkri 



La Grande Du- 
cliesse. 



Relief a 

Do 

Do 

Do 

Do 

Missouri a 

Do 

Do 

Yalo 

Harvard. .. 
St. Paul.... 



Panama 

Do 

Port Victor. 



Mohawk. 
Mobile... 



Manitoba . 
Do.... 



Miuuewaska 



Do 

Mississippi . 



Do 

Koumaniaii 



Obdam 
Do. 



Do 

Berlin 

Do 

Michigan . . 

Do 



Rita . 



Chester 

Do 

Moutero ... 
Mexico .... 



Lampasas 



Port sailed 
from. 



Santiago. 
do... 



.do 
-do. 



Porto Kico 
Santiago.. 

Ponce 

do.... 

do.... 

Santiago.. 

Poneo 

Arroyo . . . 
Santiago.. 

do.... 

do.... 



Ponce . . . 

do... 

FortMon 

roe. 
Santiago. 
do... 



Ponce . . . 
do ... 



Santiago. 



Ponce 

do ... 



San Juau 
Santiago. 

Ponre 

do... 



Santiago. 
....do .. 
do... 



.<!0 .. 

.do .. 



Ponce 



do ... 

San Juan 
Santiago. 
do ... 



Ponce .. 



Date of 

sailing. 



1898. 
Aug. 26 

Aug. 17 



Aug. 20 



July 'Si 
Aug. 2 



Aug. 13 
Sept. 1 
Oct. 3 
Oct. 22 
Kov. 22 
Sept. 4 
Sept. 20 
Oct. 23 
Aug. 19 
Aug. 22 
Aug. 11 



Sept. 4 
Sept. 30 
Sept. 11 

Aug. 18 
Aug. 12 

Sept. 7 
Oct. 21 

Aug. 25 



Oct. 11 
Sc])t. 3 



Destination. 



Date of 
arrival. 



Montauk Point 
do 



Tampa. 
do . 



Montauk Point 



New York 

Pliiladeliihia 

Fort Monroe 

Pliihulrl|iliia 

Fort M()?]roc 

Montauk Point . 

Fort ]\Ionroe 

New York 

Montauk Point . 

do , 

do 



Fort Monroe 

.....do 

New York 



Montauk Point 
do 



New York. 
do 



Julv 29 
Auk. 8 



Aug. 19 
Sept. 5 
Oct. 8 
Oct. 25 
Nov. 20 
Sept. 10 
Oct. 5 
Oct. 31 
Aug. 23 
Aug. 25 
Aug. 15 



Sept. 10 
Oct. 5 
Sept. 17 

Aug. 24 
Aug. 19 

Sept. 13 
Oct. 2C 



Oct. 17 
Sept. 10 



Oct. 27 
Sept. 4 

Aug. 5 
Sept. 7 

Oct. 11 
Aug. 30 
Oct. 10 
Sept. 18 
Oct. 19 

Aug. 3 

Sept. 6 
Nov. 3 
Oct. 21 
Sept. I 



July 31 Newport News .' Aug. 4 



Montauk Point 



New York. 
do 



1898. 
Sept. 1 

Aug. 23 



Sept. 



Trooifs on board. 



Oct. 22 I Boiston 

Aug. 28 Montauk I'oint . 

July 31 Newport News 
Sept. 1 : New York 



Oct. 6 do 

Aug. 25 Montauk Point 

Oct. 5 I New York 

Sept. 11 do 

Oct. 13 do 



July 27 Tampa. 



Sept. 1 New York 

Oct. 29 do 

Oct. 12 Montauk Point 

Aug. 25 do 



1 comijany 1st Illi- 
nois. 

Battery E 1st and 
Battery F 2d Ar- 
tillery. 

1 battalion 24th In- 
fantiy, dotach- 
mcnt'lst Illinois. 



No report of what 
was on board. 

17th Infantry, 2 bat- 
talions 71st New 
York. 



3d and 20th Infantry 
Half of 33d Michigan 
2d Infantry and 4 

companies 71st 

New York. 



8th Ohio 

2d and 8th Infantry, 
2d Massachusetts. 

6th Illinois 

2 battalions 3d Wis- 
consin. 

2 companies 33d 
Michigan, 2 com- 
panies 1st District 
of Columbia, part 
2d (Javalrj'. 

16th Pennsylvania.. 

Troops A aiul C Ne w 
Y o I'k Cavalry, 
Sheridan and Gov- 
ernor's T r o o p 
Pennsylvania Cav- 
-Tlry. 

6th Massachusetts.. 

2 companies 9th 
Massachusetts. 



9 companies 2d AVis- 
consiu. 



1st Illinois 

Mail service 

Mi.scellaneous cargo 

General Lawton and 
stragglers. 

No report of what 
was carried. 

4th Pennsylvania. . . 

4th Ohio 

2l8t Infantry 

Troop M, 10th Cav- 
alry. 



Number 
of sick 
and conva- 
lescents. 



Sick. 



Sick. 



240 
262 



255 

175 



191 
252 



Sick and 
wounded. 



a Hospital ship. 



In addition to the foregoing, vSliown l)y the records of the Quarter- 
master-Geueral, Brig. Geii. C. F. Humphrey, Uuited States Volunteers, 
7833— VOL. 1 10 



146 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



chief quartermaster of General Shafter's expedition, under date ot 
September 15, 1898, reports the following vessels as having left Cuba 
between June 30 and July 12, 1898 : 



Name of vessel. 



Breakwater 

Cherakee 

City of AVashington. 
D.H.Miller 



Gussie . . . 
Iroquois . 
Morffan . . 



Olivette .. 
Stilhvater 
Whitney - 



Date of 
depar- 
ture. 



July 9 
July 5 
July 8 
June 30 



....do ... 
July 2 
July 3 

July 10 
July 3 
June 30 



Troops or civilians returning. 



Wounded 

Sick and wounded 

do 

Civilian employees, sick and dis- 
charaed soldiers. 

do" 

Sick and wounded - - 

Civilian employees, sick and dis- 
charged soldiers. 

Sick and wounded 

do 

Civilian employees, sick and dis- 
charged soldiers. 



Destination. 



Fort Monroe. 
Key West. 
Port Tampa. 
Do. 

Do. 

Key West. 
Port Tampa. 

Fort Monroe. 

Port Tampa. 

Do. 



LAND TRANSPORTATION OF THE COMMAND DURING TIIP^ SANTIAGO CAMPAIGN. 

Owing to the lack of necessary transports, the means of land trans- 
portation during the Santiago campaign was painfully deficient. 

The testimony shows that the entire number of animals, wagons, and 
ambulances shipped with the expedition from Tampa and Mobile was 
as follows: 

Government liorses 57S 

Private horses «^81 

Pack and draft mules !> 336 

Wagons from Tampa 114 

Ambulances from Tampa and Mobile 7 

Wagons from Mobile 84 

General Shafter testifies that he could carry no more on his transports 
from Tampa 5 that he realized that he would have very few ambulances, 
but that wagons could be used for transportation both of the wounded 
and of supplies, while ambulances could be employed only for one pur- 
pose. General Humphrey testifies that no more land transportation 
was taken simply because the vessels were fully loaded. Lieut. J. M. 
Kennedy, assistant surgeon, appeared at the front near Santiago July 2 
with ten ambulances, which had been brought over on tlie Louisiana. 

There were eight pack trains, consisting in all of 580 mules, and the 
value of their services in carrying provisions and ammunition to the 
front was simply inestimable. 

The testimony shows that the transports arrived off the south coast 
of Cuba near Santiago on June 21 ; that the pack trains were landed 
on June 22; that the first wagons were landed on June 25, and that the 
landing of the latter was continued more rapidly than they could be 
set up on shore, and that in fact some of those that were landed were 
never set uji at all. 

General Chaffee testifies that on July 1, at the battle of El Caney, 
ten days after the arrival of the fleet, there were no ambulances or 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 147 

wagons available, and that the roads were so horrible that they could 
not reach the front. lie adds that only litters could have been used for 
the wounded, but even these were not on hand, as owing to oversight 
none had been landed. 

It is plainly evident that this army of 17,000 men disembarked in the 
face of an enemy in a hostile country, and, rapidly thrown forward 
against a well-armed force, was painfully deficient in land transpor- 
tation, but in spite of the absence of this almost absolutely necessary 
portion of the equipment of a well-trained command, it drove the enemy 
before it, captured their outposts, j)ushed them behind their main de- 
fenses, drove their tleet from Santiago JJay to absolute destruction as 
it faced the Navy of our country, and finally, after most gallant fight- 
ing under a tropical sun, amidst most adverse conditions, captured a 
strongly fortified city, and received as prisoners of war over 23,000 
Spanish soldiers. 

In addition to its military operations, it performed a work which 
neither its commander nor others ever imagined would devolve upon 
it — that of feeding, at least to a limited degree, the vast host of men, 
women, and children who fled from Santiago on account of the fear of 
its bombardment, and, passing thiough our lines, sought refuge in El 
Caney; for days nearly as many rations were issued to these refugees 
as to the army itself, thus taxing the land transportation to its utmost 
limit. 

The conclusions drawn from the foregoing are as follows: 

1. The Quartermaster's Department, a month before war was declared, 
was neither physically nor financially prepared for the tremendous 
labor of suddenly equipping and transporting an army over ten times 
the size of the Regular Army of the United States. 

L*. That the department devoted the ability, zeal, and industry of 
its ofticers to accomplish the herculean task before it so soon as funds 
were made available and war was declared. 

3. That it deserves credit for the great work accomplished, for thf. 
immense quantity of materials obtained and issued within so short a 
period, and for its earnest efforts in reference to railroad transporta- 
tion and in protecting the great interests of the General Government 
committed to its charge. Its officers, especially those at the head(iuar- 
ters of the department and at its depots, Avorked earnestly and labori- 
ously day and night, sparing themselves in no possible way. 

4. There ai)i)ears to have been a lack of system, whereby, even as late 
as October, troops in camps and in the field were lacking in some arti- 
cles of clothing, camp and garrison equipage; and hospitals, at least at 
two important localities in the South — Fort Monroe, Va., and Hunts- 
ville, Ala. — lacked stoves, while at Iluntsville fuel was wanting. 

5. There appears to have been lack of executive or administrative 
ability, either on the part of the Quartermaster's Department or the 
railroad officials, in preventing the great congestiou of cars at Tampa 



148 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

aud Cbickamauga wheu these camps were first establislied, which cou- 
gestiou caused delay, annoyance, and discomfort to the kirge bodies of 
troops concentrating at those places. 

6. There appears to have been a lack of foresight in preparing and 
jiromptly having available at some central locality on the seacoast the 
necessary ileet of transports which it seemed evident would be required 
for the movement of troops to a foreign shore, and, finally, when the 
call came suddenly and the emergency was supreme, the department 
appears not to have fully comprehended the capacity of the fleet under 
its command; not to have supplied it with a comi)lete outfit of light- 
ers for the immediate diseuii)arkation of troops aud sui)plies; to have 
accepted without full investigation the statement that the vessels 
were capable of transporting 25,000 men, while really they could not 
and did not transport more than 17,000 with their artillery, equipments, 
ammunition, aud supplies, and lacked sufficient storage room for the 
necessary amount of wagon transportation — that very important ele- 
ment in the movement of an army in the face of an enemy. 

7. The Quartermaster's Department should maintain on hand at all 
times a complete supply for at least four months for an army of 100,000 
men of all articles of clothing, camp and garrison equipage, and other 
quartermaster's supplies which will not deteriorate by storage or which 
can not at once be obtained in open market. 

Finally. In the opinion of this commission, there should be a division 
of the labor now devolving upon the Quartermaster's Department. 

Whether there should be one great department of supply, covering 
the Quartermaster's Department except transportation, the Subsistence 
Department, and the Pay Department, and another covering the 
important problemof transportation, including the movement of armies 
by land and by sea and the supply of animals, wagons, ambulances, 
and harness, is a subject for the serious consideration of a board of 
oflicers whose experience in peace and war, at home and in an enemy's 
country, would render them most competent to make an exhaustive 
investigation and to present a complete report upon this important 
subject. 

SUBSISTENCE DEPARTMENT. 

BRIG. GEN. CHARLES P. EAGAN, COMMISSARY-GENERAL U. S. A., IN 

CHARGE. 

The Subsistence Department is charged with the purchasing, issu- 
ing, and preservation ot subsistence supplies; also, with the distribu- 
tion, selling, and accountability therefor. During the past thirty-five 
years the number of officers of the Subsistence Department has been 
so reduced that when war with Spain was declared it had only 22 
officers, viz, the Commissary-General, 2 colonels, 3 lieutenant-colonels, 
8 majors, and 8 captains. This number was barely suflflcient to per- 
form subsistence duties for the Army of about 26,000 officers and 
enlisted men. The number was not large enough to allow ojQficers of 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 149 

the department to servo witli trooi)s in the field. Soon after the first 
call 5 officers of the Subsistence Department were appointed commis- 
saries of volunteers, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel. Four of 
these were assigned as chief commissaries of corps. The remaining 
officers of the department were engaged in purchasing supplies and in 
caring for various State camps at which the volunteers were first con- 
centrated for muster. 

The subsistence officers with the troops in the field were, with the 
exception of the 4 above noted, either volunteers or line officers detailed 
for subsistence duties, many of whom, however zealous, lacked the 
knowledge which only exi^erience can give. 

GENERAL ADMINISTRATION. 

Prior to the war with Spain each geographical department had a 
chief commissary. To him the post commissaries submitted requisi- 
tions for needed subsistence supplies; in turn he requested purchasing 
commissaries stationed in the large centers of trade to have shipped 
the articles called for. It was the duty of the jjurchasing commissaries 
to examine, test, and inspect the supplies and to determine whether or 
not they were pure and up to the required standard. Owing to the 
small number of officers, i^urchasing commissaries were given, in some 
cases, more than one geographical department to supply. 

During the war, instead of supplying 20,000 men, they supplied 
approximately 275,000. As soon as the volunteers were concentrated 
in the large camps, most of the chief commissaries were assigned to 
depot and other duty 

The depots were under the immediate control of the Commissary- 
General, and from them there was a report of rations on hand. The 
greatest latitude was given commissaries with troops to enable them to 
avoid difficulties that arose from unforeseen conditions, Suj)plies were 
available, and it was the duty of the commissaries to see that they 
were issued, although they had no control over them from the time 
they were shipped from the depots until delivered to the troops. 

THE RATION. 

The ration is fixed by law. Additions have been made to it from time 
to time, so that at the beginning of the war with Spain it was liberal 
and capable of giving great variety. Its proportions were such that the 
proper percentages of j)roteids and carbohydrates could be obtained, 
giving the variety in diet necessary to a well-balanced ration. 

We give below tables showing the several rations issued by the Sub- 
sistence Department. 



150 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Tablk I. — The " (jarrison" ration, with the usual proportions of fresh and salt meats 

and vegetables. 



1,000 compleUi ration.s. 



Ap]>roxi- 

iiiato grosH 

weight. 




Meat: 

Pork, one tenth 

Bacou, two-tenths 

Fresh beef, aeven-tenths, 875 pounds, or fresh beef, 750 jiounds, and 

canned salmou, 100 pounds 

Flour 

Vegetables : 

Dry beans or pease 

Or rice or hominy 

Fresh potatoes, 800 pounds, onions, 200 pounds, or potatoes, 700 pounds, 

canned tomatoes, 300 pounds 

CofTee, green 

Sugar 

Vinegar 

Candles 

So.ip 

Salt 

Pepper, black 

1, 000 rations 

1 ration 



P0U7ldf!. 

125 

177 

885 
1,507 



Tablk II.— T^ie "field" ration. 



1,000 complete r.ations. 




Approxi- 
mate gross 
weight. 



Bacon 

Hard bread . 
Beans . 



Potatoes, onions, and canned tomatoes, when possible. 
Cotl'ee, roasted 

Sugar. 



Vinegar 

Candles 

Soap 

Salt 

Pepper, black . 



1,000 rations . 
1 ration , 



Pounds. 

883 

1, 125 

162 

1,158 

02 

161 

07 

17 

44 

44 

3 



3,786 
3.79 



When flonr is issued instead of hard bread, 40 pounds of baking powder or dry yeast. 
Tablk III. — The "travel" ration used on journeys hy railroads, stages, or steamboats. 



1,000 complete rations. 




Hard bread 

Beef, canned 

Beans, baked, 3-lb. cans . 

Coffee, roasted 

Sugar 



(For first four days.) 



1,000 rations. 
1 ration 



Tomatoes (gallon cans) 



1,000 rations. 
1 ration 



(After fourth day add) 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



If)! 



Taulk IV.— The "iravel" ration for journeys when liquid coffee is furnished. 



1,000 complete rations. 



Net 
weight. 



Approxi- 
mate, gross 
weight. 



JTard broad 

J'l'cf, canned 

Jieaiis, liakod, li-lb. caus 

1,000 rations 

1 ration 



Pounds. 

1,000 

750 

450 



2,200 
2.2 



Pound*. 
1,125 
875 
520 



2,520 
2.52 



Twouty-ono cents per ration are allowed for pnrch.aso of liquid coffee. 

TAitr.K V. — The "emerf/enci/" ration, as authorized bij General Orders, No. 49, Head- 
quarters of the Army, J. G. O., series of 1896. 



1,000 complete rations. 



Net 
weight. 



Approxi- 
mate grosa 
wcignt. 



Hard I)road. 
I'aeon 



I'ca meal 

Cotlee, roasted and ground 

Saccharin 

Salt 

rei>l(er, black 

Ti)liaeeo, plug 

Bags, wrappers, etc 



Pou7ids. 

1,000 

G25 

250 

125 

.58 
40 
2.5 
31.25 



Pound*. 

1,000 

625 

250 

125 



.58 
40 
2.5 
31.25 
100 



1,000 rations . 
1 ration 



2, 074. 33 
2.07 



2, 174. 33 
2.17 



Our investigation showed that rations as above indicated were issued, 
and always on hand in abundance. The department exercised great 
vigilance in the inspection of all articles, and obtained, as far as we can 
ascertain, the best quality for the price paid. 

In addition to the regular ration, the Subsistence Department had 
for sale to officers and enlisted men many articles in the nature of 
personal convenience and food delicacies. The troops not using all 
the ration had what is known as "company savings." These the 
department purchased, or they could be disposed of anywhere, money 
thus obtained being added to the company fund. From this fund, which 
is administered by the company commander under regulations of the 
War Department, purchases for tlie exclusive benefit of the enlisted 
men are made, thus giving a greater variety to the ration. From 
reports received from officers serving in the tropics, it is thought that 
the ration would be improved by adding more sugar and rice and 
some dried fruits. With these additions it is believed that it in all 
respects will be suitable for any climate. The cost of the garrison 
ration, based on New York prices, during the winter preceding the 
breaking out of the Spanish war, was 13.G8 cents, and the cost toward 
.the end of the war was 15.17 cents. 

There were sent to Cuba when the Fifth Corps sailed, on June 14, 
approximately 2,000,000 rations, being about four months' supplies for 
16,000 men. When reeuforcemeuts were sent on June 22 about 500,000 



152 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

additional rations were shipped, seventy-five days' supplies for 6,400 
men, and in addition, a large supply of sales articles, all from Tami^a. 
During- June and July large quantities of the various components of 
the ration, as also sales articles, were shipped from New York and 
Chicago. 

A cargo of refrigerated beef was sent to Santiago and arrived on 
July 21, 1898, the day after the port was opened. 

Approximately 2,000,000 rations (together with refrigerated beef) 
were sent to Porto Eico, being about four months' supplies for 10,000 
troops. 

The Hawaiian and Philippine islands were kept fully supi^lied. In 
the Hawaiian Islands beef was imrchased from the native butchers. 
This, judging from reports, was not as satisfactory as the American 
refrigerated beef which the various transports carried. The troops in 
the Philipj)ines were furnished frozen beef from Australia. The Navy 
had a refrigerator ship laden with it, and an arrangement was made 
whereby the troops were to purchase from the Navy until its supply 
was exhausted, at which time the Subsistence Department expected 
a cargo of frozen beef to be in Manila and the Navy was then to obtain 
supply therefrom. 

The Commission has carefully investigated the subject of the condi- 
tion, quality, and quantity of the food supplied to the Army. Almost 
without exception it has been shown by the testimony taken that 
wherever the troops were ordered, whether to the various cami)s in the 
United States, or in Porto Eico, Cuba, and Manila, the rations prescribed 
by law were on the transports and at the camps with the soldiers. 

So far as we have been able to ascertain there was but one occasion, 
that of a. day, in front of Santiago, when the troops were seriously 
short of rations; these had been supplied but thrown aside when the 
men went into action; the condition of roads and lack of transporta- 
tion prevented prompt reissue. At times the vegetable ration was not 
of good quality, the potatoes and onions being spoiled. Condemned by 
a board of survey such vegetables were destroyed and an equivalent 
part of the ration issued. Some trouble occurred because such vegeta- 
bles and other damaged food were disposed of by the company without 
the warrant of a board of survey. This was done through ignorance, 
their officers not knowing what was necessary to be done. 

All the inspectors of the Army, who were examined touching the quan- 
tity and quality of food, testified that it was not only abundant but of 
unusually good quality, one of them stating that "the troops at Chicka- 
mauga were constantly kept supplied with vegetables, fresh bread, and 
fresh meat. Each company and each command was supplied with ample 
cooking arrangements, the Buzzacott stove being used. There was no 
lack of fuel for cooking, and if deficiency or irregularity obtained in 
properly rationing or feeding the soldiers it was due to the ignorance 
and inefficiency of company and regimental officers." This language 
was also embodied in the annual report made by the Inspector-General 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 153 

to the General of the Army, bearing date of November 1, 1S98. The 
inspection reports quoted in this annual report state in substance the 
same thing about the meat andother food furnished, and the Inspector- 
General, on page 17, says: "The Commissary Department has conducted 
its business, so far as I have been able to observe, in a most satisfactory 
manner in this war;" and, on page 5G, "The quality of the food fur- 
nished is generally reported excellent and there has been no complaint 
as to the quantity." 

The Commission investigated personally the quality of the food 
issued at Jacksonville, Anniston, Huntsville, Knoxville, Lexington, 
and Camp Meade, interrogating large numbers of soldiers, and hear- 
ing few complaints as to the quality or quantity of rations issued. 
Some complaint was made about the manner of preparing the rations, 
but no one testified that the rations prescribed by law were not issued 
regularly, and if any j^art thereof was spoiled they stated that the 
same was supplied on application to the subsistence department, pro- 
vided proper condemnation of the decayed food was made, as pre- 
scribed by law. Officers and enlisted men testified that when camps 
were moved the proper ration was issued. 

RECOMMENDATIONS. 

At each State camp of instruction an officer of the Subsistence 
Department should be detailed for the purpose of instructing officers 
and men in the method of making requisitions, the use of the ration, 
and the care of subsistence supx)lies. Instead of a caterer furnishing 
meals, the men should do their own cooking, using the regular ration 
and such articles as are for sale by the commissary. Each regiment 
should have an officer to act as regimental commissary, and also a 
regimental commissary-sergeant. 

All cooking and eating utensils should be furnished by the Subsist- 
ence Department. Under the present system utensils are furnished 
by each of three departments, thereby producing confusion. So 
important to the welfare of a company is a good cook that it is of the 
utmost importance that some method be devised whereby he may be 
obtained. Probably the best method would be to increase the pay to 
$25 a month and establish cooking schools, where on enlistment men 
could be sent and taught the best methods of army cooking. Company 
cooks should in turn instruct each member of the comimny. The army 
cookbook contains in detail description of the methods of garrison and 
field cooking. It was liberally distributed, but the troops did not, as a 
rule, avail themselves of the information to be found in it. 

REFRIGERATED BEEF. 

This commission was organized the 24th day of September last. Up 
to the 21st day of December its members had taken testimony in 
vseventeen different towns and cities and nine camps. It had also 
received many hundred letters, communications, and newspaper clip- 



154 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

pings from persons living in all parts of tbe country. Examination of 
numerous ofiQcers and enlisted men Lad been made as to the quality 
and condition of the meat issued to the* troops. The testimonj^, with 
some exceptions, showed that the refrigerated beef issued was pure, 
sound, and wholesome. 

The question now is not whether, under all circumstances and con- 
ditions, this beef can be kept sound. It is liable to decay if kept too 
long or exposed for a time to tlie effects of heat and moisture. The 
question is whether chemically treated meat has been issued to the 
soldier. 

The subject of such meat seems to have been iirst called to the atten- 
tion of officers of tlie Army by Mr. Alex B. Powell, in a letter dated 
May 25, 1898, copies of which were sent to General Miles, General 
Eagau, and Hon. Amos Cummings, in which he incloses the following 
statement: 

In conversation with Mr. H. O. Armour, of the Kansas City Packing Company, ho 
tells me the Govornment anticipates shipping fresh beef, pork, mutton, etc., to 
Cuba. As I have had long experience in shipping meats to Florida at all times of 
the year by ray process, I beg to suggest that in the climate of Cuba meats exposed 
after being taken from the ice boxes will only stand up a very short time. I have a 
process which I have been using for several years shiiiping meats to Florida. It so 
purifies the meats that they will stand any climate for from four to ten days after 
leaving the ice house. 

I shipped all the meats used at the Ponce de Leon and the Alcazar, of St. Augus- 
tine, Fla., from the time they opened up to 1894, under the management of Mr. O. D. 
Seavey, at present manager of the Hotel Champlain, Clinton County, N. Y., who 
knows all about my process, if you will kindly inquire of him the results. I also 
shipped all the meats used by the Tampa Bay Hotel during the management of J. H. 
King; also the St. James Hotel, Jacksonville, Fla., and many others up to the time 
the Chicago people commenced to ship refrigerator cars to their agency there. In 
fact, I shipped one-half the meat that went into Florida via the Clyde Steamship 
Line previous to their having broad-gauge railroads running into the State. Of this 
the agents of the Clyde Line will bear me evidence. 

My mode of shipping was in common barrels, with a simple bag covering. In many 
cases it was ten days on the trip, and I never lost 100 pounds by spoiling. I also will 
refer you to Count De Barry, agent for Mumm's Champagne, New York, who has a 
residence in central Florida, who has for the j)ast ten years ui> to the present time 
used no meats that did not come from me by my process. 

My proposition to the Government would be to process all their fresh meats in the 
cars at Tampa, or any other place where the cars could reach. I can process 10 car- 
loads, or 100,000 pounds, in four hours, at my own expense, and put the meats in a 
condition to be hung up in any part of the ship, which will keep in perfect condition 
for from four to ten days. I simply so purii'y the germs of the meats that they will 
stand the destroying elements of any climate. My price for doing it would be one- 
half cent per pound. Kindly send this to the proper party and have them investi- 
gate. I shall be pleased to go to Washington to confer with any party you suggest. 

May 27 this communication was referred by the Major-General com- 
manding the Army to the Commissary-General of Subsistence. The 
copy of Mr. Powell's letter sent had evidently been previously referred 
to General Eagan, for on the 2Cth of May he wrote him as follows: 

Your letter of the 20th instant to the President of the United States upon the 
subject of preservation and shipment of I'resh beef, pork, mutton, etc., to Cuba has 



REPORT OP THE COMMISSION. 155 

been referred to this office. In reply Lave to say that the subject of furuisbinfj 
fresh beef in Cuba is now being considered. This dejiartment is not engaging any 
one witli methods to cure meats. If it purchases meat it will be from someone who 
Avill furnish meat and guarantee its good condition on arrival and for seventy-two 
hours thereafter, or who will slaughter and deliver as required, wherever the troops 
may be. 

This correspondence shows doubtless how the idea that processed or 
treated meats were being used in the Army originated, and also that 
the Commissarj^-General of Subsistence did not entertain the propo- 
sition of Mr. Powell. 

On the 21st day of December last Maj. Gen. Nelson A. Miles, upon 
tlie written request of ,the president of this commission, appeared 
before it. lie refused to be sworn, as all other witnesses had been 
except one, who affirmed, stating that he would make his statements 
without being sworn, and was responsible for what he said. He pro- 
ceeded, and for the first time in the history of this investigation the 
allegation was made that refrigerated beef issued to the troops had 
been chemically treated. 

In the statement, revised by himself, General Miles said : 

There was sent to Porto Rico 337 tons of what is known as so-called refrigerated 
beef, which you might call embalmed beef. * * » 

He proceeded to read a communication from Dr. W. H. Daly, major 
and chief surgeon. United States Volunteers, on his staff, bearing date 
of September 21, 1898, wherein Dr. Daly stated that — 

In the several inspections I made in the A'arious camps and troopships at Tampa, 
Jacksonville, Chickamauga, and Porto Rico I found the fresh beef to be apparently 
preserved with secret chemicals which destroy its natural flavor, and which I also 
believe to be detrimental to the health of the troops. 

The entire report is as follows : 

Washington, D. C, September 21, 1898. 
The Assistant Ad.jutant- General, 

Headquarters of the Army, Washington, D. C: 

Sir: I have the honor to report, in the interest of the service, that in the several 
inspections I made in the various camps and troopships at Tampa, Jacksonville, 
Chickamauga, and Porto Rico, that I found the fresh beef to be apparently preserved 
with secret chemicals, which destroys its natural flavor, and which I also believe to 
be detrimental to the health of the troops. 

While on duty at head(iuarter3 of the army at Tampa at the time of the embarka- 
tion of the " Shafter expedition," Colonel Weston, the efficient chief commissary, 
showed me a quarter of bei;f that had already, as a test, been sixty hours in the 
sun without being perceptibly tainted, so far as the sense of smell could detect. 

It is impossible to keep fresh beef so long untainted in the sun in that climate 
without the use of deleterious preservatives, such as boric acid, s.alioylic acid, or 
nitrate potash, injected into it in quantities liable to be hurtful to the health of 
the consumer. 

At Ponce, Porto Rico, much of the beef I examined arriving on the transports 
from the United States was also of the same character, being apparently preserved 
by injecting chemicals to aid deficient cold storage. 

"Where efficient cold storage is impossible transporting beef alive is the 
method that should receive the fullest consideration by the Government as being 



156 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

safest for the health of tlie cousumer. When detailed to take charge of the trans- 
port Panama, for conveying convalescents to the United States, I obtained 2,000 
pounds of fresh beef from the commissary at Ponce. It looked vrell, but had an 
odor similar to that of a dead human body after being injected with preservatives, 
and it tasted when first cooked like decomposed boric acid, while after standing a 
day for further inspectiou it became so bitter, nauseous, and unpalatable as to be 
quite impossible for use. I was therefore obliged, owing to its condition, and the 
just complaints of the sick about it, and the disgustingly sickening odor it emitted 
when being cooked, aud its mawkish, fiat taste when served, and the safety of my 
patients — 255 convalescent soldiers on board — to organize a hoard of survey, con- 
demn and throw 1,500 pounds, all we had, overboard; consequently the convales- 
cents were entirely without much-needed fresh beef, making the duty of bringing 
the men to the United States in an improved condition a very difficult matter. 

In my insi^ection of the Fourth United States Volunteer Infantry at Jacksonville 
recently I observed the same odor and taste upon the fresh beef, but not so marked, 
andatcamp'of Sixth United States Volunteer Infantry at Chickamauga I also, at 
severally inspections, observed it markedly. I there inspected a lot of beef just 
issued to that regiment, aud, while it looked well, was of a sickening odor, like a 
human body dead of disease and injected with preservatives, and when cooked was 
quite unpalatable, consequently likely to prove an efficient cause of ill health. The 
men complained of its insipid and mawkish flavor that high seasoning could not 
conceal. 

Believing that the Commissary Department has been imposed upon by the misdi- 
rected commercial spirit of persons furnishing beef, I respectfully recommend that 
the matter be investigated by experts making a quantitative aud qualitative chemical 
analysis of the several preservatives suspected to be used by getting samples of beef 
furnished for export to Cuba and Porto Rico. 

If the question arises that a report should have been made by me earlier, I beg to 
say that I have endeavored, with all my opportimities, to first inform myself, by 
observation, of the conditions above noted sufficiently to warrant my drawing the 
attention of the Adjutant-General at Headquarters of the Army to the matter. 
Very respectfully, 

W. H. Daly, 
Major and Chief Surgeon, U. S. Volunteers. 

General Miles further said : 

I do not think that beef such as was sent to Cuba or Porto Rico would be good 
in any country in the stomach of any man. 

If I was furnished for any expedition in this country, or any other, with such 
stuff, I would prohibit the men from taking it. 

****** * 

I do not know what may have been injected into it. 

*****## 
The understanding is that this is a secret process of preserving beef. 

This last was in answer to a question whether Dr. Daly made a chem- 
ical analysis of refrigerated beef. He further said: "It may be that 
they are still sending the stuff down there," meaning Porto Rico. From 
these quotations it is apparent that General Miles distinctly and 
unqualifiedly stated that the refrigerated beef furnished to the troops 
had been chemically treated, or was " embalmed beef." 

Of the witnesses examined by this commission, General Miles and 
Dr. Daly are the only ones who make this charge. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 157 

General Miles did not state that he personally inspected any refriger- 
ated meat, lie did not refer ns to any witness Avho wonld testify that 
the beef issued to the troops was embalmed beef, unless his reading of 
the report made by Dr. Daly to him, the true date of Avhich Dr. Daly 
stated should have been October 21, 1898, may be considered such a 
reference. 

xVlthough Dr. Daly swears that he informed General Miles about the 
1st of August, 1898, that he suspected that the refrigerated beef was 
chemically treated, it does not appear that the General informed you 
or the War Department that an officer of his staff had made this dis- 
covery, nor does it appear that lie at the time ordered any of the 
officers under his command to probe to the bottom an allegation which, 
if true, concerned the health of 275,000 soldiers of the United States. 
It appears from the report of Dr. Daly, which he handed to General 
Miles October 21 last, that he then specifically stated that the refriger- 
ated beef furnished to the troops was "apparently" chemically treated. 
It does not appear that when this charge was made, October 21, it 
having been already made to him in August, 1898, that General Miles 
communicated to you, or the Secretary of War, or to the Commissary- 
General, the belief or suspicion entertained by him that refrigerated 
meat, dangerous to health, was issued every day to the troops, in fail- 
ure to do which there was dereliction of duty. It is true that on 
September 20 he had directed that an order should be issued asking 
for reports relative to meats issued, but the order specifically mentions 
"canned fresh roast beef" and nothing else, and it was the reports 
received in answer to this that were presented in abstract by the 
General at the time of his appearance before the commission and since. 

In his report Dr. Daly does not make the all-important statement 
tliat he iiad already chemically analyzed any meat, although he sug- 
gests that such analysis should be made. He does state that in the 
several inspections made by him at Tampa, Jacksonville, Chickamauga, 
and Porto Rico he " found the fresh beef to be apparently preserved 
with secret chemicals." He says that at Ponce the beef he examined 
"was also of the same character, being apparently preserved by injected 
chemicals." 

For months, as it appears. Dr. Daly concealed the knowledge of the 
commission of a crime affecting men under his charge, whom, as an 
officer and a physician, he was bound to protect. 

On the 20th day of January he appeared as a witness. He was 
duly sworn, and testified that he commanded the steam transport 
Panama on her voyage from Ponce, Porto Rico, to Fort IMonroe, Va. 
She sailed about September 4 last with 150 convalescent soldiers on 
board. The day previous she received about 1,500 pounds of refriger- 
ated beef. There was no refrigerator aboard, but there was a quantity 
of ice, and the beef was put on it. Tlie meat did not keep. It was 
used until September 7, and on that day, what remained, 963 pounds, 



158 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

was thrown overboard, being decayed, and putrid. A board of survey 
had condemned it, but neither the board, nor any member thereof, 
nor Dr. Daly, at that time suggested or intimated that this beef had 
been chemically treated. Dr. Daly testified that previous to the con- 
demnation of the beef he took from a kettle, in which some of it was 
being boiled, two bottles of the broth, and having corked but not sealed 
the bottles, placed them in his portmanteau for safe-keeping. One of 
the bottles was broken and the contents lost. He preserved the fluid 
contained in the other bottle and on or about September 15, at his 
home in Pittsburg, analyzed it, obtaining a residuum which exhibited 
the characteristics of boric and salicylic acid. 

Dr. Daly when he testified had in his possession a brownish powder, 
which he said was the residuum from the broth above mentioned. He 
consented that Professor Clarke, chief chemist of the United States 
Geological Survey, should analyze the substance. It was so analyzed, 
and Professor Clarke testified that traces of boric and salicylic acid 
were found. 

The meat sent aboard the Panama had been kept ashore some time 
out of a refrigerator. It was handled by several persons and exposed 
to deterioration at Ponce and aboard the Fanama. 

It is to be further noted that Dr. Daly afterwards saw other beef at 
Chickamauga and Jacksonville which he suspected to have been chem- 
ically treated, but he did not take samples of the beef, nor analyze it, 
nor did he at the time report his suspicions to any person, so far as is 
known to the commission. 

Dr. Daly states that the injected meat "tasted when first cooked like 
decomposed boric acid." The proof before us is that boric acid in meat 
does not decompose and that it has no taste. He speaks of the odor 
emitted by the meat, but the proof is that boric acid has no odor. 

After being' delivered from the refrigerator ship this meat was on 
shore under a shed. The commissary received it as good meat and 
issued it as such, but there was no refrigerator at Ponce. The meat 
was exposed to the elements and to the handling of many persons. 

Little attention need be paid to the statement made by Dr. Daly 
touching the question of beef shown him by Colonel (now General) 
"Weston that had already, as a test, been sixty hours in the sun with- 
out being perceptibly tainted, so far as the sense of smell could detect, 
for Dr. Daly says that he has imjilicit confidence in General Weston, 
and that whatever the latter may say about it is true. 

We insert here a copy of General Weston's testimony, which abso- 
lutely disposes of the charge that the beef seen by Dr. Daly at Tampa 
was beef that was furnished by the contractors, or issued to the troops. 

Question 1. As stated (in testimony of Colonel Osgood), four quarters of beef, said 
to liave been prepared by meat process, were allowed to be hung up on the deck of 
a transport sailing from Tampa that the preservation power of the process might be 
tested. Please state fully all you know about this matter. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 159 

Reply. About June 8, 1898, the Comal, on which I sailed to Cuba, lay at Port 
Tampa, Avhere I received from Mr. Edwards aud Mr. Powell a few cattle to test by 
exposure to the sun, the object being to find out how long the beef would last before 
decomposition would sot in. The beeves were cut np, and some, if not all, covered 
with burlap. Mr. Edwards said that the beef had been treated in a closed car at 
Port Tampa, by a Mr. Powell of New York city. Mr. Powell was present. I talked 
to him as to the manner of treatment; asked him if it was gaseous or lic^uid. He 
said it was a simple aud harmless process, and if the beef stood the test and his Itid 
was accepted that he would submit the process to us, and if not satisfactory, we 
needn't take it. 

I took the beef to test it, and asked Mr. Edwards to send some of it to a few 
regiments. I know some was sent to Colonel Wood's regiment (Rough Riders), and 
to some other ships where the Third and Sixth Regiments of Cavalry were, and to 
explain that we wanted the beef tested by exiiosnro to the sun. 

At this time the troops were subsisting on the travel ration, the meat portion of 
which was canned beef, so that there appeared no probability of the few regiments 
I sent the quarters to, to get it mixed up with fresh beef for issue, nor could it be 
taken for an issue, as all of the three beeves I had received, the bulk of which I kept 
on the Comal, wouldn't have been more thin enough for one day's ration for one regi- 
ment of 1,200 men. 

The test aboard the Comal was certainly satisfactory, as the beef, covered with 
burlap, held out eighty hours, and I so informed the Commissary-General of Sub- 
sistence under date of June 11, 1898 ; also Mr. Powell, who was present. 

This beef was at no time the iJroperty of the United States, nor was any of it 
issued to United States troops. During the i)roces8 I examined the beef fre(|uently, 
sometimes every two or three hours, accompanied by the surgeon-general of the 
Swedish or Norwegian army, by the doctor on board the ship, and others; indeed, I 
was so enthusiastic over my work I showed the beef to almost every passer-by. 
Among others to whom I showed the beef, was Major Daly, surgeon, whom I had 
observed with General Miles standing on the bridge of the ship, to whom I explained 
everything I knew about it, namely, that it was beef treated by Mr. Powell, and 
that we were experimenting with it, Mr. Edwards and Mr. Powell having furnished 
it for that purpose. 

Question 2. Was any specially prepared, i. e., chemically treated beef received by 
you, and if any such was received, was any issued to troops ; and if so, to what 
extent, at what place, and to what troops? 

Reply. No. No specially prepared beef was received by me in an official sense. 
The beef referred to in reply to (inestiou No. 1 was received by me for the purpose of 
testing it after the manner indicated in the same rejily. 

Question 3. Did you ever know of any beef being supplied to the Army which had 
been treated by any process intended to delay decomposition through the action of 
any chemical substance other than salt and saltpeter? 

Rejjly. No. 

Question 4. Were you at any time, either before or during the war with Sjiain, 
asked or ordered to receive, for issue to troops, any so-called fresh beef which had 
been treated chemically for preservation reasons? 

Reply. No. 

Question 5. If you were so asked or ordered, state when, whore, and by whom you 
were so asked or ordered. 

Reply. No. 

It may be well briefly to describe the inspection of the beef by the 
officers of the Government of the United States. Inspection of refrig- 
erated beef is provided for by the act of Congress approved March 3, 
1891. 



160 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

By the third section of this act the Secretary of Agriculture shall 
cause to be inspected, prior to their slaughter, all cattle which are sub- 
jects of interstate commerce, and which are about to be slaughtered at 
slaughterhouses in any State or Territory or the District of Columbia, 
the carcasses of which are to be transported to, or sold in, any other 
State or Territory or the District of Columbia, and he may also make 
a post-mortem examination of the carcasses of such cattle. The exam- 
ination is to be made according to rules adopted by the Secretary of 
Agriculture, and after such examination the carcasses which are found 
to be free of disease, and wholesome, sound, and lit for human food, 
shall be marked, stamped, or labeled for identification, as may be pro- 
vided by said rules and regulations of the Secretary of Agriculture. 

It is made a criminal offense to forge, counterfeit, or knowingly and 
wrongfully alter, deface, or destroy any of the marks, stamps, or other 
devices provided for in the regulations of the Secretary of Agriculture 
of any such carcasses. It is unlawful to transport from one State or 
Territory or the District of Columbia into another State or Territory or 
the District of Columbia, or for any person to deliver to another for 
transportation, as above stated, the carcasses which have been exam- 
ined in accordance with the provisions of sections 3 and 4 of the act, 
and which on said examination have been declared by the inspector 
making the same to be unsound or diseased. Inspectors are author- 
ized to give official certificates of the sound and wholesome condition 
of the cattle, their carcasses, and i^roducts, and one copy of every cer- 
tificate shall be filed in the Department of Agriculture, another copy 
shall be delivered to the owner or shipper, and when the cattle or their 
carcasses and products are sent abroad a third copy shall be delivered 
to the chief officer of the vessel on which the shipment shall be made. 

Under this act rules and regulations have been enacted by the Bureau 
of Animal Industry, and will be found in Bulletin ISTo. 9, issued by that 
bureau. Dr. D. E. Salmon is chief of the Bureau of Animal Industry. 

We can not quote in full the complete regulations adopted by the 
Bureau of Animal Industry. It is sufficient to say that i^roprietors of 
slaughterhouses must make ai^plication to the Secretary of Agricul- 
ture for Inspection of cattle and their products. This application must 
be in writing, and the applicant must agree to conform strictly Avith 
all lawful regulations or orders that may be made by the Secretary 
of Agriculture. An official number is given to every slaughtering- 
establishment. 

The Secretary of Agriculture designates an inspector to take charge 
of the examination and inspection of animals and their products for 
each establishment which has been officially numbered, and details to 
such inspector such assistants or other employees as may be necessary 
to carry on the work of inspection. The inspector and all employees 
under his direction have full and free access to all i^arts of the build- 
ing used in the slaughtering of animals and the conversion of their 
carcasses into food products. Each employee must wear a badge. Aii 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 161 

antemortem examiuation of all animals arriving at tbc stock yard for 
slaughter shall be made when they are weighed. Any animal found to 
be diseased or unfit for human food is marked by placing in the car a 
metal tag bearing "IT. S. Condenined" and a serial nnmber. Such 
animals are placed in pens and removed by a numbered permit, signed 
by the inspector, to the abattoir or rendering works, designated by the 
said inspector, where they shall be killed under the supervision of an 
employee of the Bureau of Auimal Industry, ami rendexed in sn(!h 
manner that their products will be unfit for human food. All animals 
mnst be inspected before they ave slaughtered, and no animal shall be 
allowed to i>ass the slaughtering room until it has been insjiected. 

After the animal is slaughtered each carcass is insi^ected. The head 
of each animal shall be held until the inspection of the carcass is com 
pleted, in order that it may be identified in case of condemnation of 
the carcjass. Should any carcass on the postmortem examination be 
found to be diseased and unfit for human food, it shall be nuirked with a 
metal condemnation tag, and shall be removed to tanks on the premises 
and deposited therein, and rendered in such a manner as to prevent its 
withdrawal as a food product. Any i)erson who removes any tags may 
be prosecuted under the acts of Congi ess of Marcli 3, 1<S*J1, and March 
2, 1895. Carcasses designed for interstate or export trade will be 
tagged by the inspector or an employee designated by him with a num- 
bered tag issued by the Department of Agriculture, and a record of 
the same is sent to the Department at Washington. 

This reference to the rules and regulations of the Bureau of Animal 
Industry will sufficiently show how perfect and complete is the super- 
vision of the Government over the meat products of the country. It 
is of course barely possible that in spite of this active and thonnigh 
suiiervision the meat may be tami3ered with, but it is improbable that 
any chenucal substances can be applied to it while it is still in the 
packing establishment. When this inspected and tagged meat leaves 
the establishment of the packer for its dest'nation it is put in a car 
which is prepared for refrigerating purposes, and this car is sealed 
with two seals, one affixed by the packer and one by the railroad com- 
pany. If intended for exportation, the meat is delivered from the car 
to the ship, on board of which there is a refrigerator under the charge 
of men employed by the packers. It can not be said that it is impos- 
sible that the meat while on a car or ship may be tampered with, but 
it is highly improbable that such a thing Avould happen. The system 
of cold storage has been for many years largely used in all parts of 
the world, and without the use of chemicals it has been found sufficient 
to preserve slanglitered meats. 

In the contracts made by the Commissary-General of Subsistence 
for the furnishing of meat at points on the seacoast of the island of 
Porto Rico occupied by the army of the United States it is provided 
that refrigerators are to be supplied to all ships on which such meat is 
to be transi)orted. It is also provided that the contractors shall have 
7833— VOL. 1 11 



162 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

aud operate refrigerating buildings at such poiuts in the island of 
Porto Eico occupied by the army of the United States as may be neces- 
sary for carrying out the purpose of their contract. The beef to be 
furnished by the contractors is to be of nniform good quality, from fat 
steers, United States Government inspected, weighing not less than 
600 pounds dressed weight per carcass, and shall be refrigerated, 
chilled, or frozen in quantities according as it shall be called for by the 
Commissary-General of Subsistence of the United States Army. 

A copy of this contract is attached to the testimony of P>rigadier- 
General Eagan, and a reference to it will show that the beef was to be 
of the best quality. By the terms of the contract it was to be perfectly 
good aud fit for use seventy-two hours after being issued from the ship's 
refrigerator, or twenty-four after being issued from the refrigerator 
buildings to the proper ofticer of the Government. 

This commission has made earnest efforts to arrive at the truth of 
the charge that the meat furnished by the contractors to the troops 
was chemically treated. We have hereinbefore detailed at length the 
testimony of the single witness who, from his own declared knowledge, 
advances the charge. On the other side there is a mass of proof that 
there is no truth in the charge. We have taken the testimony of many 
witnesses who, from their opportunities to know the truth, were able to 
testify as to the character and condition of the meat issued to the troops. 
The Navy uses when practicable refrigerator beef; some of its ofdcers 
have testified to its soundness and excellence. Many officers, Govern- 
ment inspectors, noncommissioned officers, cooks, and privates, have 
given similar testimony. 

It is an established fact that beef kept for a long time in cold storage 
gathers upon its exterior a mold known as the "beard" or "whiskers," 
which gradually affects the meat to a depth varying with the length of 
time the growth has been forming. Eemoval of the affected outer por- 
tion usually shows the meat below to be sound and fit for consumption. 
By the evidence presented to the commission the meat has been traced 
from the animal on the hoof to the commissaries, who received it 
from the contractors and issued it to the troops, all of which seems to 
negative the idea that it had been chemically treated. 

The commission has not confined itself to merely verbal or written 
proof. Immediately upon hearing the testimony of Dr. Daly, on the 
20th of January telegrams were sent to all issuing commissaries in 
Cuba, Porto Eico, and at the various home camps occupied by troops, 
asking that samples of refrigerated beef be at once taken, placed in 
glass jars, securely sealed, and forwarded to the commission. These 
samples were to be of 1 pound weight from the outside and 1 pound 
weight from the inside of a quarter. In response to this request many 
samples have been received and later sent to the chemists of the 
Agricultural and Interior Departments for careful chemical examina- 
tion. The result of analysis has been reported to us in 29 cases, and, 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 103 

as will be seen by the reports appended, in no specimen examined has 
either boric or salycilic acid or other deleterious chemicals been found. 
In view of the facts above set forth, the commission is of the 
opinion that no refrigerated beef furnished by contractors and issued 
to the troops during the war with Spain was subjected to or treated 
with any chemicals by the contractors or those in their employ. 

CANNED MEATS. 

In considering questions concerning canned meats it is not the duty 
of the commission to in({uire into the character, kind, or condition of 
all the canned meats that may be in use in this country. Our specific 
duty is to give an opinion as to the quality of those furnished the sol- 
diers during the recent war with Spain. There has been neither 
allegation nor proof before us that boric, or salicylic, or any other 
acid has been used in the canned meats furnished to the troops, but 
such meats have nevertheless been greatly criticised, and they have, 
for that reason, been tested by us and have been analyzed under our 
direction, and we have taken a great deal of testimony as to the mode 
of their preparation. The canned meat is ordinarily taken from the 
forequarters of beeves. 

Under the regulations of the Agricultural Department, each article 
of food i)roduct made from inspected carcasses must bear a label con- 
taining the official number of the establishment from which said product 
came and also contain a statement that the same has been inspected 
under the provisions of the act of March 3, 1891. A copy of said label 
must be tiled at the Department of Agriculture, Washington, D. C, and, 
after filing, said label will become the mark of identification, showing 
that the products to which it lias been attached have been inspected, as 
provided by these rules and regulations; and any person who shall 
forge, counterfeit, alter, or deface said label will be prosecuted under the 
penalty clause of section 4 of the act of March 3, 1891, as amended in 
the act of March 2, 1895. Each package to be shipped from said estab- 
lishment to any foreign country must have printed or stenciled on the 
side or on the top by the packer or exporter the following : 

FOR EXPORT. 

(a) Official nnmber of establislimeut. 

(b) Nnmber of pieces or pouuds. 

(c) Trade-mark. 

In case said package is for transportation to some other State or 
Territory or to the District of Columbia, in place of the words "for 
export" the words "Interstate trade" shall be substituted. 

The inspector of the Department of Agriculture in charge of the 
establishment at which the meat was prepared being satisfied that the 
articles in said packages came from animals inspected by him, and that 
they are wholesome, sound, and fit for human food, shall paste upon 
such packages mcat-insi)ection stamps bearing serial numbers. 



164 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

In order that the stamps may be protected and to insure uniformity 
in affixiug, inspectors will require of the proprietors of abattoirs and 
packing establishments the adoption of cases suitable for one of the 
two methods mentioned below. The stamp may be afflxed in a grooved 
space let into the box of suillcient size to admit it, similar to that 
required by the Internal- Revenue Bureau for the stamping of packages 
of plug tobacco. Stamps may be placed on either end of the package, 
provided that the sides are made to project at least half an inch to 
atibrd the necessary protection from abrasion. 

The stamp having been aflixed, it must be immediately canceled. 

Great care is taken in the securemeut of these stamps. They are 
not allowed to remain loose about the ofidce or the abattoir and strin- 
gent rules in this regard are made for the government of the inspector. 
Whenever any package of meat products bearing the inspection stamp 
shall have been opened and its contents removed for sale, the stamp on 
said package must be obliterated, Eeports of the work of inspection 
carried on in every establishment shall be daily forwarded to the 
Department by the inspector in charge on such blank forms and in 
such manner as are specified by the Department. 

We take the following description of the preparation of this meat 
from a paper issued by the Agricultural Department : 

In preparing the meat for canning, large pieces are put in vata of boiling water 
and thus cooked. This softens the meat, makes it more tender, and facilitates the 
separation of bone and gristle. After these are removed, the meat is cut into pieces 
of proper size for the can. The top is then soldered on the can, but a small hole is 
left, through which air and steam escape in the heating of the can which follows. 
This heating also kills the bacteria. The hole is then closed by a drop of melted 
solder, and the can is hermetically sealed. The cans are then tested to see whether 
this handling has been done so as to protect the moat from deterioration. To this 
end they are kept in a warm room for a number of days. If the bacteria have not 
been killed, the meat will decompose, gases will be produced, and the cans will 
swell. The number of cans that swell and thus indicate imperfect handling is said 
to average about one-fourth of 1 jjer cent. The meat in them is thrown into the 
waste heap with the intestines and other refuse and made into fertilizers. 

This statement corresponds with oral testimony taken by us. As 
appears from the testimony of Dr. W. O. Atwater, professor of chem- 
istry at Wesleyan University at Middletown, Conn., it is impossible, 
by the process described, to remove from the meat which goes into the 
cans any considerable part of the actual nutriment. The difference 
between the meat as prepared in this way and that ordinarily cooked 
in the household is that the canned meat does not contain tlie bone 
and gristle, which are not edible. According to analyses the per- 
centage of protein in boiled beef is 24 j)er cent, and canned 26 per cent. 
The proportion of fat in the canned meats analyzed was relatively 
smaller, doubtless because leaner meat was used for canning. Tlie 
value of meat, as of other foods for nourishment, depends upon its 
digestibility; that is, upon the proportion of nutritive material that is 
absorbed from the digestive tract dnring its passage tlirougli the body. 
!Numerous tests have been made of tlie digestibility of fresh meats as 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. inf) 

ordiuarily cooked for eating. The iiiimber of experiments iniulo with 
cauued meats is smaller, but there is no reason to assume any consider- 
able ditfeience between the two. 

Nearly all the protein of beef, as it is ordinarily eaten, is digested 
and assimilated by the system. The high nutritive value of properly 
cooked canned meat is therefore well settled by accurate experiment. 
In the great stock yards in Chicago, Kansas City, and elsewhere, where 
nearly all of the canned meat is put up, all the meat is inspected on the 
hoof and at the time of slaughtering by Government experts, who are 
on the ground all the time, and without who^e examination not an ani- 
mal is killed; and no shipment of meat can be made without inspection 
without violation of Government regulations. This furnishes a guar- 
anty tor the quality of the canned meat. In treating of refrigerated 
beef we have minutely explained the process of inspection as to refrig- 
erated meats, and the same applies as to canned meat. 

Dr. Atwater has been conducting an extended investigation of the 
nutritive value of food. The food problem has also been very carefully 
studied in Europe. Distinguished scientists in France, Germany, Rus- 
sia, and other European countries have been engaged in this investi- 
gation. The value of different foods for men engaged in ordinary occu- 
pations, for soldiers in time of peace and war, and persons in various 
other conditions of life has been studied. In treating of these ques- 
tions Dr. Atwater has said that in the cooking and canning, which is 
in the nature of boiling rather than roasting, water is expelled, but the 
amount of nutritive material removed is very small indeed, so that a 
pound of ordinary cauued meat has, ou the average, much more nutri- 
ment than the same weight of the fresh meat from which it is prepared. 
The removal of the bone and part of the water, while so little nutri- 
ment is taken away, leaves the meat in a less bulky and more concen- 
trated form, so that pound for pound the canned meat has a higher 
nutritive value than the fresh meat. 

In a large number of analyses of fresh and canned meats, collected 
at Chicago during the World's Fair, and in other parts of the country 
before and since that time, and analyzed under the direction of Dr. 
Atwater, these proportions of the nutritive ingredients in the canned 
meats have been found to be larger than in the ordinary fresh meats. 
This is especially true of the protein compounds, which are used by the 
body to build up its nitrogenous materials, as blood, muscle, and bone. 
Among the analyses made by him some of the largest proportions of 
protein were found in the boiled meats. He greatly commends such 
]>repared meats. 

The use of canned meats, according to the proof before us, is very 
general. It has been a part of the ration in our military service since 
August 1, 1878, as appears by order hereinafter quoted, confirmed by 
General Order, No. 8, February 8, 1888, also quoted. It is issued as a 
ration every ten days in our Navy. We have had before us a uuniber 
of abstracts of reports made by ofhcers, reciting that the tinned meat 



166 INVESTIf4ATI0N OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

issued to the troops is impalatable, that it is stringy, that it is coarse, 
flat, and tasteless. On the other hand, other officers and enlisted men 
and citizens with equal opportunities for having knowledge have testi- 
fied before us that the tinned roast beef is pure, sound, and j)alatable. 
This difference of opinion must to some extent be accounted for by diver- 
sity in taste. We ourselves have tasted the contents of several cans of 
the meat, some of which had been issued to troops in Porto Rico and 
brought back by tliem, some of which were furnished to us by the Com- 
manding General; three cases bearing the brand of different packers 
were sent at our request by Captain Groome, of the First city troop of 
Philadelphia, and some we purchased at random. Specimens of all 
these samples were furnished to expert chemists in Washington for 
analysis. The reports of these analyses are appended hereto, marked 
Exhibit P. In connection with them will be found a report from Capt. 
A. E. Hunt, of the Pennsylvania Artillery, in which he transmits tlie 
result of an analysis of a can of Iresh roast beef, taken by him from a 
case which had been issued to his battery in Porto Rico, and brought 
home. 

There is no doubt that when issued to soldiers in Cuba and Porto 
Rico, where it was exposed to the heat, and where they did not have the 
proper means of treating the cans, as directed on the labels, and could 
not properly cook it, the meat was unpalatable, especially to those 
suffering from malaria, or convalescent. 

The result of our own testing and of all the analyses made at our 
instance, as also the analysis made by Mr. James O. Handy, chief 
chemist, Pittsburg testing laboratory (specimen referred to by Captain 
Hunt), is that the canned meat which has been brought to our attention 
is pure, sound, and nutritive. It has not been found to contain any 
acids or any deleterious substance, but to be unadulterated meat. 
The testimony before us is that the canned meat is not, in general, 
intended to be issued to troops except as an emergency ration. The 
preponderance of the proof is that meat on the hoof and the refrigerated 
beef are more acceptable. A number of officers and others have testi- 
fied that the meat is unpalatable. Its palatability greatly depends 
upon the mode in which it is cooked. 

In a tropical climate, carried on the march, exposed to heat, the meat 
so changes in ai^pearance as to become repulsive. In the Navy, where 
the meat is properly cared for, there has been no complaint, so far as 
has appeared in evidence before us. 

After careful consideration we find that canned meat, as issued to 
the troops, was generally of good quality, was i)roperly prepared, and 
contained no deleterious substance. At times probably material of poor 
quality is issued; in one of the cans sent to us and examined by the 
chemist a large amount of gristle was found. 

That it was not issued "under pretense of an ex])eriment" is indi- 
cated by the fact that it has been in use in the Army for more than 



REPORT OF TIIH COMMISSION. Hi 7 

twenty years, as shown by the following extract fioiii general orders 
from the Headquarters of the Army of the Tuited JStates: 

GeNEKAL OKDKRS, ) llKAUQUAUTKRS OP TIIK vVllMY, 

V ADJUTANT-(iK\KKAL'8 OFKICK, 

No. 59. > ir<isli'ni(il<ni, Aiirjiist /, 1S7S. 

By diroction <>l' tlio Secretary of War tlit* iollowinu; order is ])nl)li8lied to iho 
Army : 

I. The followiiii;' issues may bo made to troops travoling upon cars or transports, 
or in the Held, when it is impracticabk^ to cook their rations, viz: Seventy-fivo 
pounds of canned fresh or corned beef, and sixteen 3-pound cans or six l-galhm caus 
of halved beans, or 1.5 pounds of cheese per hundred rations — the issues of canned 
beef to bo iu lieu of tlie meat, and the beans and cheese in lieu of the vegetable 
ration authorized by existing regulations and orders. None of the above-mentioned 
articles vrill be sold by companies or detachments as savings. 



By command of General Sherman: 



E. D. TowNSEND, Adjutant-General. 



General Orders, ) Headquarters of the Ar:mv, 

Adjutant-General's Office, 



No. 8. ) Washington, February S, ISSS. 

By direction of the Secretary of War, paragraph 21.50 of the regulations is 
amended to read as follow s : 

2150. A ration is the established daily allowance of food for one person. For the 
United States Army it is now composed as follows : 12 ounces of pork or bacon or 
canned beef (fresh or corned), or 1 pound and 4 ounces of fresh beef, or 22 ounces of 
salt beef; 18 ounces of soft bread or Hour, or 16 ounces of hard bread, or 1 pound 
and 4 ounces of corn meal. To every 100 rations, 15 pounds of beans or peas, or 10 
pounds of rice or hominy, 10 pounds of green coffee, or 8 pounds of roasted (or 
roasted and ground) coffee or 2 pounds of tea, 15 pounds of sugar; 4 quarts of vine- 
g.ar, 1 pound and 8 ounces of adamantine or star caudles, 4 pounds of soap, 4 pounds 
of salt, 4 ounces of pepper; and to troops iu the field, when necessary, 4 pounds of 
yeast-powder to the 100 rations of Hour. 

By command of Lieutenant-General Sheridan: 

K. C. Drum, Adjutant General. 

Official. 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

As respeets the quality of canned meats in general as used in the 
Army, the following communicatiou is indicative of what the opinion 
has been of those best informed charged with the duty of examining 
and reporting in relation thereto : 

War Department, Adjutant-General's Office, 

Washinyton, October 19, 1S97. 
Mr. W. Clarke Marshall, 

Produce Exchange, G646 Wentworth avenue, Chicago, III. 
Sir. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 
19th ultimo, to the Secretary of AVar, giving information regarding the proper 
food to be taken to the sufferers in Alaska, and also for the subsistence of the troops 
there, and ascribing the sickness in that locality to the use of salt meats, and iu 
reply thereto the Secretary of War desires me to call attention to the following 
remarks of the Medical Department of the Army, in which the Major-General Com- 
manding the Army concurs : 

"Canned ments put uj) by reimtable firms are wliolesome and liavo flie full nutri- 
tive value of the meat contents, and iu the absence of fresh meat are to be preferred 



188 INVEftTiaATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

to any of the tliice yutistitutes aiiggcsted by the "writer. Meat wheu salted loses a 

certain proportion of its albuminoids and extractives, but what remains is valuable 

as food and has no specific influence in the production of scurvy. With hard bread, 

bacon, pea meal, and an occasional issue of fresh beef, or in its absence canned meat, 

a dietary of a satisfactory force value can be provided. To these tliere should be 

added, for the x>revention of scurvy, occasional issues of potatoes, onions, or canned 

vegetables, or in their unavoidable absence desiccated vegetables anil dried fruit." 

Very respectfully, 

, ^Sigued) W. H. Carter, 

A ssistant A djuta nt- General. 
Mailed October 19, 1897. 

All the above in quotation is the indorsement upon the letter of 
Mr. Marshall, signed by C. Smart, Deputy Surgeon-General, IT. S. A. 
The indorsement of the major-general commanding is in the following 
words : 

Headquarters op the Army, 

Washington, D. C, October IS, 1S97. 
Tlio major-general commanding concurs in the remarks of the deputy surgeon- 
general, 4tli indorsement. 

(Signed) J. C. Gilmore, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Reference has been made to reports received from Army officers and 
transmitted to the commission by the Major-General Commanding the 
Army. These reports were made in compliance with the following 
general order, issued in accordance with memorandum * submitted by 
him: 

Ad.juta:n't-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, September 20, 1898. 
Commanding General, Department of the East, 

Governor's Island, New York: 
Major-General Commanding directs that each regiment of regular troops in active 
service in Cuba and Porto Rico be called upon for report as to results obtained from 
use of canned fresh roast beef during campaigns in those countries. 

(Signed) H. C. CoRBiN, Adjutant-General. 

(Signed) H. O. S. H. 

(Same to commanding general, Department of Santiago, Santiago, Cuba; command- 
ing general, U. S. Troops, Porto Rico; commanding general, Camp Wikort", Montank 
Point, N. Y. ; commanding general. Department of Gulf, Atlanta, Ga. ; commanding 
general, Department Lakes, Chicago, 111.; commanding general, Department of 
California, San Francisco, Cal. ; commanding general, Department Colorado, Denver, 
Colo. ; commanding genera], Department Missouri, Fort Omaha, Nebr. ; command- 
ing general, Department Dakota, Fort Snelling,- Minn.) 

" Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, T>. C, September 20, 1S9S. 

MEMORANDUM FOR THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 

The jNIajor-General Commanding directs that the commanding officer of each regi- 
ment of regular troops that were in active service in Cuba and Porto Rico be called 
upon for a report as to the results obtained from the use of canned fresh roast beef 
during the campaigns in those two countries. 

When all tliese regiments have been heard from the reports will be sent to these 
headquarters for tlte iiecessar\ action. 

(Signed) j. c. Gilmore, 

IWiijadivr-Gencral, U. S. Volunteers. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 169 

MEDICAL BEPARTlVrENT. 

BRia. GEN. GEORGE M. STERNBERG, STIRGEON-GENERAL, U. S. A., IN 

CHARGE. 

By paragraph 1302 of tlie Regulations of the Army, "the Medical 
Department, under the direction of the Secretary of War, is charged 
with the duty of investigating the sanitary condition of the Army, and 
making recommendations in reference thereto, with the duty of caring 
for the sick and wounded, making physical examinations of officers and 
enlisted men, and furnishing all medical and hospital supplies, except 
for public animals." 

Prior to the declaration of war (April 21) no preparation for the 
approaching conflict had been made by the Medical Department. The 
number of oflicers was as it had been in time of peace. Many of the 
okler surgeons were on bureau and administrative duty; several of 
the corps were not in physical condition to take the iield. Under the 
Revised Statutes of tlie United States (Sec. 1259) retired officers could 
not be called upon for active service, and for want of appropriations by 
Congress it became impossible, after July 15, 1892, to employ civilian 
physicians under contract. 

Seven hundred and ninety-one men were in the Hospital Corps on the 
1st of May, only 74 more than on the 1st of January preceding, and of 
these, under existing laws, not to exceed 100 could be hospital stewards. 
The privates had become more or less skilled iu litter bearing and first 
aid work, but had received only a limited amount of training as nurses. 

The medical su]iplies on hand were only what remained at the posts 
of the semiannual issue of the preceding January, the several purvey- 
ing depots at New York, St. Louis, and San Francisco not having as 
yet received any of the medicines and stores contracted for in antici- 
pation of the regular issue of the coming July. Models of imi)roved 
medical and hospital chests had been determined upon, but no contracts 
for such chests had been given out, nor was it thought that bids for 
them could be legally asked for. 

The need of a hospital ship had been made known to the Secretary 
of War, but no steps had been taken to secure such vessel. Only 
$20,000 had been given to the Department out of the $50,000,000 emer- 
gency fund, and the Secretary of War had directed the Surgeon-Gen- 
eral to make no purchases until the question of whether or not there 
was to be war had been definitely settled. 

More than a week before the President's proclamation of April 23 was 
issued the regular regiments were moving or under orders to move. 
By tliat proclamation the National Guard to the number of 125,000 was 
called out, and thirty days later there was a call for 75,000 more. 

MEDICAL OFFICERS. 

Each regular regiment had a medical oCTKier and each volunteer 
regiment a surgeon and two assistants. These medical officers of the 



170 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

volunteer force were, with few exceptions, unacquainted with the mili- 
tary duties that would necessarily devolve upon them in the field, how- 
ever well fitted they might be to care for the sick and wounded. The 
act of Congress of April 22 directed that a chief surgeon should be 
on the staff of a commander of a corps, on that of a division com- 
mander, and on that of the brigade commander. A liberal construction 
of this provision of the act led to the appointment by the President 
during the war of se\'enty-seven surgeons from civil life, and he also 
commissioned a surgeon and two assistant surgeons for each of the regi- 
meuts of United States volunteer infantry, cavalry, and engineers, 
as it was organized. By act of May 12 fifteen additional assistant 
surgeons of the United States Army were authorized, as also the employ- 
ment under contract of civilian physicians, the total number thus 
employed being between 600 and 700. 

None of the medical men from civil life commissioned by the Presi- 
dent underwent any examination, nor did any of the contract surgeons 
until after October 21. No rank and but very moderate pay being given 
to the contract doctors, few men of wide experience and matured judg- 
ment were found among them; though among the civilians commis- 
sioned by the l*resident as corps, division, and brigade surgeons, were 
some of the ablest men in the medical profession of our country. The 
testimony shows that, as a rule having few exceptions, the medical offi- 
cers of the Army were faithful, earnest workers, and to their unremit- 
ting efiorts to properly and skillfully care for the sick and wounded, 
often in the midst of adverse conditions, is in large measure due the 
unusually low mortality rate indicated in the returns. 

At Oami) Thomas after the 1st of July, in some degree at Montauk, 
and especially in Cuba, there was a scarcity of medical officers, due to 
the unexpectedly large number of sick and of wounded, and the break- 
ing down of those on duty. It is to be regretted that due provision by 
law was not made for the commissioning of surgeons and assistant sur- 
geons, United States Volunteers, on the general staff of the army as 
are the medical officers of the regular establishment. There would 
have been thus obtained competent men in full number and the best 
interests of the sick beyond question subserved. 

NURSES AND NURSING. 

As already stated, there were in the Hospital Corps of the Regular 
Army on the 1st of May a little less than 800 men — 99 hospital stew- 
ards, 100 acting stewards, and 592 privates. By the act of Congress of 
June 2, permission was granted to increase the number of hospital 
stewards to 200, and such increase was rapidly made. In the act 
establishing the volunteer force (passed April 26), a hospital steward 
was authorized for each battalion, but no provision was made for a hos- 
pital corps, though such corps to number 25 privates for each regiment 
and 50 additional for each division had been asked for. The failure to 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 171 

provide for a volunteer hospital corps on the part of Congress is much 
to be regretted, since it necessitated the disbaiidin"- of the Hospital 
Cori)s in connection with tlie regiments of the National (iunrd. Not a 
few of these had been fairly well organized and some were quite thor- 
oughly trained. Many of the men of these corps enlisted as privates 
in the regiments, but many did not, and of those so enlisting only a 
limited number, some by transfer to the Ilospital Corps of the liegular 
Army, and still fewer by detail, were later of service as hospital orderlies 
and nurses. 

In many cases it was found that former members of the Ilospital 
Corps of regiments of the National Guard, while willing to care for the 
regimental sick, would not enter the regular service for a term of years, 
and of those who did so enter, among whom were a few physicians, 
some druggists, and quite a large number of medical students and for- 
mer hospital attendants, much discontent prevailed as soon as the peace 
protocol was signed and applications for discharge became numerous. 
The great majority of the Hospital Corps men secured by enlistment 
and transfer had little or no proper training as nurses, and as a conse- 
quence were largely inefficient. As hospitals were established and 
the sick became numerous, attendants had to be secured by detail from 
regiments, some of the men assigned to such duty being of good char- 
acter and anxious to serve, but the large proportion in every respect 
unfit for nurses. As the regiments were moved the men belonging to 
them who had been detailed for hospital duty were called in, with 
resulting derangement of hospital organization and greater or less 
interference with the proper care of the sick. The system of securing 
so-called nurses by det;nl is a bad one and should be abolished. If 
the nursing in semipermanent camps and hospitals other than regi- 
mental is to be done by men, there should be maintained in time of 
peace a hospital corps of size proportionate to any reasonably to be 
expected emergency demand ; a corps trained to properly care for the 
sick as well as to dress and remove the wounded. 

In the last twenty years the value, the efficiency, and the availability 
of well-trained women nurses has been demonstrated, and it is much to 
be regretted that this fact was not fully realized l)y the medical otlicers 
of the Army when the war commenced. It is to be remembered 
though that in military hospitals in the field women had been employed 
as nurses, if at all, only to a very limited extent, and there was good 
reason for questioning whether a field hospital, with a moving army, 
was any place for a woman. Our recent experience may justly be 
held to have shown that female nurses, properly trained and properly 
selected, can be duly cared for and are of the greatest value. Those 
who have been serving under contract in our military hospitals, and 
there have been about 1,500 of them, have with scarcely an exception 
done excellent work, and it is to the high credit of the American 
soldier that not a single complaint has been made by any nurse of 
personal discourtesy. 



172 INVESTIGATION OF rONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

These women nurses, with the exception of those belonging to the 
religious orders, and certain immunes, chiefly colored women sent to 
Santiago about the middle of July, were selected by the Daughters of 
the Amerii;au Eevolutiou, under the official direction of Mrs. Dr. McGee, 
of Washington, for several months past an acting assistant surgeon, 
United -tales Army, on duty in the Surgeon-General's Office. Of the 
members of leligious orders, a few over 200 were Sisters of Charity, 12 
Sisters of Mercy, 11 Sisters of the Holy Cross, 12 Sisters of St. Joseph, 
5 Congregated American Sisters (Indian women from South Dakota), 
quite a number of St. Barnabas Guild, and 2 Sisters of St. Margaret, 
the two organizations last mentioned being Protestant. JSTo nurses 
were furnished by the Red Cross Society proper, except the few taken 
by Miss Barton to Cuba. Of the female nurses it is reported that they 
were much overworked, espe(ually at Montauk, and 13 of them died. 

As early as the 27th of April Mrs. Dr. McGee officially asked the 
Surgeon-General if he would accept the services of fenuile nurses, at 
which time the Daughters of the American devolution had several 
hundred applications from women duly trained. On the 13th of May 
four nurses were sent to the general hospital at Key West, but as the 
Surgeon General was unwilling to send women luirses, except when they 
were asked for by surgeons in charge of hospitals, few were placed 
under contract before the 1st of July— less than 50 — and not more than 
100 before the 15th of July, at which date between 2,000 and 3,000 had 
been examined and approved by the Daughters of the American 
Revolution and were subject to contract. 

MEDICAL SUPPLIES. 

At the commencement of hostilities the Medical Department had few 
medicines and practically no hospital furniture. The economy with 
which it had for years been administered, due to lack of appropriations 
by Congress, except for annual needs of the Army, had prevented the 
accumulation of any reserve stores. No contracts, even i)rovisional, 
had been made during the months of March and April to provide 
proper furniture and food stuffs, funds not being available. 

If such contracts could have been made, if in open market supplies 
in large amounts could have been purchased and stored ready for 
prompt shipment as nee<led, much of the complaints and wants of the 
sick and the surgeons would have been prevented. 

As the regular regiments were mobilized, the medical officers with 
them were ordered to take for immediate use such medicines and 
hospital stores as were at the various posts at which they had been 
stationed, an order not obeyed in all cases, some of the regiments as 
they arrived at the places of rendezvous being found to be practically 
unsupplied. The several supply depots having but little material on 
hand, the Surgeon -General on the 3d of May telegrapiied the governors 
of the various States asking that their troops might take with them the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 173 

medical and hospital sui)i)lies belonging to them as national guard 
organizations. Sixteen of the States were found to be without such 
supplies and a large number of the others had them in but Ihnited 
quantities, so tbat most of the volunteer regiments on arrival at Camp 
Thomas or Camp Alger had neither medicines nor hospital stores. 

As no i)art of the national defense fund could be used i^rior to the 
declaration of war for purposes other than coast defense, to secure in 
advance meant direct violation of rules and regulations, tlie result of 
which might be, under the existing system of accountability, official or 
financial ruin or both. 

By the 1st of May a contract had been made for the medical and sur- 
gical field chests, the patterns of which had been previously determined 
upon. Delivery of these chests was to begin in a couple of weeks, but 
in fact it was the last of the month before any were ready, the issue of 
the various articles to be packed in such cases being correspondingly 
delayed. To meet immediate wants, on May 12 a few medicines, stores, 
articles of hospital furniture, bedding, etc., were ordered to be placed 
in common chests and sent forward as an advance outfit for regiments, 
twenty-five of which were ready at the New York depot on the 16th 
of May and five at St. Louis on the 21st. Authority to purchase nec- 
essary medicines was promi)tly given to officers in the field, and such 
purchases were made in small quantities and at irregular intervals. 
To provide for the wants of the large number of regiments assembled 
at Camp Thomas, a special supply depot was established May 23 at 
Lytle, Ga., to which supplies were sent from the St. Louis depot, the 
first shipment in any amount not reaching its destination until late in 
May. Local depots were opened at Tampa, Jacksonville, and other 
places convenient to large camps; but, though there were these sec- 
ondary distributing centers which received and issued in the aggregate 
a great amount of medicines and hospital supi)lies, there was very 
widespread and persistent complaints of lack of what was needed or 
was thought to be. 

A large number of regimental oificers and hospital surgeons have 
testified to existing deficiencies. Commanding officers, inspectors, and 
special boards called attention again and again to the needs of the sick. 
As a rule, with comparatively few exceptions, the most important 
and most necessary drugs were to be had, though at times in limited 
quantities, or could be secured by purchase at some place near by. 

What were the reasons for the existence of these wants ! In the first 
l)lace, the almost absolute lack of any supplies in store Avhen the war 
broke out. Medicines could be purchased in any quantity and without 
delay, as could bedding and certain articles of hospital furniture, but 
other articles of adopted pattern, as surgical instruments or cots of 
special design, could not. Time was lost in having manufactured 
standard chests of various kinds to contain drugs, stores, dressings, 
furniture, etc., and the making of these articles never kept up with the 
demand for them. 



174 INVESTIGATION OV CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Next, the too restricted suppl^\- table, which might very properly have 
had upoti it a number of drug-s in common use iii civil life, the issue of 
wliich had not been authorized by the Medical l^epartmeutof the Army. 

Next, the lack of knowledge on the i)art of untrained medical officers 
how to get what they needed when it was on hand and ready for issue. 

Next, the unwise restrictions put upon medical officers by chief sur- 
geons, notably at Camp Thomas, as respects the form of requisitions 
and the articles that might be called for. 

Next, the taking- away of regimental supplies to tit up division hos- 
pitals, and the issue of medicines to regiments only through such 
hospitals. 

Next, the actual want of supplies at local depots or the ditificulfcy of 
getting them out of such depots on approved requisitions. 

Next, the necessary draining of scantily supplied depots to tit out 
troops about to move. 

Many times the scarcity was apparent, not real, articles being wanted 
that could not readily and safely be transported, and therefore were 
not for issue, or were of questionable value, or were prejiarations the 
place of which could be supplied by articles already on hand of like or 
essentially the same therapeutic character. 

The reasons stated are those which concern the Medical Department, 
for which it may properly be interrogated. But no small part of the 
troubles consequent ujion lack of supi)lies was due to the slowness with 
which such supplies were transported and the failure to i)roperly deliver 
them, the responsibility for which rests upon the Quartermaster's 
Department. 

In the earlier weeks this department objected very strongly to ship- 
ping by express, because of the expense, and again and again trans- 
portation by so-called fast freight occupied many days, at times weeks, 
e. g., to cite but one out of the many cases stated in evidence, supplies 
sent from the St. Louis depot to Ohickamauga May 17 were not received 
by the end of the month. The stores were often sent in comparatively 
small quantities, much less than a carload; the railway lines were 
blocked for miles with unloaded cars, and in the absence of cards on 
the outside indicating the kind of freight within, medical stores could 
be found only by the opening of many cars and the overhauling of 
what they held. In a number of instances medical supplies, once even 
to the extent of a complete outfit of a 200-bed hospital, were lost for 
weeks; in a few cases to be found only upon the cleaning out of aban- 
doned warehouses. 

Bad as the conditions were on land, they were worse when the 
transportation was across the sea. JVJedicines, stores, and hosjiital 
furniture were often put in the holds of transports for Cuba and 
Porto Eico under all sorts of freight. At Siboney and Daiciuiri, 
because of the lack of proper landing facilities, and the difficulties 
of tinding ships and getting at their contents, perhaps a full third 
of the sui)|)lies taken aboard at Tamjia early in Jum^. were not 
l)ut on shore until the middle of July, after the surrender of Santiago 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 175 

and the opening of its luirbor, and some of these stores were carried 
north to be later brought bade uiidisturbed. On the transport 
Grands Duchesse, saihug from Charleston ou the liOth of July, and on 
the Mobile, sailing from the same port ou the 21st of July, were large 
qnautities of mediciues and hospital stores for the Fifth Corps iu Cuba, 
which were carried to Porto Rico, wheie the vessels were detaiued for 
seven and ten days, respectively, and did not reach Santiago, the Grande 
JDuchesse uutil August 2 and the Mobile August 10. Had those medi- 
cines and hospital stores for the troops in Cuba been seut direct instead 
of by way of Porto Rico they would have been received ami in the 
hands of those requiring them days before the Ith of August, when 
General Shafter reported by telegram the extreme shortness existing 
and declared it to be a " chronic condition." The supplies on the Concho 
for the troops in Porto Rico were so stored in the hold that they were 
not gotten at until after the ship had goue to Arroyo, partially 
unloaded, and returned to Ponce a week later. 

The loading, shipping, and unloading of medical stores are not (hme 
under the orders of the Medical but of the Quartermaster's Depart- 
ment, and the Medical Department is not responsible therefor. The 
blame for so much of the lack of medical supplies as was the result of 
slow transportation and failure to deliver, and it is no small portion 
thereof, must rest upon the Quartermaster's Department, the system 
it follows, and the ofticers belonging to it. 

The lack of supplies in Cuba for six weeks after the landing of the 
expeditionary force was so great, and its results at times so threatening, 
that it should be noticed somewhat in detail. Just on the eve of 
embarkation at Tampa there was put upon the transports the outfit of 
one division hospital and a part of another, and an amount of medicines 
and dressings deemed sufhcient for the needs of the force expected to 
be able to capture tlie city of Santiago without serious loss, open up 
the harbor, and get away to some other place, in Porto Rico or Cuba. 
Only seven ambulances were taken, and this by order of General Shaf- 
ter, who has accepted the responsibility and frankly acknowledged that 
it would have been better had more been carried along. Even of these 
seven, only three were at the disposal of the medical ofticers on July 1. 
Arrived on the Cuban coast, the division hospital outtit was landed, but 
without tents, and as no transportation of any kind, save the horses 
of medical officers, was furnished for this hospital until after its estab- 
lishment toward the front on the third day, only such supplies were 
carried forward as could be taken on the horses just mentioned and in 
the hands of the men of the Hospital Corps. The fragmentary outfit of 
the cavalry divisiou was also landed and moved forward in much the 
same way. 

Of the regimental outfits but few weie unloaded, and those taken 
ashore were, for want of transportation, almost without exception 
left behind when the troops moved to the front. While there were 



176 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

surgical dressings enough for a first treatment of the large number 
of wounded from the fights of July 1 and 2, there was no food for 
the men other than such soup as could be made out of the commissary 
canned meat and vegetables, sui)plemented, and largely so, by the 
more proper gruel, milk, cocoa, and rice furnished by the Eed Cross 
organization, and prepared and distributed by Miss Barton and the 
nurses accompanying her. The base hospital at Siboney,in working 
order July 1, was quickly overcrowded with wounded, and had scarcely 
enough medicines and stores for immediate use. The hospital steamer 
Olivette was fairly equipped as a floating division hospital, but could 
only to a very limited extent furnish medicines to the troops on shore. 
By the end of the first week in July the medical supplies were almost 
entirely exhausted, but large amounts of medicines and stores were 
about this time brought by the Belief aud later by the Olivette. These 
supplies, in turn, were so quickly expended that on the 4th of August 
the chief surgeon of the First Division reported that for eleven days 
the only medicines he had on liand for distribution were quinine, 
epsom salts, and castor oil. An emergency purchase in open market 
in Santiago was ordered and made. 

Fortunately for the sick, at various times and in many places private 
charity came to the rescue and a large amount of milk and ice, of deli- 
cacies, of even lacking medicines, instruments, and articles of hospital 
furniture were supplied by the National Belief Commission, auxiliary 
Eed Cross organizations, State and local aid societies, and individuals. 
Without doubt, at times undue advantage was taken of the opportunity 
thus afforded surgeons to get what they wanted; since no responsibility 
attached to tlie receipt and exi^enditure of articles thus obtained as 
there would have been had tbey been drawn on requisition from the 
Medical Department. It was a fact and one to be regretted, one that 
should not have existed, that again and again agents of private organ- 
izations had on hand and ready for issue an abundance of necessary 
and needed supplies, when officers of the Government^ whose duty it 
was to furnish them, did not have them and therefore could not give 
them out. 

From the very limited information furnished the commission, it would 
appear that the troops sent to Manila were fairly well supplied with 
medicines, dressings, and hospital stores for use en route and after 
arrival in the Philippines, 

SICKNESS AND MORTALITY. 

During the early weeks of the occupation of the various camps of 
instruction (Alger, Thomas, and Tampa being the large ones), notwith- 
standing the want of shelter, of proper sanitation, of well-trained regi- 
mental officers, of competent cooks, of any knowledge on the part of 
the men as to how to take care of themselves, there was very little sick- 
ness, except of a comparatively unimportant character, as intestinal 
troubles of moderate severity, venereal afl'ections, the effects of recent 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



177 



vaccination, a small amount of measles, etc. A few regiments had 
already bad in their State camps some typhoid fever. In the Fifteenth 
Minnesota, at St. Paul and Fort Snelling, there were, in August, 200 
cases out of a total strength of 1,323. A very few cases of the disease 
appeared in some of the regiments soon after arrival at Chickamauga 
and Cauq) Alger. Malarial diseases quickly began to prevail, but were 
controlled in ordinary degree= Of a little over 15(),0()0 men, during the 
month of May, though about (V^ per cent were reported sick, the deaths 
were only 70, i. e., less than 1 in 2,000 of the men enrolled. 

In June sickness was twice as great, but the deaths were still few, 
hardly 1 in 1,500 of the main strength. In July the sick were one- 
third more numerous than in the preceding month, the death rate 
was three times as great. In August the sicl^ness was nearly one- 
halfgreater than in July, with a mortality nearly double. In Sei^- 
tember the sickness had diminished nearly one-third and the death rate 
about 40 per cent. Sixty per cent of the sickness in July, August, and 
September was malarial, typhoid, and diarrheal; and 40 per cent of all 
deaths were from typhoid fever. The mortality from diseases of all kinds 
during live months would, from the returns received, appear to be less 
than 1 per cent of those taken up on sick report. Of the 00,909 volun- 
teers at Camp Thomas, first and last, only 354 died before leaving Chick- 
amauga (0.58 per cent), and only 995 (1.03 jjer cent) up to the 2d of De- 
cember, as appears from the returns tabulated by Brigadier-General 
Boynton. The malarial fever, which so generally affected the troops in 
front of Santiago and produced such intense debility and j)rolonged 
ill health, can hardly be attributed to want of shelter, food, drugs, or 
medical attention, though there were all these wants, since, according 
to the statement made by Major-General Wood, himself a physician, it 
was as largely prevalent among the troops stationed in the locality after 
the return of the Fifth Army Corps, though they were i)roperly sheltered 
and cared for, and many of them were suijposed to be immune. 

Of typhoid fever * at Camp Alger, Camp Thonuis, Camp Meade, Camp 
Wikoff, Tampa, Jacksonville, Santiago, and Porto Rico, there were 
reported 13,770 cases, with 900 deaths, a trifle less than 7 per cent, an 
UDusually low mortality rate. 



statistics of typhoid fever in certain camps and districts. 



Caiiiii ov district. 



Camp Wikoff 

Camp Meade 

Camp Algol' 

Camp Thomas 

Camp Tampa, Fla 

Cami) .laolisonville, Fla 

Camp Santiago, Ciilta 

Porto Ric()..l! 

Total 

~ 7833-^OL. 1— -12 



Regimental hos- 
pitals. 



Admis- 
sions. 



Deaths. 



85 
956 
653 

1,380 
55 

1,742 

58 

204 



5,133 



Field hospitals. 



Admis- 



24 

1,347 

80 

1,094 

212 

1, 825 

110 

343 



Deaths. 



74 

18 

227 

3 

25 



5, 041 



General hospitals. 



Admis- 
sions. 



450 
952 



G8 
381 



Deaths. 



3,596 



105 



57 
113 

65 



34 
374 



178 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF TTAR WITH SPAIN. 

From testimony presented it is probable that the number of cases was 
decidedly greater than reported, since there is good reason for believ- 
ing that at Camp Alger, and especially at Camp Thomas and in Florida, 
many cases diagnosticated and treated as malarial were really typhoid. 
The error of diagnosis was not made l)y all surgeons, but the opinions 
of those holding that the prevalent disease was not malarial were often 
received with scant favor by the medical officers highest in authority at 
the camps. In one instance, to which attention has been called, the 
surgeon in chief at Chickamauga, under a threat of court-martial, com- 
pelled a surgeon to retract his statement that typhoid fever was epi- 
demic, though in point of fact it was epidemic. 

The outbreak and prevalence of this disease may properly be attrib- 
uted to the combined operation of many causes. Large bodies of men 
who are not soldiers, under officers who have had little or no military 
training, can not be brought together and held for many weeks in camp 
and remain healthy. If the water supply is not abundant or is not 
good; if the thoroughly well-established rules of sanitation are not 
observed; if the discipline of the camp puts little restriction on drunk- 
enness and immorality; if the soldier does not know how to live and 
his officers do not watch him and teach him ; if his food is poorly cared 
for and badly cooked, and he is permitted to eat and drink anything 
and everything that he can find, sickness certainly will prevail. If, as 
at Camp Thomas, a regiment can go for ten days without digging sinks; 
if the sinks dug are not used or they quickly overflow and pollute the 
ground ; if i)racti(;ally no protection is afforded against the liquor sellers 
and prostitutes of neighboring places; if commands are crowded 
together and tents are seldom struck, or even never during the occu- 
pation of the camp ; if no one is called to account for repeated violation 
of sanitary orders, it can not but be that tyi^hoid fever once introduced 
will spread, rapidly, widely. 

How much may be accomplished by intelligent and watchful super- 
vision on the part of surgeons and regimental officers and the observ- 
ance of the well-established rules of camp sanitation is shown by the 
record of the Eighth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry at Camp 
Thomas. This regiment was for many weeks very healthy, while much 
sickness was occurring in regiments near by, though the conditions 
of camp site, of water, and of drill were practically the same. 

The responsibility for the conditions at Chickamauga rests upon those 
who assembled over 00,000 raw levies and kept the great mass of them 
together for weeks, and upon those whose duty it was to inspect, advise, 
and order— officers, medical and military, regimental, brigade, division, 
corps, and of the camp, and the higher the authority the greater the 
responsibility. 

Yellow fever, as it prevailed iu Cuba, was of mild type aud its mor- 
tality rate low. That its outbreak might have been prevented by the 
burning of all houses at Siboney, and by more comi^lete isolation of the 
Cuban and Spanish refugees is a question, but certainly the chances of 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



179 



avoiding the anticipated and miieli dreaded disease would have been 
increased had such measures been adopted. That it was kept out of 
our coast cities is due to the watchfulness of national and local quaran- 
tine officers and to the establishment and maintenance of a detention 
camp at Montauk. 

The wounded were comparatively few — 1,581. How many of these 
died has not as yet been ascertained, but all reports show that thei)er- 
ceutage of recovery was extraordinarily high, due to the combined influ- 
ences of small-caliber bullets, first-aid dressings, and skillful aseptic 
and antiseptic treatment. Major o])eratious were seldom required, 
the whole number of amputations, excisions, ligations, laparotomies, 
and trephinings reported being but 51.* Praise should be given to 

* Major surgical operations, United States Army, May to December, 1898. 

[Tho correct nuiubor of gimsliot and shell wound, incurred during the Spanish-American war ia 
1,581, as reported by the Adjutant-General of tho Army.] 

Total major operations 98 

Amputatious 34 

Hip joint 3 

Thigh 5 

Leg 10 

Foot 2 

Arm 12 

Arm (reamputated) 1 

Forearm 1 

Hernia (Bassini's 17) 18 

Appendicitis 15 

Laparotomy 9 

Bullet wound 4 

Intestinal obstruction 1 

Abdominal drainage I 

Not stated 3 

Urethrotomy 3 

Trephining 7 

Resection bones 3 

Resection veins - 1 

Neurorrhaphy (tibial nerves) 1 

Ligation, femoral 1 

Ligation, subclavian (aneurism) 1 

Floating cartilage 1 

Skin grafting 1 

Tracheotomy - 1 

Exsection, middle third of humerus 1 

Bullet removed from wall of bladder 1 

It must be noted that the number of operations reported as having been done dur- 
ing the advance against Santiago is undoubtedly considerably underestimated, 
since, in the press of work, record of tho surgical work then being performed was 
often impracticable. While the report of the field hospital, Fifth Army Corps, 
shows that 516 men were received in that hospital direct from the firing line, only 
seven of the cases so received are noted as having required operative surgical inter- 
ference. It would seem probable, therefore, that in several instances only such 
operations as were of special professional interest were made matters of recoi'd, 
although tli(i necessity for active operative treatment was largely abrogated by the 
humane character of the wounds and the maintenance of careful antisepsis. 



180 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

the well-trained, faithful, hard-working, and overworked surgeons, who, 
on the fighting line and in the hospitals, thoroughly discharged their 
duty, and who, as General Young has said, "deserve the thanks of the 
American people for their splendid work." 

The charge of neglect of the wounded, based upon the infrequent 
dressing of their wounds, has had no good basis, as it is an established 
rule of modern treatment that inspection and redressing are to be post- 
poned until there is observed either staining of the dressings or rise 
of temperature. Stated generally, the less it is disturbed the more 
quickly and kindly a wound heals. 

HOSPITALS. 

Each volunteer regiment as it came out had its hospital, as a rule, it 
is true, poorly equipped. By Circular No. 3, Surgeon- General's Office, 
May 18, such hospital was done away with, and in its place there was 
directed to be established one of maximum capacity of 200 beds for 
each division, to which should be sent all sick requiring treatment 
other than that which might be needed for slight injuries or such ail- 
ments as permitted of the continuance of full or at least ])artial duty. 
All regimental outfits were ordered turned in and used in the equip- 
ment of tlie hospital, medicines and dressings for minor aflectious 
treated in camp to be obtained from the hospital on requisition 
ai)proved by the division surgeon. As a brigade or division moved, 
a corresx^ondiug part or the whole of the hospital was to go with it; 
and, to insure ready mobility, no case that was very serious or likely 
to require prolonged treatment was to be kept in a division hospital, but 
sent to a general hospital. 

In theory the plan was a good one, as it permitted of more perfect 
classification of the sick, better attendance upon them with fewer 
doctors, and a more economical administration; as carried out it worked 
badly. Because of the scarcity of medical officers unconnected with 
regiments those so connected had to be detailed for hospital duty. 
Regimental pride was touched and strong opposition was at once 
made. Medical officers protested, commanding officers objected, and 
State authorities and the War Department were appealed to. The sick 
would not go to hospital as long as they could avoid it; the regimental 
surgeon would keep them as long as possible. The single medical 
officer on camp duty often found in the amount of work imposed reason 
for doing no more than was absolutely necessary. Field and comi)any 
officers largely made the excuse for neglect of sanitation that it was 
the medical officer's business to look after that and two-thu-ds of their 
doctors had been taken away from them. 

Brigade or regimental surgeons were put in charge of the hospitals 
as they were organized, wlio, as a rule, knew nothing of their duties at 
first and many could not or would not learn. Those assigned to ward 
duty often felt that such service was unbecoming the dignity of their 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 1,91 

rank. Of trained hospital stewards there were very few ; rarely did an 
attendant have any familiarity with the work of a nurse. Medicines, 
stores, tents, cots, and hospital furniture in general, were for a time 
obtained with difficulty and in insufficient quantities; in Camp Thomas 
this was largely true up to the last. Ultimately in most of the division 
hospitals a fair degree of order prevailed ; a few were excellently admin- 
istered. As the imperfections of the system became apparent and the 
hospitals overcrowded the reestablishment of regimental hospitals was 
liermitted. That the division-hospital plan may succeed there must be 
enough well-trained surgeons to fill the positions of officers in charge 
and executive officers, and a full number of competent medical men to 
discharge ward duties, and this without depleting the regiments. 

Nowhere else were the evils of the system and the unfortunate results 
of its application as strongly evidenced as at Camp Thomas, especially 
in the hospitals of the First Division of the First Corps and the Second 
Division of the Third Cori)s. These were almost always overcrowded; 
their officers in charge were frequently changed; their nurses were 
limited in number, and, generally, indifferent; their discipline was lax 
and their police bad. A large share of the responsibility for tlie exist- 
ing conditions rested upon the chief surgeons of camp and corps and 
the general officers in command of the same. These officers, medical 
and military, knew or should have known of the state of affairs, and 
knowing should have compelled a change. In the case of the hospital 
of the First Division of the First Corps, General Brooke did order the 
chief surgeon of the camp to personally take charge and put it in 
proper running order. Had well-trained surgeons of the regular estab- 
lishment been placed in charge of the Chickaraauga hospitals, even but 
for the time required to organize and set them going, the after history 
would have been different. Unfortunately it was thought that such 
surgeons could not be spared for the duty, though they could not have 
been better employed during the months of June and July. Further, 
it would appear that for want of medical inspectors and of due reports 
from the corps surgeons, the Surgeon- General was for a long time una- 
ware of the prevailing confusion and distress. 

General hospitals were established as became necessary at Key West, 
Fort McPherson, Fort Thomas, Fort Monroe, Chickamauga, and Wash- 
ington, and the post hospitals in New York Harbor, at the Presidio at 
San Francisco, and at Vancouver Barracks were so enlarged as to 
become, practically, general ones. Organized and administered by regu- 
lar officers, these hospitals were in large measure free from the troubles 
of the division hospitals. Comparatively few complaints were made of 
them, though some were for a time overcrowded, and up to the middle 
of July the nursing, mainly or wholly done by men of the hospital corps, 
was far from satisfactory. 

Large numbers of sick, after July 15, were sent to civil hospitals, 
chiefly in New York and Philadelphia, with resulting relief of pres- 



182 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN, 

sure upon tlie army hospitals and advantage to tlie sick, tbougli in 
many cases the condition of the patients transferred was such as should 
have prevented removal. The hospitals in New York also received 
many men on furlough from Montauk and elsewhere, who, on reaching 
that (;ity, proved to be physically unable to travel farther. 

vSo great was the number of furloughs granted in the earlier weeks 
after the signing of the protocol to sick and convalescents who wore 
not lit to leave the hospitals, that orders were issued establishing 
boards of medical officers, whose duty it was to carefully examine each 
and every applicant for furlough. Even then the evil was but partially 
corrected, for frequently men who seemed to be strong enough to safely 
leave, quickly broke down on the way to their homes. 

The sick at Montauk were so many, jiractically all the army that in 
August and September came back from Cuba, that the hospitals at that 
l^lace must be specially considered. The establishment of a receiving- 
camp, with necessary hospital accommodations, was determined upon 
late in July and the eastern end of Long' Island was selected as its site, 
because of isolation and healthfulness. In the first week of August 
measures were taken to prepare the camp. Before a hospital tent was 
up troops began to come in from Tampa and other places in the South, 
bringing a few sick with them. 

To send these men, over 4,000 in number, to a camp intended as one 
of recuperation for a large force almost completely broken down, was, 
medically considered, a mistake, as they would be unnecessarily ex- 
posed to any infectious diseases that might exist in camp. From an 
administrative point of view it was none the less so, since it increased 
the number of those who had to be provided with shelter and food. To 
make matters worse, several thousand horses and mules were sent at 
the same time, the supplying of which with forage added greatly to the 
transportation difliculties on the railroad and at the station. The 
transports from Cuba began coming in less than a week and the hospi- 
tals were not ready for the men. Though an enormous amount of work 
was done and the energies of all in charge strained to the utmost, it 
was for weeks a constant struggle to provide shelter for the sick, the 
number of whom was vastly in excess of that anticipated. Hospital 
tents were imt up as fast as they were received from the Quartermaster's 
Department, and that department, by the IGth of August, had at Mon- 
tauk 701 of them ready for issue, sufficient to shelter 4,000 men. Yet 
they did not actually reach the ground and were not put up fast enough, 
and many times it happened that the sick were at the hospital hours 
before tents were ready for them. 

Supplies were on hand in large quantities, furnished by the Govern- 
ment, by charitable organizations, and by jirivate individuals. Women 
nurses were present before any preparations had been made for their 
care, and they kept coming in rapidly. Doctors, commissioned and 
contract, were on duty, if not as early as they were needed, soon 
enough to prevent any serious neglect of the sick. The limited kitchen 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 183 

facilities of the early days were by the 21st of August supplemented 
by tlie establishment of a diet kitchen by ladies of the lied Cross 
Auxiliary and representatives of the Massachusetts Volunteer Aid 
Association. No laundry was in operation for a month and large quan- 
tities of soiled bedding, sheets, etc., were piled up, to be later burned. 
The sanitation was not that of a well-managed city hospital, but with 
all its defects it was not bad. Ward work was much interfered with 
by the crowds of visitors that were daily at the camp. Discipline was 
lax and there was no proper and efiScient hospital guard. Record 
keeping was imperfectly done and much trouble was caused both 
medical officers and friends of patients by the efibrts, often fruitless, 
to find particular soldiers known to be, or supposed to be, in the 
hospital. 

The time of the officer in charge and that of the executive ofiticer was 
largely taken up in attending to those who were asking, begging, 
demanding furloughs or discharges, and in preparing the necessary 
papers. Much delay, in some cases actual suffering and positive risk 
to life, were consequent ujion the methods adopted to put into the 
hand of the furloughed man his transportation order and ration money. 
Had these been furnished by a proiierly detailed line officer at the hos- 
pital, instead of at the railroad station, it would have been much better 
for those whose enfeebled condition made it hard for them to stand and 
wait. 

The history of these Montauk hospitals is the history not of careful, 
thorough preparation and smooth administration, but of hurried adap- 
tation to extraordinary demands. In less than sixty days after the 
time when the site of Camp Wikoff was a waste, over 10,000 sick had 
gone through the hospitals — general, detention, and division — over 
4,000 more had been examined, if not treated, at their regimental 
hospitals, and neither typhoid nor yellow fever had become epidemic 
in the camp. 

The hosi)itals established at a number of jilaces after the middle ol' 
August were well sui)plied and properly administered, and, so far as 
has been seen and heard, there were no good grounds for any comj)laints 
respecting the care of the sick in them. 

FEEDING THE SICK. 

Under regulations in force up to the 10th of August, special food sup- 
ply for the sick other than the condensed milk, beef extract, and tea, 
included among the hospital stores, could be secured only by purchase 
with the money of the hospital fund. As a consequence, as long as 
there was no fund, because of recent establishment of a hospital or fault 
in its management, very necessary articles of diet for the sick, includ- 
ing milk, as also ice, were obtained only by contribution or with money 
donated. Organized and individual charity furnished very liberally 
the articles required, but there were many complaints, and well-fbunded 
ones, too, that the sick weie not receiving such food and in such (^uan- 



184 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

tity as their condition domauded. Agaiu and again it was charged 
that there was actual starvation, but all testimony given, and it is in 
abundance, proves the charge unfounded. Typhoid cases, even up to 
the time of almost complete recovery, were kept, and properly so, on 
restri(;ted diet, largely fluid, and it was chiefly from these patients and 
non-medical persons seeing them that the com])laints came. In a lim- 
ited ijroportion of the severe malarial cases, food, if taken and retained, 
was imijerfectly assimilated and emaciation necessarily followed. Men 
no longer under hospital- treatment, but returned to their commands, 
who, though convalescent, were far from well (and this was the case 
with the vast majority of thosi brought north from Cuba), had to live 
on the army ration, except so far as company funds made possible the 
purchase of other supplies or they were furnished by those outside of 
the Army. 

To remedy the well-recoguized defects in number and variety of 
articles on the diet list for the sick, measures, at first local, then gen 
eral, were adopted to create a fund for the purchase of what might 
be needed. The Key West general hospital was on the 17th of May 
allowed 60 cents a day per man; a like allowance was on the 16th of 
June made for those on the hospital train, and on the 2d of August for 
the sick at Pablo Beach, Fla. In the early part of August 75 cents a 
day was allowed at Santiago. On the 10th of August, by General Orders, 
No, 116, Adjutant-General's Office, it was directed that at Montauk,at 
Pablo Beach, Fla., and at general hospitals, as also on hospital trains 
and on hospital transports, up to 60 cents per patient should be allowed 
in commutation of ration, to constitute a special fund, from which should 
be purchased the entire diet of the enlisted men while undergoing med- 
ical treatment. By General Orders, ISTo. 136, Adjutant-General's Office, 
of September 3, a similar allowance was made to those sick in post and 
field hospitals, and the letters and telegrams of the Commissary-Gen- 
eral show that it was the intention that every sick man, wherever he 
might be, in hospital or in quarters, should have the money allowance 
of the ration. 

There was some delay in pnttiug the new plan in operation, conse- 
quent in part upon nonreceipt of orders, in part upon the reluctance 
with which some medicalofticers, chiefly regimental, assumed increased 
pecuniary responsibilities, with associated vouchers and returns. As 
soon as this delay was over there was no more trouble about supplying 
the sick with proper diet and in full quantity. Indeed the fund created 
by the commutation of rations at the maximum amount allowed — 60 
cents — was not seldom found to be unnecessarily large. 

That the food supplied might be so prepared as to meet the wants of 
the various classes of sick, in addition to the regular kitchens, special 
diet ones were established in the general and later in the division hos- 
pitals, at Montauk even in the regiments, such kitchens being often 
under charge and supervision of ladies belonging to relief and aid 
societies in the vicinity. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 185 

TRANSrOK'l'ATION OF SIOK AND WOUNDED. 

Eecognizing the fact that if there should be a war with Spain mili- 
tary operations would be carried on in Cuba, and consequently sick 
and wounded brought back by sea, the Surgeon-General, early in April, 
urged the litting up of a hospital ship; but no action was taken at the 
time. Very soon after the declaration of war each of several ves- 
sels was insj)ected with reference to its fitness for use as a hospital 
transport. As no one could be secured under charter, the steamer John 
Englls Avas ijurchased ou the iSth of May. Plans for her fitting up 
were submitted, but for ten days or more held under consideration by 
the Quartermaster-General, the estimated cost being considered too 
great. 

It was not until the 4th of June that the work of preparing her was 
actually begun, under the supervision of Naval Constructor Bowles. 
Every effort was made to get the ship ready as quickly as possible, but 
it was the 2d of July before, as the hospital ship Beliefs she was able 
to leave New York for Cuba, carrying the regular supplies for twenty 
regiments for a half year and in addition a quantity of the more impor- 
tant medicines, stores, dressings, etc.; in all, an equipment of a 750-bed 
hospital for six months. Her outfit was most complete, more than 
$130,000 being spent upon it. Arriving at Siboney July 7, she dis- 
charged her cargo of over 700 tons weight, and ou the 19th of July k-ft 
with 135 wounded on board, who were in due time landed at New York. 
From this time on she has been in constant use, carrying sick and 
transporting medical sui)plies. 

As during the time in July that she was at Siboney sick and con- 
valescents were being shipped away on ordinary transports, not 
properly prepared for use as hospital vessels, and as when she left 
there was a large number of sick to be sent north as quickly as possi- 
ble, much complaint has been made that, though she could properly 
carry and care for 250, scarcely more than half that number of men 
were taken. Apparently a just complaint, in fact it was not such. 
Yellow fever was prevailing, and had the Relief taken cases of this 
disease and become infected, as probably she would have been, her 
usefulness as a hospital shij), for a considerable time at least, would 
have been at an end. To prevent such a conditiim occurring the sur- 
geon in charge decided, and wisely, too, that in view of an existing 
uncertainty of diagnosis he would not take any cases of fever of any 
kind, and therefore sailed with only a limited number of patients, all 
wounded. During the two months — July 15 to September 15 — the 
i?e?/e/' transported 1,234 sick, of whom 49 died, and 251 wounded, of 
whom 16 died. 

When the Fifth Corps left Tampa for Cuba the transport Olivette 
was set apart as a fioating hospital, being sui)plled with the outfit of a 
division hospital. Taking up the sick from tlie transports on route, 
after arrival at Siboney the wounded fiom the engagement of the 24th 



1S6 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

of Juue, and later patients from the sliore liospital, the Olivette sailed 
for New York on the 0th of -lul}'^ with 279 wounded. Returning to 
Santiago with a considerable qnantity of medical supplies, slie sailed 
again on the inth of August with 203 sick and convalescents, who were 
carried to Boston. On the 31st of August she sank at the wharf at 
Fernandina, Fla. 

A third steamer, the Missouri, tendered to the Government on the 
1st of July by Mr. B. N. Baker, was properly fitted up and late in 
August sent to Cuba, returning to Moutauk with 256 sick. She is still 
in service. 

By the liberality of the citizens of Boston and its vicinity the Massa- 
chusetts Volunteer Aid Association was enabled to well equip a hospital 
ship, the Bay State, which proved to be of great value in transporting 
a large amount of medicines and stores furnished by the society, and 
in bringing back sick from Santiago and Porto Eico, 33G in luimber, of 
whom only 4 died. This vessel, for which the Massachusetts Vol- 
unteer Aid Association paid $50,000 purchase price, and 1113,000 for 
outfit, was employed to the great advantage of the sick, as well as of 
the Medical Department of the Army, until November 15, when she 
was sold to the Government. 

TRANSPORTS. 

The unexpectedly large number of wounded, the severe sickness that 
rapidly developed, and the fear of and actual outbreak of yellow fever, 
made it necessary in Cuba to early and frequently send oft* hospital 
patients and convalescents, the large proportion of them on ordinary 
transports. Much and at times very serious complaint was made of 
the unfitness of the vessels, of their lack of cleanliness and sanitary 
provision, the bad quality of the water supplied, and the want of doc- 
tors, nurses, medicines, and hospital stores. 

From evidence submitted, the conclusion must be reached that 
many of the complaints were well founded. Inspection of ships at 
Sibojiey and Santiago prior to the establishment of a board on August 4 
was imperfectly made, if made at all. Overcrowding there was, at 
times not because of putting on board too large a number of sick, but 
because convalescents and supi^osedly well men while in transit fell 
sick in unexpectedly large proportion. On some of the ships numbers 
of civilians were eitlier permitted to take passage or managed to get on 
board shortly before the sailing, their presence, unprovided for, adding 
largely to the difficulties of caring for the sick. Doctors and nurses 
were few, but there was only a small number of them that could be 
spared from service on shore. Much of the time in the earlier weeks 
there was great scarcity of medicines and stores with the troops; as a 
consequence little conld be supplied to those on shipboard. 

Further, and most important, it was believed by all in authority, 
military and medical, that in view of expected engagements, later of the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



1«7 



danger of yellow fever, and all the while of tlie extreme debility of the 
men, it was highly desirable that every sick or wounded soldier should 
be sent away as soon as possible, even at the cost of a few days' incon- 
venience, or it might be actual privation. 

So far as related to the tittiug up of the 24 transport vessels employed 
in this transfer of sick and wounded from Cuba, their cleanliness and 
water supply, the responsibility for any existing deficiencies rested 
upon the Quartermaster's Department; while upon the Medical T3epart- 
ment was the responsibility for want of food supplies and medicines, 
for lack of doctors or nurses, and for any avoidable failures to properly 
care for the sick. 

Both departments have found excuse in tbe conditions prevailing at 
Tampa and in Cuba. But these conditions could not excuse every- 
thing, e. g., the not haviug fresh sweet water, or sending men on board 
without proper clothing and without knives, forks, spoons, and plates. 

To two transports in particular, the Seneca and the Concho, general 
attention was strongly drawn by reports published soon after the arri- 
val of the vessels at Xew York. The facts were as stated — the ships 
had too many sick, and the sick had not euough doctors and nurses; 
medicines and supplies were in insufficient amount; beds and bedding 
neither in quantity nor quality were such as the sick should have had; 
the water supply was not pure and fresh. But it must be remembered 
that a large number of those on board were at the time of leaving 
Cuba thought to be able to care for themselves and not to need any 
medical attention, and all such men were by law entitled to only the 
ordinary ration. Again, it is in evidence that there were many more 
passengers on the.se vessels, officers, civilians, employees, etc., than 
were ])ut on board by medical officers to be provided for by the Medical 
Dei)artment. 

RAILROAD AMBULANCE TRAIN. 

On the 16th of June a well-appointed hospital train of Pullman — later 
tourist — sleepers and service cars was put on the road, and remained 
in constant use thereafter. Its full carrying capacity was 270, and 
under careful management it proved of great value in transferring sick 
from camps and division hospitals to various general hospitals. In 
two and a half months it had carried nearly 2,000 patients, with but 4 
deaths en route. 

AMBtTLANCES. 

As far as can be determined, full regulation supply of ambulances 
was not provided, certainly not for many weeks after the troops were 
assembled in camps. At most places no serious consequences resulted, 
as there were enough to answer the requirements. 

At Montank, where in time there were 48, only about half of them, 
perhaps, in good working order, more would have been of service and 
should have been on hand; but in Cuba, where they were really 



1R8 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

needed, ambulances were almost wholly wanting. When the Fifth 
Corps was ready to leave Tampa, the Medical Department had a fully 
equipped train of 40. By command of Major-General Shafter it was 
left behind, and the expedition landed with only 3 ambulances, 10 
more being received some days later, after the fights of the 1st and 2d 
of July. The result was that at first transportation was lacking for 
what supplies were gotten on shore, the medical wants of the troops 
were not as well satisfied as the material on hand would have per- 
mitted, and a large number of wounded were subjected to unnecessary 
hardship and suffering. It should be remembered, however, that the 
roads between the fighting line and the base hospitals were such that 
the moving of wounded in ambulances would have been hardly less 
trying and painful than it was in wagons. 

GENERAL CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS. 

To sum up, in brief, the evidence submitted shows: 

1. That at the outbreak of the war the Medical Department was, in 
men and materials, altogether unprepared to meet the necessities of the 
army called out. 

2. That as a result of the action through a generation of contracted 
and contracting methods of administration, it was impossible for the 
Department to operate largely, freely, and without undue regard to 
cost. 

3. That in the absence of a special corps of inspectors, and the 
api)arent inlrequency of inspections by chief surgeons, and of oflicial 
reports of the state of things in camps and hospitals, there was not 
such investigation of the sanitary conditions of the army as is the 
first duty imposed upon the Department by the regulations. 

4. That the nursing force during the months of May, June, and Julj'' 
was neither amj^le nor efficient, reasons for which may be found in the 
lack of a proper volunteer hospital corps, due to the failure of Congress 
to authorize its establishment, and to the nonrecognition in the begin- 
ning of the value of women nurses and the extent to which their 
services could be secured. 

5. That the demand made upon the resources of the Department in 
the care of sick and wounded was very much greater than had been 
anticipated, and consequently, in like proportion, these demands were 
imperfectly met. 

6. That powerless as the Department was to have supplies trans- 
ferred from point to point, except through the intermediation of the 
Quartermaster's Department, it was seriously crippled in its efforts to 
fulfill the regulation duty of "furnishing all medical and hospital 
supplies." 

7. That the shortcomings in administration and operation may justly 
be attributed, in large measure, to the hurry and confusion incident to 
the assembling of an army of untrained oflicers and men, ten times 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



189 



larger than before, for which no preparatious in advance had been 
or could be made because of existing rules and regulations. 

8. That notwithstanding all the manifest errors, of omission rather 
.than of commission, a vast deal of good work was done by medical ofti- 
cers, high and low, regular and volunteer, and there were unusually 
few deaths among the wounded and the sick. 

What is needed by the medical department in the future is — 

1. A larger force of commissioned medical oflBcers. 

2. Authority to establish in time of war a proper volunteer hospital 
corps. 

3. A reserve corps of selected trained women nurses, ready to serve 
when necessity shall arise, but, under ordinary circumstances,, owing 
no duty to the War Department, except to report residence at deter- 
mined intervals. 

4. A year's supply for an army of at least four times the actual 
strength, of all such mediciues, hospital furniture, and stores as are not 
materially damaged by keeping, to be held constantly on hand in the 
medical supply depots. 

5. The cliarge of transportation to such extent as will secure prompt 
shipment and ready delivery of all medical supplies. 

6. Tlie simplification of administrative "paper work," so that medical 
officers may be able to more thoroughly discharge their sauitary and 
strictl}^ medical duties. 

7. The securing of such legislation as will authorize all surgeons in 
medical charge of troops, hospitals, transports, trains, and independent 
commands to draw from the Subsistence Department funds for the pur- 
chase of such articles of diet as may be necessary to the proper treat- 
ment of soldiers too sick to use the army ration. This to take the 
place of all commutation of rations of the sick now authorized. 

Convalescent soldiers traveling on furlough should be furnished 
transportation, sleeping berths or staterooms, and 1 1.50 per diem for 
subsistence in lieu of rations, the soldier not to be held accountable or 
chargeable for this amount. 

PAY DEPARTMENT. 

BRia. GEN. T. H. STANTON, PAYMASTER-GENERAL, U. S. A., IN CHARGE. 

The Pay Department has charge of the su[)ply and distribution of 
and accounting for funds for the payment of the Army, and such other 
tiiiancial duties as are especially assigned to it. 

Previous to the declaration of war, ])ayments were made to the Army 
by check and in currency sent by express. After the organization of 
the volunteer force it was not found practicable to pay by this method, 
consequently all payments in the field were made by paymasters in 
person, in cash, which has required an immense amount of work, as 
the troops have been scattered over two hemispheres. 

The corps of paymasters was increased by seventy-two, and these 



lOO INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

officers and their clerks entered the service with little or no knowledge 
of army accounts. A school of instruction was organized, in which 
each was made familiar with tlie necessary forms to be used in pay- 
ments, and the principles of making and rendering' accounts; and as a* 
result each ofticer entered upon his duties with a fair knowledge of the 
business before him. This preparation has enabled the trooi^s to be 
paid promptly and intelligently, resulting in fewer errors than would 
otherwise have occurred. 

The principal delay in the payment of trooj)S was in Cuba and Porto 
Rico. In Cuba the colonels of some of tlie regiments did not desire 
their regiments jiaid there, and Major-General Shatter, commanding 
the army there, approved their requests. The Pay Department had in 
Cuba ]1 paymasters and $1,500,000, and paid about one-third of the 
United States forces on that island, the other two-thirds being paid 
after their arrival at Montauk. There has been complaint made as 
to the i^ayment of the army in Porto Rico. Ten i)aymasters, with 
$1 ,500,000, were sent there. They were stopped at Santiago, and Major- 
General Miles, Commanding the Army, telegraphed not to have them 
sent to Porto Rico, as the money might be infected, although it had 
never been landed from the vessels. 

In view of this request it was decided not to send these funds to Porto 
Rico, and new paymasters and new money were sent from ]^ew York to 
make the i)ayments to troops there; this caused the delay of which 
complaint was made. Except as above, there have been no complaints 
X3resented to the commission against this department, and it is evident 
that for the nonpayment of troops it was not in any instance primarily 
responsible. The Paymaster-General testified that there was no time 
during the continuance of the war at which he did not have the money 
and the officers ready and willing to pay in accordance with law and 
the customs of the service. So far as the commission can ascertain, 
all the officers of the Pay Department have jjerformed their duties 
promptly and efficiently. 

THE ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, AND CORPS OF ENGINEERS. 

BUia. GEN. JOHN M. WILSON, CHIEF OF ENGINEERS U. S. A., IN 

CHARGE. 

The Corps of Engineers is charged with the improvement of rivers 
and harbors; construction, care, and operation of canals; construction 
and maintenance of works of defense, including the operation of sub- 
marine mines; the construction and repair of light-houses, and numer- 
ous other special and minor duties. 

At the outbreak of the war the Corps of Engineers consisted of 109 
officers and a battalion of engineer soldiers organized into four com- 
panies, with a maximum authorized strength of 500 enlisted men, 
although the maximum legal strength was 15'2, organized into five 
companies. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 



191 



GUN AND MORTAR BATTERIES. 

The i)ossibility of war impressed itself so fully upon the chief of this 
corps that on .January "25, 1808, all officers having^ charge of the con- 
struction of seacoast defenses were directed to mount, as rapidly as 
l)0ssible, all guns and carriages then on hand or received later, even if 
it should be at the disadvantage of incomplete work, the object being 
to have the guns available for service. The carrying out of these 
instructions entailed considerable hardships and inconveniences in the 
North Atlantic forts, where snow to a great depth covered the ground. 
Every effort was made during the ensuing two months to get in place 
every possible piece of ordnance that could be obtained for the batter- 
ies at that time under construction. 

The first allotment for coast-defense purjioses from the appropria- 
tion for national defense was made March 17, 1898, and amounted to 
$2,975,000, of which all but $250,000 was devoted to the construction 
of additional gun batteries. Telegraphic orders for the construction 
of these works were issued the same day, and in several instances 
ground was broken the day following. Additional allotments were 
made from time to time from the appropriation for national defense for 
the construction of additional gun batteries, both permanent and 
temporary. 

A summary of the work accomi)lished in the construction of gun and 
mortar batteries during the period of the war is as follows, the first 
table giving the condition of the permanent seacoast armament prior 
to the outbreak of hostilities, the second the condition August 1, 1898: 





12-iiich. 


lO-inch. 


8-iiich. 


Mortars. 


Tlapid- 
flre. 




10 
5 
9 


44 

32 

6 


9 

22 
2 


88 
72 
72 







5 




4 








Total 


24 


82 ! 33 


232 


9 











II. 

Armament in place 

Ready for armament 

Under construction 

Total 



16 


70 


35 


144 


27 


28 


7 


64 


37 


19 


22 


104 


80 


117 


64 


312 



79 



In addition to the permanent armament, temporary batteries for old- 
type rifled and smoothbore seacoast guns and for modern siege guns 
and for modern 8-inch B. L. rifles on improvised carriages were erected 
at various points either w^holly defenseless or deficient in armament. 
Seventy-five emplacements of this character were built and armed dur- 
ing the war at 21 ditierent harbors. 



15)2 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
SUBMARINE-MINE DEFENSES. 

On March 28 the following iustructions to all officers of the Corps of 
Engineers in charge of tori^edo defenses were issued: 

Offick of the Chief of Engineers, United States Army, 

Washington, March :?S, ISOS. 

Sir: I have the honor to request that you will endeavor to organize a corps of 
about 120, more or less, patriotic citizens, who, without promise of ihuj, will he ready to 
give yon their services in case of a sudden emergency nnder which immediate action 
may be demanded. 

These citizens should consist of expert electricians, civil engineers, machinists, 
telegraph and telephone experts, steam fitters, caljle men, in fact men who are will- 
ing to aid in an emergency, and whose youth, brains, and mechanical ingenuity 
will be of great help to you in a crisis. 

This corps should l)e organized into convenient divisions, according to the class of 
work to be performed, such as land telegraph or telephone work, submarine-mine 
work, expert electrical work, etc. 

The divisions should be further organized into convenient squads with regard to 
further classihcation of work. 

The divisions and squads should be assigned to the charge of the most expert and 
capable men as commanders. 

A scheme of this kind already put in operation covers four divisions of four squads, 
each classified according to the nature of the work, and embracing all branches of 
electrical and steam engineering work and of signal work. 

You are also requested to endeavor to have this organization, at its own expense, 
equip itself with tools ready for an emergency, everything boxed for a sudden move- 
ment, and you are also requested to find out just where you can place your hands 
upon all materials necessary for equipping and working the mines now under your 
control, and assisting in the defense of the various harbors in the engineering dis- 
trict under your charge. 

Arrangements of this character have been made for one or two of the most 
important districts, and it is hoped that you may be able to accomplish something 
of the same character. 

Far more is now expected of the Corps of Engineers than ever before, and even 
with the very limited funds and materials at its command I am satisfied that it will 
be able to accomplish important results when the crisis comes. 

Upon receipt of a telegram from me to go ahead, you will be authorized to make 
purchases of materials required and to employ such persons as are necessary, and I 
will endeavor to get an allotment for payments. 

Your rolls should fully cover the name, character of employment, rate of pay, and 
time of all persons who may aid you when called upon. 
Very respectfully, 

John M. Wilson, 
Brigadier-General, Chief of Engineers, U. S. Army. 

At the outbreak of the war there was on hand at various harbors a 
fairly sufficient number of mine cases and of operating casemates, but 
practically no cable, explosives, operating apparatus, search lights, or 
any of the multitude of minor articles necessary for successfully plant- 
ing and operating the mines. An allotment of $250,000 from the 
appropriation for national defense, made March 17, 1898, was applied 
at once, under telegraphic orders, to tlie purchase and distribution 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 193 

of the most necessary articles of torpedo material, especially cable. 
Peucling" the acquisition of sufficient standard material, the following 
instructions, under date of April 3, were issued for torpedo harbor 
defenses. 

Headquarters Corps of Engineers, United States Army, 

Washimjton, April 3, 1808. 

Sir : The emcrgeucj' which has been auticipated appears to be almost upon us. 

I received yesterday an allotment of funds for torpedo service, aud at once ordered 
by telegraph the purchase of materials; it will probably take three months to obtain 
what will be needed for one-fourth of our coast Hue. 

In the meantime you must make the best possible torpedo tlefense for the harljors 
in your charge, with the materials in hand and such temporary expedients as you 
can devise. 

You can telegraph Major Knight * asking when he can fivruish what is absolutely 
necessary to complete the system, so far as the mines you have available are con- 
cerned; and if his reply does not indicate that you can get them in a week or ten 
days then you are authorized to purchase whatever is absolutely necessary in open 
market wherever you can obtain it, reporting purchases aud cost to this office. 

You are requested to commence, on receipt of this letter, jn-eparations for jilanting 
mines and to go as far as possible in your work without interfering immediatelj' 
with main channels; you are authorized to (employ all necessary help, to adopt tem- 
porary expedients of any kind deemed jiroper by you, and to understand that all 
necessary power and responsibility, so far as law and regulations will admit, are 
now committed to you. 

Be as economical as iiossible, and remember that there are numerous harbors 
besides those in your charge, in regard to which similar orders will bo sent. 

It is not the fault of the Corps of Engineers that we are not fully prepared, but it 
will be its fault and that of each district officer in case we do not at once take 
advantage of the limited means now at our command. 

I requested yesterday that orders be sent to Willets Point to send to you noncom- 
missioned officer and privates to aid you in your torpedo work. I would gladly send 
more, but already over one-third of the battalion baa been named for these details. 

Use every effort in this emergency; arrange for boats; set up operating apparatus 
in casemates; arrange mooring anchors; lay your cables and junction boxes; pre- 
pare your compound plugs; get your mines ready; purchase what is absolutely 
necessary for the mines yotr now have that you can not procure at once from Major 
Knight; extemporize temporary mines, employ all the help you want, but go ahead 
and show what the Corps of Engineers can do when an emergency arises for which 
our country is unprepared. 

Very respectfully, John M. Wilson, 

CMef of Engineers, U. S. Army. 

It was the foresight indicated by these letters that enabled the corps 
so prom j)tly to protect our principal harbors with proper torpedo defense, 
which had great effect in satisfying the commercial interests of the 
conntry that they were safe from successful attack. 

April 21 the order to plant mines was given, and by the close of the 
month practically nearly every harbor of importance was defended by 
at least a preliminary line of mines, the material of which, in part, had 
to be improvised from local sources. 

The purchase and shipment of standard submarine-mine apparatus 

* The officer in charge of the torpedo depot at Willets Point, N. Y. 
7833— VOL. 1 13 



194 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

of all kinds were pushed with the greatest possible energy, and the tM*- 
pedo lines at each harbor were constantly extended, improved, and 
maintained. The conditions under which some of this work was carried 
on, particularly in the early stages, were most trying, unusually stormy 
and cold weather prevailing and rendering workou the water disagree- 
able and hazardous. In connection with the submarine-mine defenses 
it was necessary to i^rescribe special regulations for the navigation of 
friendly vessels and to maintain a tleet of patrol boats to enforce them. 
Owing to the deficiency in a trained personnel, it was practicable to 
assign only a few engineer soldiers to each harbor, the total number 
distributed to some 25 haubors being 150. Iveliauce was largely placed 
upon civilian electricians, mechanics, and laborers. This civilian force 
was organized in part from volunteers prior to the time when funds 
became available. 

Among the principal items of torpedo material purchased during 
the war may be named 44 search lights, 150 tons exidosives, 400 miles 
cable, 1,650 mine cases, 1,500 compound plugs, 17 sets operating appa- 
ratus, besides a vast multitude of minor miscellaneous articles, weighing 
in the aggregate many hundred tons. 

In consequence of the destruction of the Spanish fleet under Admiral 
Cervera and the signing of the protocol, the work of clearing harbors 
and channels of the mines was commenced early in August and restric- 
tions upon commerce removed as rapidly as possible. 

EQUIPMENT OF ENGINEER TROOPS. 

On April 16 orders were sent to prepare all available pontoon material 
for a sudden call, and on Aj^ril 29 the entire available equipment at 
Willets Point and West Point embarked for Florida with Company E, 
battalion of engineers. All available intrenching tools were sent at 
the same time. For many years, for want of funds, the pontoons and 
intrenching material at the engineer depot had been steadily deterio- 
rating, so that the amount available on the first call was barely equal to 
the demand. Allotments of $10,000 and $3,000 from appropriation for 
national defense were made April 20 and May 4 and at once applied to 
increasing the stock of pontoon material and intrenching tools. The 
various deficiency acts subsequently passed rendered available addi- 
tional funds for equipment of engineer troops, and the Department was 
at all times able to respond promptly to every requisition for sup- 
plies. An additional bridge train was sent to Tampa for use of the 
expeditionary force, and a large assortment of intrenching tools, special 
tools, drawing and surveying instruments and materials were issued 
during the period of the war. 

ENGINEER BATTALION. 

As stated above, the authorized enlisted strength of the Engineer 
Battalion pyior to hostilities was 500 men, organized into four com- 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 195 

pauies. Owing to the diplomatic situation it was deemetl juadent to 
represent tlie advisability of increasing tlie strength of the battalion 
to its maximum legal strength, viz, 750, and application was accord- 
ingly made March 21. Under date of April 4 the Secretary of War 
authorized the enlistment of 202 additional men and one additional 
company, making the strength of the battalion 702. Subsequently the 
act of Congress for increasing the Kegular Army in time of war brought 
the strength of the battalion to 752. Two companies, of 100 men each, 
accompanied the expedition to Cuba and rendered valuable service 
with the Army. One company of about 125 men was dispatched to 
Manila, P. I. The remainder were emjjloyed on the torpedo defenses 
and at the engineer depot, Willets Point, assisting in the shipment of 
the torpedo material and material for equipment of engineer troops. 

Wherever officers of this corps have been assigned to duty the testi- 
mony shows that they have acted with great promptness and to the 
great benefit of the service. The testimony of commanding officers of 
campaigns, troops, and camps has been in high praise of the services 
of the Corps of Engineers. This commendation has been because of 
the efficient preparations made before the beginning of the war with 
Spain for any emergency, the energy displayed by the officers of the 
Department and the esprit de corps that permeates the entire force. 

ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT. 

BKIGr. GEN. D. W. FLAGLEK, CHIEF OF OEDNANCE, U. S. A., IN CHARGE. 

The duties of the Ordnance Department are, procuring, by purchase 
or manufacture, and distributing the necessary ordnance and ordnance 
supplies for the Government, and the establishment and maintenance 
of arsenals and depots for their manufacture and safe-keeping. 

At the beginning of the war the Ordnance Corps consisted of 1 brig- 
adier geneval, 3 colonels, 4 lieutenant-colonels, 10 majors, 22 captains, 
14 first lieutenants, 1 ordnance storekeeper with rank of major, 1 ord- 
nance storekeeper with rank of captain, 104 ordnance sergeants and 
488 enlisted men. The act of Congress approved July 8, 1898, added 
to the regular establishment 1 colonel, 1 lieutenant-colonel, 2 majors, 2 
cai)tains, and 6 first lieutenants, and authorized the appointment of a 
chief ordnance officer with the rank of lieutenant-colonel for each army 
corps, and a chief ordnante officer with the rank of major for each 
division organized. 

This increase was not large enough to furnish the officers needed by 
the Department for the discharge of the greatly increased duties. It 
must be borne in mind that the efficient ordnance officer is a specialist 
who must be trained by experience and can not be improvised. 

The work of the department was, of course, greatly increased by 
the war with Spain. W en it was seen that war was i)robable the 
necessity of a rapid completion of the system of coast defenses was at 



196 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

once appreciated. The Ordnauce Department, in connection with the 
Engineer Department, made strennous efforts to provide for defenses 
needed, the first steps being taken in February before any appropria- 
tion was available. From the 9th of March the work of completing the 
armament for the coast defenses was pushed with all possible dispatch, 
night shifts being employed, the force increased at the gun factory, and 
the completion of guns and forgings hastened. 

J^ot much could be done to hasten the deliveries of the larger seacoast 
guns, the time required for manufacturing the forgings and the finish- 
ing and assembling of the guns being too great. Attempts were made 
to induce the manufacturers who had contracts for mortars to expedite 
their work. Five additional lO-inch guns were obtained from the Beth- 
lehem Iron Company under their contract. 

The manufacture of carriages could be hastened and proper steps 
were taken to complete those necessary for the guns on hand and in 
process of manufacture. With rapid-fire guns it was possible to 
accomplish more, and they were purchased as fast as satisfactory 
offers to furnish them could be obtained from American and foreign 
manufacturers. 

When war seemed imminent the supply of powder and projectiles on 
hand for coast defense was inadequate. Manufacturers of these were 
conferred with and the necessities of the nation explained to them, the 
result being that they increased their plants, and in some cases employed 
outside establishments, thus multiplying their capacity. 

The results of all these attemps to rush the completion of the coas 
defenses, in its various ordnance branches, was, as had been foreseen, 
inadequate. The making of heavy guns, mortars, carriages for the same, 
and the projectiles necessary for their use requires plants whose instal- 
lation is a matter of time. These once installed and in working order, 
the time required for the necessary work is so long and the difticulties 
inherent in the manufacture so great that a large increase in the out- 
put can not suddenly be made. 

The experience of the late war supports what has been so often said 
by the ordnance specialists, that the coast defense of the country must 
be provided for before an emergency arises. 

The details as to the supplies of ordnance and ordnance stores on 
hand at the beginning of the war are given in the replies of the Chief 
of Ordnance to the inquiries of the commission. 

SMALL ARMS. 

On April 1, 1898, the small arms with which the Army was provided 
was the rifie and carbine, caliber .30, and revolver, caliber .38. 
There were on hand April 1 : 

Rifles, caliber .30 53,508 

Carbines, caliber .30 14,875 

Kevolvers, caTiber .38 4,517 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 197 

There were received up to September 1 : 

Rifles, caliber .30 26,728 

Carbines, caliber .30 1, 140 

Revolvers, caliber .38 5, 850 

And there were issued to troops up to September 1: 

Rifles, caliber .30 53,571 

Reinaiuiug on hand 27, 665 

Carbines, caliber .30 11, 715 

Remaining on band 4, 300 

Revolvers, caliber .38 ., 9,515 

Remaining on hand 8.52 

The National Guard was armed largely with the S. B. L. rifle aud 
carbiue, caliber .45, and revolver, caliber .45. Of these there were on 
hand, received, and issued up to September 1 as follows : 



On hand 
Apr. 1. 



Received. 



Issued. 



On band 
Sept. 1. 



Rifles, caliber .45 

Carbines, caliber .45.. 
Revolvers, caliber .45 



265, 895 
7,983 
1,645 



3,526 



84, 391 
3,276 
13, 363 



185, 030 

4,705 
4,582 



The volunteers were, with few exceptions, provided with the Spring- 
field B. L. rifle and carbiue, caliber .45, and the caliber ,45 revolver, as 
the Department did not have on hand enough caliber .30 arms for the 
purpose; nor could it manufacture them fast enough to supply the 
demand. The manufacture was hastened, and as the arms were fur- 
nished the volunteers were supplied with them, there being put in their 
hands up to December 8,110,000 rifles and carbines, caliber .30. 

The putting of the caliber .45 rifle in the hands of troops has beeu 
much criticised during and since the war. It was done because there 
was need of immediately arming them, and as the country did not pos- 
sess the requisite number of the caliber .30 rifles the weapons on hand 
had to be used. Further, in the opinion of certain general officers, the 
caliber .45 rifle, with smokeless powder, was more destructive than the 
caliber .30 arm, and was a simpler, less comijlicated weapon. 

At the beginning of the war the Regular Army was furnished with 
small-arms ammunition iu which the smokeless powder was used, all 
the caliber .30 ammunition being of this character. The Ordnance 
Department had been for two or three years exijerimeuting on powder 
for the caliber .45 cartridge and had succeeded in finding what it 
wanted, but as the cai)acity for making such })owder in this country is 
limited, the first efforts were directed toward supplying a sufficient 
amount of it for the ammunition for the caliber .30 arm. The Chief of 
Ordnance testifies that in about two months he was able to get it for 
the .45-caliber cartridge from private manufacturers, and after this time 
it was used iu the making of nearly all the caliber ,45 ammunition. 



198 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The troops armed with the caliber .45 rifle at the time of the engage- 
ments at Santiago had black powder, as also had those in Porto Rico 
and the Philippine Islands. In the fights about Santiago the use of 
black powder was severely condemned by the officers in command. 
The smoke located the position of the troops. The men armed with 
the caliber .45 rifle and using the black powder were withdrawn from 
the actions on the 1st and 2d of July. The light batteries at Santiago 
also had black powder at the engagements of July 1 and 2, and it was 
found tliat the smoke of the discharges made an excellent mark for 
the enemy's artillery fire. 

The advantages of smokeless powder were fully understood by the 
Ordnance Department, and the initial steps were taken for its use with 
both small arms and artillery. The ammunition for field guns in the 
hands of troops and in store at the beginning of the war was black 
powder, because It was on hand and economy required that it should 
be used tor peace purposes. When the war came the Department was 
unable to at once furnish smokeless powder for the field guns, but the 
manufacture of it was promptly begun, and in a short time a supply of 
it was available. 

For the troops armed with the caliber .45 rifle— and these were, as 
has been stated, practically all the volunteers— so little ammunition 
was supplied up to the middle of July that not even ten black-powder 
cartridges per man could be issued for target practice. 

EQUIPMENT. 

The Department did not have on hand at the beginning of the war 
any large supply of infantry, cavalry, artillery, and horse equipments. 
The buildings for a plant for their manufacture had.been erected at liock 
Island Arsenal, but the plant itself had not been installed through fail- 
ure to obtain the necessary appropriation. 

In the first issues of equipments to troops there was some delay 
caused by the lack of proper plant for their manufacture, and as they 
were not on the market as articles of commerce they could not be pur- 
chased at once. Steps were immediately taken to correct the evil ; the 
plant was installed at Eock Island Arsenal, and the number of employees 
there increased from 400 on April 13 to 2,900 on August 31. At this 
latter date the Department was turning oat 6,000 sets of infantry equip- 
. ments per day. 

An element in the production of delay at first in issuing equipment 
to the volunteer troops was the fact that many sets of such equipments 
had been issued to the National Guard of the several States. These 
were reported as serviceable, and when the National Guard was called 
out as volunteers it was presumed they would be properly equipped 
from the stores in the liands of the State authorities. It was found, 
however, that a large proportion of these stores were not in fit condi- 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 11)9 

tion for field service, and tliey had to be replaced, thus making an 
unexpected call upon the resources of the Department. 

The greatest diiiiculty and confusion in the supply of equipment to 
the troops was experienced at Camp Thomas. The chief of ord- 
nance had recommended the establishment of a depot at that place, but 
his recommendation was not complied with, the general commanding 
the camp not concurring because of the proximity of the arsenal at 
Columbia. Tenn., which arsenal, however, was soon used for other pur- 
poses. Had such depot been established the confusion and delays in 
the matter of equipment of the troops there would undoubtedly have 
been much lessened. 

SUMMARY. 

The testimony before the conmiissiou shows that the Ordnance Depart- 
ment was untiring in its work both before and during the war, and that 
every effort was made by its officers to properly arm and equip the 
troops. The delays that occurred were none of them of serious import, 
and it was beyond the power of the Department to prevent them. 

The great work of this department must be done in times of peace 
before war comes. Guns, mortars, carriages, small arms, ammunition, 
and equipments must be decided upon in advance, the plants for their 
production established, and a supply accumulated sufficent for the 
probable needs of the country. There is no time after war is declared 
in which to make this provision. It is a great work, requiring careful 
study and investigation on the part of the officers, a wide compre- 
hension as to the probable needs of the country, and the disbursing of 
large sums of money. The work of preparing for war can be done no 
faster than appropriations will permit, and a very important duty of 
the Chief of Ordnance is submitting to Congress the proper recommen- 
dations and estimates for appropriations to carry on the work of his 
department in the best manner. 

The testimony before the commission shows that the Ordnance 
Department had in the past fully appreciated the situation ; that it 
had so far as lay in its power provided for the contingency of war; 
that its chief had placed before Congress the necessary data to enable 
that body to Judge knowingly of the needs of the department to do its 
appointed work; that he had in his recommendations as to the dis- 
tribution of money appropriated anticipated the conditions which war 
would bring, had urged that the making of guns and carriages might 
take precedence of that of other articles which require less time to 
manufacture, and that the necessary plants might be established to 
meet the demands that would immediately follow a declaration of war. 

RECOMMENDATIONS. 

The commission would urge that — 

1. An amount of arms, ammunition, and equipments should be kept 



200 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

coiistautly in store to secure the prompt outfitting' of any force that 
may reasonably be expected to be suddenly called out. 

2. That the shops at the various arsenals, esijecially those at Rock 
Island, should be thoroughly equipped for any work that they may be 
required to do, and maintained in a condition of comiilete preparation. 

THE SIGNAL CORPS. 

BRIG. GEN. A. W. GRBELY, CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, U. S. A., IN CHARGE. 

The Chief Signal Officer is charged, under the Secretary of War, 
with the direction of the Signal Bureanj with the control of the officers, 
enlisted men, and employees attached thereto 5 with the construction, 
repair, and operation of military telegraph lines; with the supervision 
of such instruction in military signaling and telegraphy as may be 
prescribed in orders from the War Department; with the procurement, 
preservation, and distribution of the necessary suppHes for the corps. 
He has charge of all military signal duties, and of books, papers, and 
devices connected therewith, including telegraph and telephone appara- 
tus and the necessary instrnments for target ranges and other military 
uses; of collecting and transmitting information for the Army, by tele- 
graph or otherwise, and all other duties pertaining to military signaling. 

On account of the very meager appropriation to this branch of the 
service prior to the commencement of hostilities, this corps was not in 
condition for war. General Greely says that " the approach of the 
war found eight available officers and fifty men of the Signal Corps 
widely scattered — from Oregon to Texas on the south and New York 
on the east. There were not more than two men at any station, and 
only $800 was available for war expenses." 

For the amount of work to be done, and done promptly, there was no 
department in the Army so utterly helpless as the Signal Corps. This 
condition of affairs was not its fault. The facts stated in the last 
annual report of the Chief Signal Officer will show that he did all that 
he could to have the corps in better shape, and urged that much of the 
work be done in i)eace that was required in an emergency. The long line 
of Atlantic coast, the Gulf coast, and the Pacific coast, with their many 
harbors and harbor defenses, were not supplied with proper telegraph 
cables for electrical interconnection between adjacent fortifications. 

General Greely says: 

These barbor defenses, save two or three experiiuental stations, had no electrical 
iustalhition for the fire-control system, an absolutely necessary adjunct of disap- 
pearing guns. Under this system the range officers, located a long distance from 
the batteries, determine every minute or less the ijosition of the enemy's ships and 
communicate this information to the officer who controls the tiring. The control 
officer jjlots the positions and at a suitable instant causes, through the firing officers, 
the mortars to be discharged or one or all the guns to rise, deliver their fire, and 
then disappear in their pits. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 201 

All our modern fortifications were, with the exceptions named, with- 
out this connection between the range, the control, and the firing 
ofiicers. To establish this communication was the work to be done, 
and to be done at once. 

In addition to this the volunteer and regular troops that had been 
called out and mobilized had to have their camps equipped with tele- 
graph or telephone lines, connecting the brigade, division, and corps 
headquarters. The permanent military telegraph lines along the Mex- 
ican frontier, or running to the heart of the great Indian reservations, 
aggregating 900 miles, had to be regularly operated by the corps. 
These duties confronted the Signal Corps before there was a gun 
fired. The chief signal officer and the officers and men under his com- 
mand were equal to every emergency, and the work was so quickly 
and successfully done that there has not been a complaint filed from 
any source before this commission. The officers who have testified 
before us about the workings of this corps have, without a single 
exception, complimented in the highest terms the skill, efficiency, 
energy, and courage of the corps. 

What the corps did we will briefly state. It is due these gallant 
men that we should go into more extended detail, but we refer those 
who want to examine this work more fully to the testimony and to the 
various reports of the officers of the Signal Corps. On April 5 the 
Secretary of War allotted from the national-<lefense fund 823,700 for 
New York Harbor. Other important harbors were subsequently pro- 
vided for from the same fund. Cables were immediately laid to con- 
nect adjacent fortifications in many of the most important harbors. 
Electrical installation was provided for all the important modern bat- 
teries. Skilled men to operate these various appliances were provided. 
The force was supplemented by the addition of 45 trained sergeants 
and about 50 detailed men, partly instructed. The Volunteer Signal 
Corps was organized under acts of Congress approved May 18 and 
July 7. There were mustered into service under these acts 115 officers 
and about 1,000 men. 

One provision of the acts of Congress was of great advantage in 
securing the best men for this service, to wit, that two-thirds of the 
officers and enlisted men should be skilled electricians or telegraphers. 
Highly trained officers in the prime of life were secured, and the 
remarkable fact is reported that not one of them was either invalided 
or obliged to quit his duties during the war, though they served at 
Santiago, in Porto Rico, and at Manila. ' This Volunteer Signal Corps 
built and e(iuippetl over 250 miles of telephone and telegraph lines in 
the difterent camps in the United States, bringing all the various 
headquarters in close communication. 

When war commenced and the fleets started for Cuba and the trans- 
ports to Manila, the Signal Corps was on hand. The men of this corps 



202 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

cut the cables, often displaying great courage in doing their work 
under the euemy's guns. At Santiago they located Oervera and the 
Sjianish lines. They landed with the troops, laid their telegraph lines, 
following the line of battle as it advanced, kept up communication 
with the base of operation almost from tlie firing line, and when the 
two days' fighting that resulted in the capture of Santiago occurred 
General Shaffer said he had telegraphic communication with all his 
division commanders from his headquarters to the firing line. After 
the capture of Santiago and before the news of the surrender had 
reached all parts of the United States this corps had coupled the 
broken cable, and the President of the United States was able to learn 
promptly the details of the surrender at Santiago. The same suc- 
cessful work was accomplished at Porto Rico, and also at Manila, 
except the cable. The total amount of money available for the Signal 
Corps for eighteen months, ending December 31, 1898, aggregated 
$G09,0U0. 

In addition this corps was charged with the censorship of all dis- 
patches passing over the cable lines, the delicate and responsible duties 
connected with which were faithfully discharged. 

During the past twenty-five years, owing to the rapid development 
of artillery and small arms, great changes have taken place in modern 
warfare, whereby lines of battle of opposing forces are formed at such 
great distances apart, the movements of assaulting columns have be- 
come so much more dangerous, the determinations by scouts or armed 
reconnoissances of the position and strength of an enemy have been 
rendered so difficult, that the services of the Signal Corps during time 
of war have become of inestimable value. 

The work accomplished by the Signal Corps was of great aid to the 
army in the field and very efficient in maintaining communication in 
all of the camps. 

CAMPS AND THEIE SANITATION. 

CAMP GEORGE H. THOMAS. 

On April 15, 1898, by direction of the Secretary of War, a part of 
the Regular Army was ordered to rendezvous at Chickamauga Park, 
selected by the Commanding General of the Army as a place for the 
assembling of a portion of the troops intended for use in the anticipated 
war with Spain. On the 23d of the same month the encampment was 
designated as Camp George H. Thomas. 

Chickamauga Park, as is well known, is situated about 9 miles from 
the city of Chattanooga, Tenn., in the State of Georgia, and is the 
property of the United States. When this property was i)urchased as 
a reservation to commemorate the great three days' battle of 1863, 
fought thereon, it was contemi)lated that it might be used as a place 
for assembling troops in case of war. The means of communication 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 203 

between Chattanooga and tlie park were and are a good macadam turn- 
pike and the Chattanooga, Rome and Southern Railway Company, 
which has a single track only. The Southern Railway runs along near 
the western boundary of the park, and some troops were unloaded and 
loaded at Rossville, a station about 3 miles distant. Other troops w^ere 
brought upon the Atlantic and Western Railway to Ringgold, about 6 
miles away. 

The park contains about 7,000 acres, two-thirds of which is wooded 
largely with oak trees, the balance being cleared or open land. The 
wooded portion had been thoroughly cleaned of underbrush, and the 
trees are a sufficient distance apart and the surface is sufficiently 
smooth so that loaded wagons can be driven over nearly every part of 
it, and is so open that the sun can shine upon the ground almost every- 
where at some hour of the day. The surface of the park is gently 
rolling and is effectively drained in nearly every part. The height of 
the different portions above the sea level varies from 720 to 940 feet. 
It has no very rough or precipitous places, and the ground occupied by 
the troops was easy of access and sufficiently level for comfort and 
convenience. It is traversed in various directions by about 24 miles of 
good macadam roads, making transportation unusually easy. The soil 
is of a clay loam upon a foundation of limestone, which comes near the 
surface in most places and quite so over a large part of the wooded 
portion. The strata of this limestone rock run at all angles from per- 
pendicular to hoT-izontal and are loosely connected with each other. 

The climate was reputed to be dry and not excessively or uncom- 
fortably hot in summer, and the locality free from typhoid fever and 
other infectious diseases and generally healthful. As soon as it was 
decided to use the park, preparations were commenced for the reception 
and care of the troops. Storehouses for quartermaster's and commis- 
sary's stores and corrals for animals were rapidly constructed. The 
terminal facilities at Battlefield Station, which is situated at Lytle, on 
the southern border of the park, at that time were very limited ; but 
the railroad people showed commendable activity in putting in addi- 
tional sidings for the largely increased traffic which was to come. The 
railroad facilities, although in time fairly sufficient, were never as ample 
as was desirable. This lack was not so great as to be serious or to 
materially affect the desirability of the park for a camp site. Ten store- 
houses, 20 by 100 feet, for the commissary stores and a sufficient num- 
ber for quartermaster's supplies were rapidly constructed. 

The park commissioners immediately commenced the sinking of Avells, 
and the work was rapidly pushed forward until forty-five in all were 
ready for use. The needs of the coming forces appeared to be appre- 
hended by all the departments to which were committed the duty of 
preparation. 

Enough tentage for the troops was furnished except to the hospitals, 
where the supply was sometimes very inadequate. Transportation was 
usually sufficient. 



204 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Eatioiis were good in quality and abundant in quantity. 

Medicines and medical supplies were at times deficient. Laundry 
work for the hospital was done at Chattanooga. An adequate and 
satisfactory refrigerating plant for the reception and preservation of 
fresh beef was erected by the beef contractors. A large bakery with a 
capacity of G0,000 loaves per day was built, and in a reasonable time 
after the establishment of the camp it was in operation and furnished 
excellent bread. 

Most of the regular troops were encamped on the open ground and 
most of the volunteers in the woods heretofore described. Regiments 
and brigades were usually placed quite close together — closer than 
was desirable or necessary, as there was ample space. The reasons 
assigned for placing the troops in the woods were that in hot weather 
the sliade would be grateful and the open ground would be left for 
drilling and tactical maneuvers. 

MOVEMENT OP TROOPS. 

The first regiment of the Eegular Army arrived about the middle of 
April and the others followed in rapid succession until 7,283 officers 
and men were in the park. The first volunteer troops arrived about 
the middle of May and were quickly followed by others, until by May 
31 there were 44,1327 present. Some days as many as five or six regi- 
ments arrived, taxing the railroads and camp transportation to the 
utmost. When the Chattanooga, Eome and Southern Railway was 
unable to handle all the troops arriving they were unloaded at Rossville 
and some of the artillery and cavalry at Chattanooga and all marched 
into camp. 

On June 30 there were 58,548 troops in camp; on July 31 43,823 
troops; on August 31 there were 13,161 troops; total number of troops 
that arrived at Camj) Thomas was 09,459 volunteers and 7,283 regulars. 

The average number in camp during May, June, and July was 46,947. 

On May 7 the First Army Corps was constituted and May 16 Maj. 
Gen. John R. Brooke was placed in command of it, being already in 
command of the camp. Tlie Third Army Corps was constituted the 
same date, and May 16 placed under the command of Maj. Gen. James 
F. Wade. All the regular troops left for Tampa in the early ])art of 
May. 

Ernst's Brigade, of Wilson's Division, left Camp Thomas July 8 for 
Porto Rico; the balance of the First Division, First Corps, with General 
Brooke in command, left July 23 for the same place. 

During the latter part of August quite a large number of troops 
were ordered to their several States and subsequently mustered out. 
Those remaining were disi^osed of as follows, viz, on August 21 and 
22, the Second and Third Divisions of the First Corps were sent to 
Lexington, Ky., and Knoxville, Tenn., respectively. 



REPORT OF I'HE COMMISSION. 205 

Early in September what was left of the Third T'orps was transferred 
to Aimistoii, Ala., and subsequently nuide part of the Fourth Cor]>s. 
At the end of Seiitember there was but a small detachment of troops 
left in camp. 

Maj. Gen. John E. Brooke commanded the camp IVom Ai)ril 20 to 
July 23; Maj. Gen. James F. Wade from July 23 to August 2, and Maj. 
Gen. J. C. Breckinridge from August 2 uutil its practical abandonment. 

WATEK surrLY. 

At the time the first troox)S arrived at the park there were lune deep- 
drilled wells, besides several wejls at farmhouses and a number of 
cold springs which had been considered pure. These springs and 
wells were cleaned out and the wells provided with pumps by the 
park commissioners before the water was used. These wells and 
those subsequently sunk were piped to the bottom with six-inch iron 
tubing, which projected two or three feet above the surface of the 
ground. The pipes above the ground were protected by stone laid in 
cement for the purpose of preventing surface drainage getting into 
the wells. 

The])rincipal springs outside the park are Crawfish Springs, capacity, 
say, 15,000,000 gallons per day, distance li miles; Blue Springs, dis- 
tance, 3 miles; Ellis Springs, distance, 4 miles. All furnished good and 
abundant water. The water supplied the camp was obtained from 
the springs above mentioned, hauled in barrels furnished by the 
Quartermaster's Departmen to the different regimental organizations 
from the nine wells in existence in the park before the arrival of 
the troops, and thirty-six more that were rapidly sunk in convenient 
localities, and from Ohickamauga Creek. The wells furnished one 
barrel per minute by vigorous pumping. The use of Crawfish Springs 
was discontinued about July 1 on account of disagreement with the 
owner as to compensation, and the direct supi^ly from that source 
was cut off. 

The park commissioners put in a water system at Chickamauga 
Creek, where it touches the park on its northern and eastern corner. 
An intake was constructed at that point, a i)ower house erected and 
furnished with steam pumping machinery, with a capacity of 1,800,000 
gallons per day, and a reservoir with a capacity of 17,000 gallons was 
erected some distance from the pump house upon an elevation suffi- 
ciently high so that the water could be distributed through the various 
portions of the park by gravity. The water-pipe line was about 10 
miles in length and extended to the camps of numerous regiments. 
Chickamauga Creek has its source some 20 miles distant from the 
l)ark, in the highlands, and is fed by numerous springs, the tnost 
important of which are Pond, Gowdy, Owen, Lee, and Crawfish. The 
anxiety to furnish the water to the troops at the earliest possible 



206 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

moment prevented putting tlie pipes int(> the ground at first, but as 
soon as possible and as far as practicable this was done. 

Ill the meantime the heating of the pipes by the sun's rays made the 
water very warm and unpalatable. The water supply was a cause of 
much anxiety and comment by officers and men during the entire occu 
pancy of the camp, and much testimony has been taken respecting it. 
We visited the park October 28 and examined the source ofsiipply at 
Ohickamauga Creek; also the wells and some of the springs. The 
banks of the Creek are composed of a reddish loam, readily soluble, 
which makes its waters always usually more or less roily, and after 
heavy rains quite muddy. Cave Creek, which drains a large portion 
of the camp occupied by the troops,. naturally ran into Chickamauga 
Creek at a point near the intake pipe of the water system. Before any 
water was pumped a ditch was cut from Cave Creek at a point about 
60 feet above where it entered Chickamauga Creek to a point in said 
creek 00 feet below where the intake pipe was placed. A dam was 
constructed across the natural channel of Cave Creek, thus diverting 
its water into the ditch. 

It appears from the testimony that the top of the dam washed off 
once or twice during the heavy rains, but that no water was pumped 
at those times. We do not think that the water supply was con- 
taminated by the drainage through Cave Creek. A careful examination 
of the camp sites and general formation of the ground leads to the 
conclusion that the waters of Chickamauga Creek at the intake were 
not contaminated from the park. 

All the chemical and bacteriological examinations made of this water 
of which we have knowledge show that it was not a source of infection 
and might have been used with safety. The fact remains, however, 
that the water was quite unsatisfactory and repugnant to most of the 
troops. Many of them refused to drink it, and at last its use was inter- 
dicted unless boiled. Boiling as a rule was found to be impracticable, 
or, at least, was not generally adopted and vsoon ceased almost entirely. 
The hot weather made the water very warm and the heavy rains made 
it muddy and unpalatable. Filters were used to a limited extent, but 
their use amounted to but little, as they soon clogged with the large 
amount of solid substances which were held in suspension in the water. 

At first all the wells in the camp furnished cool and pure water, but 
later some of them became contaminated and their use was discontinued. 
Whether any of those which were not discontinued were contaminated 
may be a mooted question, but the evidence before us does not warrant 
the statement that such was the fact. A very considerable quantity of 
the water used for drinking during July and August was drawn from 
the springs above mentioned, which were located outside of the park, 
the procuring of which was at times a serious inconvenience. There 
were but few bathing houses, soldiers generally bathing below the 
intake in Chickamauga Creek. The troo)»s washed their clothing in 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 207 

water obtaiued from the pipe system, from the wells and springs, aud 
iu Chickamauga Creek. 

The water supply at Camp Thomas was at times insufficient for com- 
fort, especially when the largest number of troops were there. At 
these times of shortness of water considerable inconvenience and dis 
comfort were caused, but it did not amount to distress. It is very 
difficult to determine from the evidence to what extent iini)ure water 
contributed to the production of sickness, but it is probable that it did 
to a considerable degree. The men would drink any clear water with- 
out much thought as to its source, and it appears that they used \vater 
which was known to be imi>ure and which was forbidden. In some 
cases this practice was induced no doubt by disinclination to driuk 
the roily water from Chickamauga Creek. 

SANITATION. 

Many causes conspired to make the sanitary condition of Cam]> 
Thomas very imperfect aud at times decidedly bad. In the woods where 
most of the troops were located the soil was very shallow, so that sinks 
could not generally be dug on an average of more than 3 or 4 feet, 
which was not over one-half of the regulation depth, before rock would 
be struck. When the heavy rains came in July the sinks, owing to the 
character of the soil, which would not allow seepage of liquids through 
it aud the rock underneath, filled with water and overflowed, carrying 
the fecal matter over the surface of the ground to a greater or less dis- 
tance. The earth was only slightly absorbent, aud when thrown into 
the sinks, as some was supposed to be many times during tbe day, 
it would absorb but little of the liquid contents and do but little if 
any good. 

At first but a small quantity of disinfectants were used in or about the 
siuks, as the regulations prescribed that they should not be furnished, 
and the necessity for their use did not seem to be fully appreciated. 
Even after their use became urgent great difficulty in procuring them 
was exj)erienced, aud it was 'not until August that lime and other dis- 
infectants were furnished in sufficient quantities. It is much to be 
regretted that so much delay occurred in this imi^ortant matter. 
Another potent cause of the insanitary condition of the camp was fur- 
nished by the men defecating in the woods in close proximity to their 
tents. The pollution varied iu different localities, but was at first quite 
general, and, with the siuks, was no doubt a prolific soure of infection. 
Vigorous eftbrts were made to put a stop to such an uusoldierly and 
dangerous practice, but, although materially lessened, it was never 
wholly suppressed. 

The camping places proper of the various regiments were, with few 
exceptions, well policed and keptiu good sanitary condition, excepting 
the sinks, which were very often too near the quarters of the men, and 



208 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

were not inclosed for some time after the establishment of the camp. 
Much of the refuse of the camps aud corrals was drawn to various 
places more or less remote aud burned, aud it does not appear that any 
neglect to do this was a serious cause of uuhealthfuluess of the troops. 
Some of the regiments burned their kitchen refuse in their kitchen 
fires. 

Duriug the existence of the camp as many as 600 licenses to hucksters 
were granted. A system of inspection of what they had for sale was 
adopted, and all articles supposed to be deleterious to the men were 
excluded ; but there can not be much doubt that the large quantities 
of pies, cakes, fruits, etc., eaten were the cause of much sickness, 
especially intestiual disorders. Many of the regiments maintained can- 
teens, from which were sold large quantities of beer, quantities so large 
that the health of the men must necessarily have been injuriously 
affected. Passes to Chattanooga were allowed to from two to six men 
per day per company. That place offered full facilities for indulgence 
of appetite in many directions, and the dissipation of the men who 
visited that city, with or without permission, worked much injury to 
the command. 

The weather was extreinely hot up to July 1, and after that very 
rainy, which was uuex]3ected and unprecedented, and caused great 
discomfort to all and suffering and sickness to some. The rapid 
decomposition of kitchen and other refuse contributed materially to 
the development of disease. 

When the insanitary condition of the camps became known, the 
troops should have been moved into the open ground, and if neces- 
sary the places for drilling and tactical manojuvers sacrificed. In 
not doing this the various commanders of the cami> were in error. 
In excuse it may be said that it was daily expected by the various 
commanders up to August 15 that a large portion of the troops would 
be ordered away from the Park to Cuba or Porto Rico. Tlie evidence 
shows that the various commanding officers of the camp promulgated 
proper orders for sanitation, and that daily inspections were made, and 
it is ec^ually in evidence that these orders were not obeyed, and that 
these inspections failed of securing their proijcr result, and the insani- 
tary conditions continued to an unusual extent. One of the great 
causes of insauitation was the inexperience of the men, who, not regard- 
ing the restrictions imposed upon them as reasonable or necessary, 
paid little attention to the sanitary orders issued. 

Making due allowance for the stated causes of iusanitation, the 
responsibility for the failure to materially lessen the evils which existed 
must rest upon the several commanders aud chief medical officers of 
the camp and corps. 

Myriads of flies, rapidly propagated by the favorable conditions of 
heat, moisture, kitchen aud otlici- garbage and the excreta of men and 
animals, infested the camp in all its parts and caused great annoyance 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 209 

and discomfort to man and beast, and was one of the assigned causes 
of tlie spread of typhoid fever. 

The instruction in conipany and regimental drill and brigade and 
division movements was carried on as the weather and the health of 
the command permitted. 

On the whole, the camp was unsatisfactory by reason of the existence 
of conditions which we have enumerated. In August, when it was 
apparent that no more troops would be needed for active service, the 
men became discontented, and the order for breaking it up was hailed 
with great satisfticrion. 

The better condition of the camps that succeeded Camp Thomas and 
the other early ones was the result >of dearly bought and consequently 
appreciated experience. 

Considering the area of the open spaces and the rocky formation of 
the ground in the wooded portions, and considering the water supply, 
we are of opinion that Chickamauga Park can not comfortably accom- 
modate more than 20,000 troops at once for any great length of time. 

As bearing upon the healthfulness of this locality, it may be stated 
that Surgeon Hepburn, of the Eighth United States Volunteer Infantry, 
at present post surgeon at Camp Thomas, under date of January 28, 
1899, reports that, from October 8, 1898, to January 20, 1899, there 
were 1,150 troops there; that there had been during that time 111 
separate cases treated in the hospital and not a death had occurred 
from disease, nor a case of typhoid fever developed. 

OAMP ALGER. 

Camp Alger was established May 18, after a report to the Quarter- 
master-General dated May 8, as to its suitableness, by Capt. M. C. 
Martin, assistant quartermaster. United States Army, concurred in by 
Captain Seyburn, on duty at the headquarters of the 4^rmy. The 
report says : 

I liavo the honor to report that a tract of land,containiug upward of 1,400 acres — 
meadow, pasture, and woodland — can be ohtainod for camping purposes at a distance 
of about 2 miles from Falls Church, Va. This tract is owned by Mr. C. L. Campbell, 
is well watered, and, I think, contains enough cleared land for the camping of an 
army corps. It is about 300 feet higher than Washington and is the only large tract 
which I have been able to find in one body and within reasonable distance of this city. 
It lies between 1 and 3 miles of three different stations on a 1)rauch of the South- 
ern Railway, which will put in the necessary sidings and provide free of cost the 
necessary land on its right of way for storehouses, etc. 

On May 8 the recommendations were approved by the Quarter- 
master-General and by the Secretary of War. 

Camp Alger was about 1|- miles from Dunn Loring, a station on a 

branch of the Southern Railway, as above stated, and 7 miles from 

Washington, and about 5 miles distant from Fort Myer. The surface 

of this tract is rolling, partly wooded, with cultivated clearings and 

7833 — VOL. 1 14 



210 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

with good drainage. The soil is of clay and sand and nearly impervious 
to water. Iiiiinediately after the selection of this camp preparations 
were made for the reception of troops by the erection of storehouses at 
Dunn Loring, where the Southern Eailway j)ut in extra sidings to 
accommodate the increased traffic. The Second Army Corps was 
constituted May 7, and May 16 Maj. Gen. W. M. Graham was assigned 
to the command, and the troops which were to compose the corps were 
ordered to this camp. General Graham arrived May 19 and assumed 
command, which he exercised during the existence of the camp. This 
corps was composed wholly of volunteers. The troops commenced 
arriving the 18th of May, and by the last of that month there were 
18,309 officers and men in camp. On the last day of June there were 
23,511 officers and men, on the last day of July there were 22,180, on 
the last day of August the troops present at this camp and Camp Meade 
were 21,456. 

Total number of troops that went to Camp Alger 31,195. 

August 2 one division of the corps marched to Thoroughfare Gap, 
80 miles distant, and remained in camp there for about one month. 

Duffield's brigade left camp June 15 and Garretson's brigade July 5, 
both for Santiago. 

Early in September the remainder of the corps was transferred to 
Camp Meade, near Middletown, Pa. 

The supply of transportation for this corps was somewhat limited at 
first but subsequently was abundant. The water sui^ply was also 
quite limited and never was sufficient for other uses than cooking and 
drinking, and not that until about the 25th of June, when about forty 
wells had been sunk. There were no adequate bathing facilities nearer 
than tlve Potomac Eiver, which was 7 miles distant. The troops were 
encamped both in the open and wooded portions. Those in the latter 
did not seem to suffer on account of their jiosition. The sinks were 
generally properly policed, of the regulation depth, and were very soon 
inclosed. 

The woods were quite badly j)olluted by the excreta of the men; but 
the commanding officer issued stringent sanitary regulations and used 
great efforts to see that they were obeyed. His efforts were fairly suc- 
cessful. The trooi)s were well supplied with tentage. The camps of 
the different regiments were well policed, and the refuse properly dis- 
posed of by burning. The rations were abundant in quantity and good 
in quality. Field bakeries were established in the camp and at Dunn 
Loring on August 2, from which the corps was supplied with excellent 
bread. As heretofore stated, on the 1st of August it was decided to 
reduce the number of troops, one division being sent to Thorough- 
fare Gap, and about two weeks later it was decided to move the 
whole corps. Early in September that was accomplished. During the 
existence of this camp the weather was exceedingly hot and some por- 
tion of the time very rainy, both of which conditions, with myriads of 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 211 

flies whicli infested tlie camp, were the causes of much discomfort to 
the men. The health of this locality is reputed to be as good as any in 
the section of country about Washington. 

The number of deaths from May 18 to October 11 was 71, and at 
Thoroughfare Gap 31. This death rate is not abnormal, and, judging 
from it, the locality can not be considered unhealthful. The Seventh 
Illinois Kegiment, which was encamped there during the whole time, 
lost but one man up to the 11th day of December, a record probably 
not equaled by any other regiment in the service. The establishment 
of Camp Alger is justifiable upon the report as to the suitableness of 
the site, but considering the scarcity of water and the want of facihties 
for bathing, we are of opinion that it was very undesirable, and was not 
abandoned too soon. 

CAMP CUBA LIBRE, JACKSONVILLE, FLA. 

Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee selected this camp and established it May 
29. Its abandonment was begun October 23, the corps being trans- 
ferred to Savannah, Ga. This cdmp was located from 2 to 4 miles 
from the business portion of Jacksonville, near the banks of the St. 
Johns Kiver, upon a sandy plain, sparsely covered with pine trees. 
The ground is generally level and the soil of such a character that 
sinks could be dug to the required depth and the liquid portion of the 
contents absorbed. There was one division of about 10,000 men 
encamped immediately upon the banks of the St. Johns Eiver, the 
balance of the command being in the interior. This division con- 
structed a system of troughs for sinks, through which water was 
pumped and the excrement carried into the river and thence by the 
tide to the sea, an admirable and convenient sanitary arrangement. 

One division of the Seventh Corps, formerly Schwan's division, Fourth 
Corps, was for a time at Miami, but was brought to Jacksonville as soon 
as the unhealthful situation of Miami was definitely ascertained. 

The strength of the Seventh Corps, June 30, was 19,156 officers and 
enlisted men; July 31, 24,102; August 31, 28,842. 

The total number of troops which went to Camp Cuba Libre was 
28,842, all volunteers. 

Number of deaths from May 26 to September 30, 246. 

This camp and Jacksonville were visited October 17 to 20 and 
carefully inspected. The camp was clean and the ofticers aiul men 
mostly cheerful and well contented, although anxious to move either 
to Cuba or home. Many of the regiments made low houses of boards 
from 4 to 6 feet in height, upon which were mounted their tents,, 
making practically a two-story tent. The lower story was very con- 
venient for storage, and added much to the comfort and health of the 
men. The water supply, which was abundant and good, was fur- 
nished from the city waterworks of Jacksonville, and was carried by 
pipes to the camps of the various regiments. Bathing houses were 



212 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

erected, and tbeir use contributed much to the comfort and healthful- 
ness of the men. The sanitary arrangements were exceUent, and were 
so from nearly the first establishment of the camp. The hospital 
arrangements were ample and good, the rations good in quality and 
suf&cient in quantity. The discomfort from heat during the months of 
August and September was considerable. 

It was wise to move the corps to Savannah at the time it was done, 
for reasons hereinbefore stated in regard to camping troops too long in 
one place, and also for the morale and contentment of the men. 

A camp for convalescents was established at Pablo Beach, about 
12 miles from Jacksonville, where about 1,400 men were treated. • 

While there are many favorable things that may be said about the 
camp at Jacksonville, that it would be much better not to encamp 
troops in the State of Florida during the summer months, except as a 
military necessity to do so. 

CAMP AT FERNANDINA, FLA. 

Two members of the commission were detailed to examine the aban- 
doned camp site at Fernandina and report what facts they could ascer- 
tain in regard to it. Charges of corruption in connection with the 
selection of the site of this camp had been made; investigation proved 
them to be unfounded. This camp was occupied by the Third Divi- 
sion of the Fourth Corps, under command of Brig. Gen. L. H. Carpenter, 
from July 3 to about the middle of August, when this division was 
moved to Huntsville, Ala. 

The report, which expresses our views of this camp, is as follows : 

In compliauce with the instructioiiH of the commission, we have the honor to 
report that we visited Fernandina, Fla., on the 18th instant, and made a careful and 
critical inspection of the site occupied as a camp by the troops lately stationed at 
that town, and found the conditions to be as follows: 

The Florida Central and Peninsular Railroad, leading into Fernandina, is a well- 
equipped one-track road, with sidings at the town amounting in all to about two 
miles. Its facilities for receiving and delivering troops appear to be very good. 

The facilities for embarking and disembarking troops by water arc also^-ory good, 
there being a dock front over a half mile long, with a minimum low-water depth over 
the bar at the mouth of the harbor of not less than 17 feet and a rise of tide of 6 feet. 

The location of the camp is excellent, probably quite equal to any site for the 
purpose that could have been selected on the Florida coast. The ground is rolling, 
its maximum elevation about 60 feet above the level of the sea, with no swamp 
except a tidal salt marsh beyond the highest ground. The sea-bathing facilities are 
excellent. 

We visited and walked over a largo portion of the area occupied by the troops, 
and although there had been a severe storm the night before our arrival, the ground 
was practically dry. 

We carefully examined the site of the camp of the Third Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
which it has been reported was a tropical jungle, worthless land until cleared, and 
upon which the troops worked like slaves to clear it until it was fit for camping. 
While your committee can not state the condition of this land when the troops 
arrived, it found no appearance of a tropical jungle here or in the vicinity. There 
were no evidences of there having been serious work in preparing the camps, 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 213 

although, as ia usual, there wore small bushes, vines, low palms, etc., scattered here 
and there over the camp site and the adjacent land. Altogether the committee was 
most favorably impressed with the character of the site selected. 

We were informed that it had been occupied by about 16,000 troops. 

We visited and obtained from the county clerk of Xassan County, Fla., Mr. George 
E. Wolft", a map showing the lands occupied by the troops, and his official certificate 
as to the ownership of the land. This certilicate states that the greater part of the 
lands occupied reverted to the State of Florida in June, 1897, by reason of unpaid 
taxes, and that no one by the name of Alger ever controlled any lands in the county 
of Nassau, as shown by the records, and that the land occupied by the Third Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers at Fernandiua as a camp was at the time the property of the 
State of Florida. 

The distance of the site of the camp from town is from 1 to 1^ miles. The water 
was piped without expenditure to the camp from Fernandina, being from an arte- 
sian well about 600 feet deep. The supply was unlimited. The water had a slight 
sulphur taste, which it is said some of the troops disliked, and occasionally used 
surface water. 

The locations of the hospitals as pointed out to us were on high ground, well 
drained, and apparently well selected. 

The time the site was occupied by the troops was from July 21 to August 15, in all 
about three weeks. 

The mayor of Fernandina informed us that Major Heudley, the surgeon in charge 
of the camp, had stated to him just before the troops left that the number of sick 
was 540. Your committee therefore has the honor to report that, in its opinion, 
the camp was well selected ; that probably the site was etjual in all respects to any 
other that could have been found on the Florida coast ; that from the information 
they obtained and what they saw it was far from being a tropical jungle, and 
that the certificate of the county clerk indicates that no Government official was 
interested in the land; that the amount of Avork done in clearing the underbrush 
was no greater than might have been expected at almost any locality in the South 
selected for camping purposes; that the site was well drained, the water for drink- 
ing and cooking purposes good, and the bathing facilities at the sea beach excellent. 

Ai^i^e'adecl to the report was the certificate iu footnote below : 
State of Florida, County of Nassau : 

I, George E. Wolff, clerk circuit court and custodian of public records in and 
for Nassau County, Fla., hereby certify that I have carefully searched the public 
records of said county, and find that R. A. Alger does not own or control, directly 
or indirectly, any land on the island of Amelia, Nassau County, Fla. I further cer- 
tify that the records sliow that fee simjile title to the lands lately occupied by the 
military camps at Fernandina, as indicated by maps hereto attached and made a 
part of this certificate (red lines of said map indicating water pipes of said camp), 
are vested in the several per.sons and corporations as follows: 

Fernandina Development Company, Florida Town Improvement Company, S. A. 
Swann, S. D. Swann, Fred. W. Haward, A. T. Williams, M. B. Self, W. II. Hendricks, 
Mrs. D. M. Hammond, W. C. Yulee, P. Edwards. 

That I further certify that the greater part of said lands, as indicated by green 
coloring on said map, reverted to the State of Florida, June, 1897, by reason of 
unpaid State and county taxes for the years 1895, 1896. 

I further certify that no one by the name of Alger ever owned or controlled any 
lands in said county of Nassau, and further that the lands occupied by the Third 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Regiment at Fernandina as camp was at the time property 
of the State of Florida, having reverted to the State for unpaid taxes previous to its 
occupation as such camp. 

Witness my hand and official seal this 18tli day of October, 1898. 

George E. Wolff, 
Cleric Circuit Court, Nassau County, Fla. 



214 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
CAMP AT MIAMI, FLA. 

In the early i)art of June, Miami was selected for a camp by the Major- 
General Commaudiiig the Army, upon the recommendatiou of a board 
of officers cousistiug of Assistant Surgeou-General Greeuleaf, Maj. G. 
H. Hopkins, and MaJ. Walter Reed, the first two of whom testified 
before ns tliat they di<l not expect it to be used as a permanent camp, 
but only as a camp of isolation. On June 20 a division of the Fourth 
Corps under the command of General Schwan was seut there, and on 
June 28 was designated as the First Division of the Seventh Corps. 
July 31 this camp was abandoned and the troops transferred to Jack- 
sonville, because it was found in all respects unsuitable. 

This place has been severely criticised, but the Commanding General 
of the Army said of it in a communication to the Secretary of War, 
dated June 14, " It has been cleared for 5,000 troops, and additional 
ground will be cleared for any number. Its advantages are the cool 
ocean breezes, nearness to the Gulf Stream and Cuba, and perfect isola- 
tion from yellow fever, which is the principal objection to Savannah, 
Jacksonville, and Mobile," and, " I think it of the highest importance 
that the troops be placed in the three healthful camps of instruction— 
Chickamauga, Fernandina, and Miami." 

CAMP AT TAMPA, FLA. 

The Seventh Army Corps, Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee commanding, was 
organized May IG at Tampa. This corps was removed to Jacksonville 
May 31, with the exception of the First Division, which remained at 
Tampa. On the same date, ^May 16, the Fifth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. 
William E. Shatter commanding, was organized, with headquarters at 
Tampa. On the 30th day of May this corps comprised 1G,426 men. On 
June 7 it embarked on transports for Santiago de Cuba, leaving in the 
carap parts of several organizations, with a large number of horses 
and mules. The camp was established May 2, and was not intended 
for a permanent one, but merely as a rendezvous for troops pending 
shipment from Port Tampa. Port Tampa had good facilities in the 
way of extensive wharfage, which would accommodate from fifteen to 
twenty vessels at a time, enabling troops and supplies to be loaded 
with reasonable dispatch. 

This is more especially true of troops, as the narrowness of the 
wharves tended to confusion in handling stores, teams, and artillery. 
Most of the men were encamped in healthful locations, but some of 
them upon ground so low that when the rainy season commenced much 
discomfort was experienced. The water supply was ample and good, 
being obtained from the works of the Plant system, which was 
extended into the camps of the various organizations. The railroad 
transportation facilities were the Plant system and the Florida Central 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 215 

and Peninsula Railway. The excessive beat of the summer caused 
considerable discomfort to the troops and live stock, and the order for 
transfer to Montauk Point the first part of August was very welcome. 
The whole number of troops that went to Tampa during the existence 
of the camj) was 20,470 volunteers and 27,G02 regulars, a total of 48,072. 

There were present on June 20, 19,322 troops, and on July 20, 25,306. 

The number of deaths from disease and accident from May 2 to 
September 30 was 56. 

CAMPS MERRIAM AND MERRITT, SAN FRANCISCO, CAL. 

These camps were instituted for the mobilization of troops intended 
for the Philippine Islands. Camp Merriam was first located on the 
Presidio reservation, near the Lombard street entrance. About 10,000 
men were encamped there. The area of the camp was quite limited 
and the troops were somewhat crowded. The water supply was good. 
As soon as it was understood that the force was to be increased Camp 
Merritt was established near the northern boundary of the Golden Gate 
Park and the troops from Camp Merriam moved to that place. Eighteen 
thousand men were encamped in Camp Merritt, occupying it only until 
the fleet upon which they embarked was assembled and fitted for their 
reception. There was considerable sickness, especially measles. Some 
typhoid fever appeared. Camp Merriam was commanded by Maj, Gen. 
Henry C. Merriam, and Camp Merritt by Maj. Gen. Wesley Merritt. 

The camps at New Orleans and Mobile were only temporary. The 
Fourth Corps was organized at Mobile the 1st of June and immedi- 
ately commenced moving to Tampa. The whole number of troops at 
Mobile were 9,534, under command of Maj. Gen. John J. Coppinger. 

CAMP WIKOFF. 

Named in honor of the colonel of the Twenty-second United States 
Infantry, killed at San Juan July 1, Camp Wikofi" was at Montauk 
Point, 125 miles distant from New York, 45 from Newport, 11. 1., and 28 
from New London, Conu. 

The " Point " is sarrounded by water and lias a good harbor on the 
Sound side which affords shelter from the Atlantic storms. It is a 
United States quarantine station, and has one good wharf, but the 
water is not of sufficient depth to allow heavy draft ocean steamers 
to lie alongside of it. 

The surface of the ground is rolling, nearly bare of trees; the soil of 
loam, clay, and gravel, with a solid turf and good covering of grass. 
The place is healthful and during the summer cool and comfortable. 

About 15,000 acres were available for camp purposes — ample space for 
50,000 men. 

The site had been favorably considered by a board of officers that had 
carefully examined it on the 3d of June preceding, whicii board, as 



216 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

stated by a member, General Frauk, was looking for a place " where 
we can take the troops from the Santiago campaign, rest tliem, recuper- 
ate them, and cake them in the fall for the Havana campaign." 

Provisional arrangements for the use of the land were made with the 
owners of the property through the i^resident of the Long Island Eail- 
road, Mr. Baldwin, he insisting upon one thing as a prerequisite to any 
contract, that at least two weeks' notice should be given before the 
ground was occupied by troops, so that the Montauk end of the railroad 
might be put in proper condition. 

The surrender of the Spanish forces at Santiago and the subsequent 
rapid increase of sickness in the regiments of the Fifth Corps led the 
War Department to consider the advisability of withdrawal of the 
corps from Cuba, the absolute and immediate necessity for which was 
recognized on receipt (August 4) of a telegram from Major-General 
Sh after, transmitting the following letters of commanding ofiicers and 
chief surgeons: 

Maj. Geu. W. R. Siiafter, 

Commanding United States forces in Cuia: 
We, the imdersigued general officers commancUug various brigades, divisions, etc., 
of the United States Army of occupation in Cuba, are of the unanimous opinion that 
this array must be at once taken out of the island of Cuba and sent to some point 
"on the northern seacoast of the United States; that this can be done -without danger 
to the jjeojile of the United States; that there is no epidemic of yellow fever in the 
army at present — only a few sporadic cases; that the army is disabled by malarial 
fever to such an extent that its efficiency is destroyed and it is in a condition to be 
practically entirely destroyed by the epidemic of yellow fever sure to come in the 
near future. 

Wo know from reports from competent officers and from personal observations 
that the army is unable to move to the interior, and that there arc no facilities for 
such move, if attempted, and will not bo until too late. Moreover, the best medi- 
cal authorities in the island say that with our present equipment we could not live 
in the interior during the rainy season without losses from malarial fever almost as 
bad as from yellow fever. This army must be moved at once or it will perish. As 
an army it can be safely moved now. Persons responsible for preventing such a 
move will be responsible for the unnecessary loss of many thousands of lives. Our 
opinions are the result of careful personal observations and are also based upon the 
unanimous opinion of our medical officers who are with the army and understand 
the situation absolutely. 

(Signed) Jos. Wheeler, major-general volunteers; Samuel S. Sumner, command- 
ing Cavalry Brigade; William Ludlow, brigadier-general United 
States Volunteers, commanding First Brigade, Second Division; 
Adelbert Ames, brigadier-general United States Volunteers, com- 
manding Third Brigade, First Division; Leonard AVood, brigadier- 
general United States Volunteers, commanding city of Santiago; 
Theodore Roosevelt, colonel, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade; 
J. Ford Kent, major-general volunteers, commanding First Division, 
Fifth Corps ; J. C. Bates, major-general volunteers, commanding 
Provisional Division, Fifth Corps; H. W. Lawton, major-general 
volunteers, commanding Second Division, Fifth Corps; C. McKibbin, 
brigadier -general United States Volunteers, commanding Second 
Brigade, Second Division. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 217 

The Adjutant-General Fifth Army Corps. 

Sir : The chief surgeou of the Fifth Army Corps and tlio chief surgeous of divisions 
consider it to he their iiuporative duty, after mature deliberation, to express their 
unanimous opinion that this army is now in a very critical condition. They believe 
that the prexalent malarial fever -"vill doubtless continue its ravages and that its 
mortality will soon increase; that there is imuiineut danger that the yellow fever, 
now sporadic and of a mild type, may any day assume a virulent typo and become 
epidemic. They unanimously recommend that the only course to pursue to save the 
lives of thousands of our soldiers is to transi)ort the whole army to the United States 
as quickly as possible. Such transport they consider practicable and reasonably 
free from danger. The proposed move to the plateau of San Luis they believe dan- 
gerous and impracticable. 

Very respectfully, V. Havard, 

Major and Surgeon, TJ. S. Ai'tny, Chief Surgeon. 

IT. S. KiLBOURNE, 

Major and Surgeon, Chief Surgeon Second Division, Fifth Corps. 

, M. W. Wood, 
Major and Chief Surgeon First Division, Fifth Corps. 
Frank J. Ives, 
Major and Surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, Chief Surgeon Provisional Division. 

H. S. T. Harris, 
Major and Surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, Chief Surgeon Cavalry Division. 

Moiitauk Point had already been decided npou as the site fw the 
proposed camp, it being accessible by water, thns obviating the neces- 
sity of transshipment from transports to cars, and so isolated as that 
the communication of yellow fever to places outside the camp could 
almost certainly be prevented. 

On August 2 an agreement had been entered into by Colonel Gillis, 
U. S. A., representing the Government, and Mr. W. H. Baldwin, jr., 
representing the owners of the laud, and on August 4 contracts were 
made by the Quartermaster's Department for lumber, immps, piping, 
tanks, etc., which were at once shipped to Montauk. On the 6th the 
sinking of a well was started; lumber began to arrive the same day, 
and the building of commissary and (juartermaster's storehouses was 
commenced. 

Maj. Gen. S. B. M. Young having arrived August 5, with orders to 
establish the camp, great activity was shown in preparing for the troops 
expected from Santiago. 

As rapidly as possible the railroad company put down about 44 miles 
of side tracks capable of holding 380 cars, but for a while there was 
difQculty in so getting at these tracks as to permit of quick unloading. 

Work was pushed on the ordered fivc'detention camps for 1,000 men 
each, with their hospital accommodations for 500, for through these 
camps had to pass all the men coming from Cuba. A general camp of 
new tents intended to shelter from 9,000 to 10,000 men was ready for occu- 
pancy before a transport came in. The general hospital was prepared 
for patients as fast as was permitted by the limited number of workmen 
and the delays in getting tents and lumber on the ground. 



218 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

When the work of preparing the camp had hardly commenced, before 
a single tent was pitched on Moutaiik Point, on the 7th of August 
troops began to come in from Tampa and other places in the Southern 
States, and within forty-eight hours there were, of these recruits and 
men left behind when the Fifth Corps sailed for Cuba, a force number- 
ing 4,2!)3, and with it seven or eight thousand horses and mules. The 
first of these troops arrived without tents or eqnii^ment of any kind 
and with only travel rations, which General Young testified gave rise 
to "a great deal of scandal," though there was no occasion therefor, as 
the men did not sufter, and within twenty-four hours the baggage trains 
came in. 

As Camp Wikoft" was to be a place of rest and recuperation for the 
sick army expected from Cuba, and at the same time a quarantine 
station for tlie protection of tlie country, it would certainly, for every 
reason, have been better if these thousands of men and animals had 
not been ordered to Montauk. Their arrival and presence increased 
the confusion and added to the burdens of all officials, military and 
railroad. 

It was about two weeks before the camp was in tolerable running 
order, and during this time troops kept coming in, all in a "pitiable 
condition." 

Major General Wheeler, who had arrived on August 15, was on the 
18th placed in command, and remained so until the latter part of 
September. 

Under orders from the President and the Secretary of War to have 
the men at Montauk cared for "without considering expeuvse," General 
Wheeler, upon assuming command, ordered by telegraph a large quan- 
tity of supplies,* which were soon received and " given to the soldiers 
in addition to their regular rations." 

In addition to the food stuffs furnished by the Government and those 
purchased under orders from the general in command of the camp, an 
immense quantity of necessaries and luxuries, of food and clothing, 
was distributed by representatives of various aid societies; and no 
small amounts were brought in by visitors, who in crowds daily came 
to the hospitals and regimental camps, doing much good, but adding 
largely to the prevailing confusion, and at times, by their indiscriminate 
generosity, increasing the ill health of many of those convalescing from 
fever, whose condition necessitated very careful attention to diet. 



*Two tliousaud one liuudred poiiuds Of halibut, 47,900 (in round numbers 48,000) 
pounds of lima beans, about 400,000 pounds of ice, 21,000 pounds of evaporated 
apricots, 21,000 pounds of butter, 14,000 cans of green corn, 1,000 pounds of cocoa, 
4,000 pounds of crackers, 21,000 pounds of sugar-cured bams, 29,000 cans of evapo- 
rated cream, 23,000 pounds of oatmeal, 15,000 pounds of peaches, 18,000 pounds of 
evajjorated peaches, 12,000 pounds of canned pears, 14,000 pounds of canned pease, 
10,000 pounds of prunes, 20,000 cans of soup, 5,000 cans of pickles, 300 boxes of 
oranges, 53,000 dozen eggs, 250 pounds of tea, 28,000 gallons of fresh milk. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 219 

Disinfection of men and clothing was duly effected at quarantine 
and in the detention camp. 

The water supply seems to have been ample and of good quality, and 
there has not been presented any satisfactory evidence that the wells 
were polluted with surface drainage. 

A large well 50 feet deep, with a capacity of 300,000 gallons per day, 
was early dug, and there were other wells from which perhaps 200,000 
gallons more could be drawn. About 12 miles of pipe were laid from 
these wells, and the water carried to each regiment, where there was 
one faucet or more fropi which it could be drawn. 

From one million and a half to two million feet of lumber were used 
in the camps for the construction of storehouses and other buildings, and 
for flooring the tents, which at the general hospital were all floored 
before being used, though those at the detention and general camps 
were not so for some time after the troops arrived. 

Transportation at the camp was insuflBcient, and as a consequence 
sui)plies were not delivered as promptly as was desirable, and the trans- 
fer of sick and convalescents from the vessels to the detention camp was 
at times slower and more trying than it should have been. Much com- 
plaint was made, and justly so, of delays in getting furloughed men 
away, but the train service of the railway was enormously taxed. It 
was much to the credit of the Long Island Railroad Company, that, 
notwithstanding the great crowd of passengers carried to and from 
Montauk during the existence of Camp Wikofl, not a life was lost and 
not a person injured. 

The sanitation of the camps and hospitals while far from perfect was 
perhaps as good as might reasonably have been expected. There 
should have been more general and free use of disinfectants in and 
about the sinks, the location and protection of which were according to 
rule. There was no epidemic of yellow or typhoid fever, though it was 
both feared and predicted that there would be. 

A camp bakery was established August 27, of sufScient capacity to 
furnish all the troops with good wholesome bread, and a laundry was 
early contracted for, but it was not ready for use for a number of weeks. 
A morgue for the reception and preparation of the dead was constructed, 
but proper care of the bodies was not always taken. The Y. M. C. A. 
had large tents in the different cami)s^ in 'T^hich religious serviees were 
held, and conveniences for writing, etc., were furnished. 

The total number of troops which arrived from Cuba was 17,577, with 
those from Tampa and other places, 21,870. The number in camp 
August 20 was 7,686 ; September 1, 14,863; September 10, 14,444; Sep- 
tember 30, 3,187. 

The number of deaths to September 30 was 257. 

The camp was practically abandoned early in !N^ovember and the 
general hospital closed November 16. 

Ou the whole it may be said that Montauk Point was an ideal place 



220 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

for tLe isolation of troops who Lad been exposed to or had yellow fever, 
and for the recuperation of those greatly debilitated by malarial attacks 
of marked severity. The time allotted for prei)aration was altogether 
too short, and as a consequence the camj) was occupied long before it 
was ready. Because of this, and because of the great number of sick 
and convalescents and of those on the ground who were unconnected 
with the Army, there was much confusion, some lack of proper atten- 
tion to matters of sanitation and to the sick, and without doubt cases 
of distress, it may be neglect. But after all there was much exagger- 
ation in what was written and said about the conditions at Camp Wikoff, 
exaggeration at times intentional, generally the result of unfamiliarity 
with the life of the soldier and with the appearance of a large number 
of sick and broken-down men brought together in a limited space. 

CAMP SHIPP, ANNISTON, ALA. 

Camp Shipp was instituted September 3, and the remainder of the 
Third Corps was transferred from Camp Thomas to this place and 
placed under the command of Brig. Gen. Eoyal T. Frank. This camp 
was visited October 21-25, and the testimony of a large number of officers 
and men taken concerning their experience and observation during 
their term of service at the different camps where they had been sta- 
tioner!. An inspection was made of the camp and troops, and they 
were found in excellent condition and comfortably located upon spa- 
cious and suitable grounds. The sinks were of the regulation de])th 
and at a proper distance from the quarters of the men, and were duly 
inclosed and disinfected. 

The division and regimental hospitals were of sufficient capacity, 
and well equipped and conducted. Bathing houses for officers and men 
had been established and were in use. The command was supplied 
with pure and cool water from the city water system, which had been 
extended to every organization. This remnant of the Third Corps had 
been merged into the Second Division of the Fourth Corps, and was 
fully equipped and ready for service. The number of deaths to Sep- 
tember 30 was 12. 

CAMP WHEELER, HUNTSVILLE, ALA. 

This camp was visited October 26 and 27 and much testimony taken. 
It was instituted August 23, and was under the command of Brig. Gen. 
L. H. Carpenter. The troops encamped were the First Division, Fourth 
Corps, and the First Cavalry Brigade and Light Artillery Battalion of 
the same corps. The headquarters of the corps were at this place. 
The same conditions as to water, hospitals, sanitation and equipment, 
camping si^ace, etc., existed here as at Camp Shipp. These troops came 
largely from Camp Wikoff' and from Tampa, Fla. 

Number of deaths to September 30 was 35. 



REPORT OP THE COMMISSION. 221 

CAMP POLAND, KNOXVILLE, TENN. 

This camp was visited October 30 and 31, and the trooi)s and grounds 
inspected. The same conditions as to supply of water, space for troops, 
hospitals, salutation, etc., existed here as in the last two camps. The 
testimony of a number of oflicers and men was taken. This camp was 
instituted August 21 and was the head(pmrters of the Second Division 
of the First Corps, and was commanded by Col. J. A. Keurt of the 
Second Ohio. ISTumber of deaths to September 30 was 23. 

These troops were transferred from Camp Thouuis. 

CAMP HAMILTON, LEXINaTON, KT. 

This camp was instituted August 23, and was visited October 31 and 
November 1, and the camp and troops inspected and the testimony of 
many officers and men taken. It was the headquarters of the First 
Army Corps, Maj. Gen. J. H. Wilson commanding, the First Division 
of which was stationed there. As to situation, spaciousness, hosj)itals, 
water supply, sanitation, etc., it compared favorably with the other 
three camps heretofore described. The number of deaths to September 
30 was 29. 

These trooj^s were transferred froin Camp Thomas. 

CAMP MEADE (NEAR MIDDLETOWN), PA. 

This camp was instituted August 24, and soon thereafter was occu- 
pied by the Second Army Corps of about 22,000 men, under command 
of Maj. Gen. William M. Graham, which had been moved from Camp 
Alger. It was visited November 3 and 4, and found to be spacious and 
well laid out. The water supply was obtained from artesian wells, 
and was piped to every organization. It was both good and abundant. 
The hospitals were commodious, and well equipped and conducted. 
The bathing facilities for the men were ample. The sanitary and other 
conditions were of high order, and the camp as a whole was oi)en to but 
little criticism. The testimony of a number of officers and men was 
taken, and the troops and camp inspected. In November this camp 
was discontinued and the troops — not mustered out — distributed to 
the various camps in the South. The nuud)er of deaths to October 11 
was 64. 

The condition of these five camps illustrates the value of the expe- 
rience obtained in those in which the troops had formerly been. It 
shows conclusively that only time and experience, and both are essen- 
tial, are needed to teach officers and men the best methods for caring 
for themselves. 

In conclusion it may be said that it is impossible to bring together a 
regiment of 1,300 men whose lives and habits have all been different 
and place them in camp, subject them to its discipline, diet, and duties, 



222 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

without much complaiut. They must become acclimated and accus- 
tomed to camp life before sickness can be prevented 5 and until the 
individual soldier appreciates the necessity of complying fully with the 
regulations and confines himself to the regular food — and this the sol- 
dier never does until experience teaches him the necessity — he will 
drink polluted water, eat noxious food that disturbs his digestive 
organs, and will not take care of himself, and no discipline or watching 
will prevent it. The imprudent acts of the soldiers are the first and 
greatest cause of sickness in camps. 

Another great cause of complaint was the inexperience of officers 
and surgeons as to proper sanitation, necessity of daily exercise, 
the camping too long in one place, lack of exercise by marches and 
other methods to take up the soldier's thoughts. This occurs to 
all volunteers. It has been much less so in this war than in others, 
and there has been far less sickness and fewer deaths. The troops 
are now acclimated, their health is excellent, their discipline and 
camp sanitation showing that officers and men have all made won- 
derful progress because of experience. It would seem that little can 
be added to the cami)S as now organized to make them healthier. 
They are models of arrangement and cleanliness, and it is greatly to 
the credit of officers and men that they have made such progress in so 
short a time. No complaints come from them, and the Army as now 
constituted, except as to marksmanshij), is almost as well prepared to 
enter campaigns as the Eegular Army was at the beginning of the 
war. 

INDIVIDUAL CASES. 

A large number of complaints of neglect affecting individuals have 
been brought to the attention of the commission, respecting which evi- 
dence has been taken either by affidavit or personal examination. 
These cases arc submitted in abstract (ai^pended), together with the 
facts and conclusions arrived at by the commission. 

SANTIAGO CAMPAIGN. 

In accordance with the written request of the Major-General Com- 
manding the Army, Brig. Gen. (now Maj. Gen.) William K. Shafter was, 
on the 29th day of April, 1 898, directed, upon his arrival at Tampa, Fla., 
to assume command of all troops there assembled. This assigument 
practically determined the command of the Fifth Corps and of the 
exi)edition to the southern part of Cuba, which resulted in driving 
Cervera's fleet to its destruction by the navy and the final capture of 
the city of Santiago, with all of the Spanish forces in the province of 
Santiago de Cuba. 

The circumstance which determined the campaign was the reported 
presence of Cerv^era's fleet in the harboi' of Santiago, At 2.30 a. m. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 223 

May 31, 1898, iiistructious were sent to General Shafter, by telegraph, 
as follows : 

With the iipproval of the Secretary of War, you are directed to take your com- 
mand ou transports, proceed under convoy of tlic Navy to the vicinity of San- 
tiago do Cuba, laud your force at such place cast or west of that jioint as your 
judgment may dictate, under the iirotectiou of the Navy, and move it onto the high 
grounds and bluffs overlooking the har1)or or into the interior, as shall best enable 
you to capture or destroy the garrison there, and cover the Navy as it sends its men 
in small boats to remove torpedoes ; or, with the aid of the Navy, capture or destroy 
the Spanish fleet now reported to be in Santiago harbor. 

The Major-Geueral Cominaudiug the Army immediately repaired to 
Tami)a, and telegraphed the Secretary of War June 1, 2.35 p. m.: 

Everything is being pushed as rapidly as possible to embark troops at Tampa and 
Mobile, and a small number will be embarked at New Orleans on the Orizabo. Men 
are working day and night. 

On the 7th of June, at 7.30 p. ni., by direction of the President, infor- 
mation received from Admiral Sampson was telegraphed General 
Shafter as follows: 

If 10,000 men were here the city and fleet would be oui-s within forty-eight hours. 
Every consideration demands immediate army movement. If delayed, city will be 
defended more strongly by guns taken from fleet. 

On the same day, in a telegram received at the Executive Mansion 
at 10.15 p. m., General Shafter wired: 

I expect to have 834 officers, 16,151 men, on transports by daylight, and will sail at 
that hour. 

Before sailing, however, he was directed to wait for further orders, 
which were subsequently communicated, based upon the reported pres- 
ence of a Spanish aruied cruiser and torpedo-boat destroyer in St. 
Nicholas Channel. The alleged presence of these vessels delayed the 
departure of the expedition nearly a week, and it did not sail until 
June 13 and 14. 

The transports furnished General Shafter for his expedition were 
supposed to have a caj)acity sulhcient for 25,000 men, with quarter- 
master, subsistence, ordnance, and medical stores and supplies for sev- 
eral months. It was found on a careful inspection of the trausi)orts, 
however, that their capacity had been greatly overrated, and that 
General Shafter would be unable to embark the force at his command 
without uncomfortably crowding. He realized the necessity for sailing 
with all the troops available, and assumed the risk of the elements 
rather than land upon a hostile foreign shore with insufficient force. 
The dilemma which presented itself was clearly defined, and he deliber- 
ately assumed the risk and at the same time the responsibility therefor. 
The risk was undoubtedly well taken. The crowding of the transports 
could in any event result only in discomfort to the men and animals on 
board, or, at the worst, in the loss of a comparatively few by close con- 
finement ou crowded vessels. The effects of a failure of the campaign 



224 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

by reason of an insufficient force would have been disastrous, if not 
fatal. 

The Navy Department, on the 31st of May, 1898, sent the following 
communication to the honorable the Secretary of War : 

This Department begs leave to inquire what means are to be employed by the War 
Department for lauding the troops, artillery, horses, siege guns, mortars, and other 
heavy objects when the pending military expedition arrives on the Cuban coast 
near Santiago. 

While the Navy will be prepared to furnish all the assistance that may be in its 
power, it is obvious that the crews of the armored ships and of such others as will 
be called upon to remove the Spanish mines and to meet the Spanish ileet in action 
can not be spared for other purposes, and ought not to be fatigued by the work 
Incident to landing of the troops and stores, etc. 

This information, so far as can be ascertained, was never communi- 
cated to either General Miles or General Shafter ; the expedition there- 
fore left Tampa with no facilities for landing other than were afforded 
by the boats of the several transports conveyiLg the expedition, with 
the exception of several lighters and steam tugs of light draft, such 
as could be hastily secured. The Major-General Commanding the 
Army, who was present during the entire time in which the expedi- 
tion was being loaded, and the commander of the expedition, both 
relied upon the hearty cooperation of the Navy, which had been prom- 
ised them by its representative on the ground, with whom they were 
in communication. 

The means for landing an expedition of 17,000 men on a foreign and 
hostile shore in the face of an enemy whose presence was to be expected 
were undoubtedly insufficient. Here, again, the commander of the 
expedition assumed the risks. His orders were peremptory. The exi- 
gency of the movement admitted of no delay. He would not have been 
justified in postponing the departure of the expedition even if no means 
of disembarkation had been available except the boats of the trans- 
ports themselves. He assumed the risk of their sufiicieucy, and, as in 
the case of the crowding of the vessels, he was justified in assuming 
these risks, as the results show. War in the main is based ujion risks 
assumed. If no army moved until everything was w perfect readiness 
for the movement and success was certain, few battles would be fought 
and fewer victories won. A commander who assumes risks not alto- 
gether unreasonable in themselves and succeeds is justilied by his suc- 
cess, and is not to be held accountable for what might have been. 

The expedition reached a point off' Santiago about noon of the 20th 
of June. A conference between General Shafter, Admiral Sampson, 
and General Garcia was held at " General Rabi's place," at which the 
plan of campaign was outlined by General Shafter and approved by 
Admiral Sampson and General Garcia. A feint was to be made by 
3,000 or 4,000 men at some point west of Santiago, and the expedition to 
belauded at Daiquiri to march on Santiago; General Castillo was to 
have 1,000 men at Daiquiri to capture the escaping Spaniards while the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 225 

Navy bombiirded ; the Navy to bombard ou the morning of the 22d 
Daiquiri, Aguadores, Siboney, and Cabanas as a feint, and the whole 
expedition to land at the place hrst named. In accordance with this 
plan the Navy bombarded the places mentioned on the morning of the 
22d, and the landing was made at Daiquiri. 

The expedition as it arrived oft' the southern coast of Cuba consisted 
of the Fifth Army Corps, composed of two divisions of infantry, com- 
manded by General Kent and General Lawton, respectively; a division 
of dismounted cavalry, commanded by General Wheeler; a battalion of 
light artillery, consisting of batteries E and K of the First and A and 
F of the Second United States Artillery, and a siege artillery train, 
consisting of batteries G and H of the Fourth United States Artillery. 
The entire corps disembarked on the 22d and 23d of June, practically 
unopposed by the enemy and in the same condition as to numbers as it 
had embarked at Tampa, less two men drowned during the landing. 
Later, about the 27th of June, a brigade of volunteer infantry, com- 
manded by General Dufdeld, consisting of the Thirty-third and Thirty- 
fourth Michigan and Ninth Massachusetts regiments, about 2,500 
strong, joined General Shafter's command. 

The infantry division of General Lawton was first disembarked, fol- 
lowed by the cavalry division of General Wheeler. The Second Brigade 
of General Wheeler's division, commanded by General Young, disem- 
barked on the evening of the 22d and on the morning of the 23d. 
During the afternoon of the 23d, in order to find good camping ground 
and water, a march of several miles was made, and finally Siboney, 
where General Wheeler had his headquarters, was reached. A slight 
skirmish had taken place on the evening of the 23d. The desirable 
camping ground in the neighborhood of Siboney was all occupied by 
other troops, and General Young requested permission of General 
Wheeler to move out in the morning and drive a force of Spaniards said 
to be in the neighborhood Irom elevated ground, which he regarded as 
desirable for camping purposes. Permission was given, and in this 
way the affair of Las Guasimas was brought on. It was widely heralded 
at the time as an ambuscade, and has been later characterized as a 
disobedience of orders. It was neither. As to the former charge, it 
was absolutely foundationless, and the latter rests upon no sufficient 
evidence. 

Although not part of the plan of campaign, and a mere incident in it, 
it was deliberately planned and authorized by General Wheeler, who 
undoubtedly had authority to do so. Notwithstanding the fact, as 
stated by himself, "I was especially and repeatedly enjoined not to 
make any forward movement which would bring on an engagement 
until the entire command reached the front," he was undoubtedly sat- 
isfied, as the result showed that this was a detached outpost, and that 
no general engagement would be brought on by attacking it. 

A careful reconnoissauce revealed the enemy in an intrenched posi- 
tion in line of battle on elevated ground. General Young's brigade 
7833— VOL. 1 15 



22 <^ INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

consisted of nine tr<)Oi)s of tlie First United States Cavalry, eight 
troops of the Tentli United States Cavalry, and the First United States 
Volunteer Cavalry. The latter, uuder command of Colonel (now Major- 
General) Wood, advanced by one road, accompanied by two staff otii- 
cers of General Young; the latter accompanied the other wing, com- 
posed of the First and Tenth United States Cavalry and three Hotchkiss 
guns by another road, the two wings being about equal in number. 
The plan of attack was discussed in advance'and fully understood by 
Colonel Wood. A regular deployment was made of both wings, and 
the interval between the two was carefully guarded. The attack was 
opened by our own forces; there was no surprise, no ambuscade, no 
lack of detiniteness as to plan, and no uncertainty as to purpose. 

The Spaniards, as already remarked, were on elevated ground, in an 
intrenched i^osition in line of battle. General Young's brigade had 
been carefully deployed, the position of the enemy was thoroughly 
understood, and the only uncertainty existing in the minds of the 
officers in command of the troops wis as to wliether or not the troops 
occupying the intrenched position were Spaniards or Cubans. Gen- 
eral Wheeler says : 

We did not attack immediately. I was afraid. There was some doubt about their 
being Spaniards, and I examined their line with my glasses for about twenty-live 
minutes before giving orders to fire. I realized it would have been a terrible tbiug 
to fire into our own Cuban friends; but after half an hour I became aatistied they 
were Spaniards, and I directed a shot from a Hotchkiss gun, and the Spaniards 
replied, opening fire from a line nearly a mile long. I ordered the line to advance, 
and no soldiers could have gone forward more handsomely than onr regulars did. 
They advanced and fired with wonderful accuracy. The liriug was very ditferent 
from what I had seen years before. Thirty-three years ago we fought at short range ; 
but here we commenced at seven or eight hundred yards. We could see no smoke of 
the enemy, and we could see the fire of our men was having its eft'ect upon the enemy. 
The Spaniards fired in volley ; but when our men reached the foot of the hill upon 
which the Spaniards were stationed, they retreated toward Santiago. 

The result of this affair was a loss of 10 killed — 8 in the volunteer 
regiment and an equal number among the regular troops — and 52 
wounded. As a part of the campaign for the reduction of Santiago 
this skirmish was unimportant, but its incidental results were both 
important and, on the whole, beneficial. The volunteers were tried 
and were not found wanting; the enemy had been driven from an 
intrenched i^osition with comparatively little loss; our own soldiers 
were elated and those of the enemy correspondingly depressed; and 
the moral effect was good. General Young secured the camping 
ground which he desired for his troops, who encamped at the point 
reached by them after an exciting chase of the Spaniards for several 
miles. 

The objective points of the campaign were the city of Santiago, the 
troops garrisoning the same, and Cervera's fleet assembled in its harbor 
In order to gain the desired results the complete investment of the city 
was necessary, and was the prime object to be attained. In order to 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 227 

accomplish this it was considered necessary to reduce a small outlying 
fortified post at El Caney, 5 miles to the northeast of the city, which 
might have been flanked, but was an element of danger in the rear of 
the army. 

The time intervening between the 24tli and the 30th of June was 
occupied in landing supplies and in ascertaining the position of the 
enemy. On the 30th of June, General Shatter testities, "we were 
against their pickets in front of Santiago." In the absence of topo- 
graphical maps, careful observations as to roads and practicable trails 
and routes of march were made by engineers and other young intelli- 
gent ofBcerSj and reconnoissances made to ascertain the position and 
strength of the enemy and the practicability of the reduction of El 
Caney. As a result ot the examination of the latter, General Lawton 
and General Chafi'ee reported that they could capture it before 9 o'clock 
in the morning. General Shatter, therefore, wisely planned a movement 
which, while if carried out, would i^lace his troops in a favorable posi- 
tion around the city of Santiago, would at the same time reduce El 
Caney and eliminate that as a factor in the problem to be solved. The 
plan involved the division of the army into two distinct wings. To 
General Lawton was assigned the duty of reducing El Caney, and after 
its reduction joining the other two divisions of the corps to which had 
been assigned the duty of securing a jw-sition which would command 
the fortified lines of the enemy surrounding the city. 

General Shatter had his headquarters at a point from which he could 
conveniently communicate with both wings of his army. He was in 
close touch with them by telegraphic and telephonic communication. 
During the battle which followed he was able to witness the movements 
of both wings from an elevated position which commanded the entire 
field of operations. To guard against any jiossiblo interruption of 
electrical communication. Colonel Miley, as chief of staff, who was thor- 
oughly conversant with his plans, was sent to the left wing of the army, 
operating under Generals Wheeler and Kent, with a number of order- 
lies to be used in case of an emergency for carrying dispatches. Rely- 
ing upon the ability of Lawton to reduce El Caney by 9 o'clock in the 
morning as he expected, Wheeler's and Kent's divisions were directed 
to advance across the San Juan Kiver and capture the San Juan hill at 
10 o'clock, the presumption being that Lawton by that time would 
join the right of Wheeler's division and would be able to move with the 
balance of the corps in its advance upon the enemy. 

The plan of battle was followed by both wings of the army. General 
Lawton was occupied, however, until after 3 o'clock in capturing 
El Caney, and in moving to his assigned position in the line in front of 
Santiago encountered a force the strength of which he was unable to 
ascertain. In the meantime Generals Kent and Wheeler had advanced 
their positions, had carried the intrenchments occupied by the enemy 
upon San Juan hill, and were in plain sight of the city. Lawton was 



22 S INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

directed by Geueral Shaffcer, instead of moving directly forward, to 
return during the uiglit by tlie road upon which he had advanced the 
day previous, and by moving in the rear of the divisions already in 
position to take his assigned place on the right of General Wheeler's 
division the next morning. This was successfully accomplished by the 
morning of the 2d of July, and by noon of that day " the last musketry 
firing was over." The plan of campaign had been successfully carried 
out, and the city of Santiago was practically invested. 

While these movements were taking place on the east and northeast 
of Santiago General Garcia with a force of about 5,000 men was oper- 
ating on the northwest of the city with a view of intercepting any 
reenforcements which might attempt to find their way into the city 
from the north, considerable bodies of Spanish troops being known to 
be at Ilolguin, Guantanamo, and other points. Although not entirely 
successful in his efforts to prevent the arrival of reenforcements, his 
force served to distract the enemy and aid in the complete investment 
of the city. 

Following the movements of the army on the 1st and 2d of July, 
which resulted in the establishment of a continuous fortified line around 
the city, Admiral Oervera on the morning of the 3d of July, and as a 
result of the operations of the army, withdrew his entire fleet from the 
harbor of Santiago and met the crusliing blow at the hands of our 
Navy which sealed tlie fate of every vessel composing his fleet. 

By the 4th or 5th of July the city of Santiago was well surrounded 
and the avenues of escape by the Spanish army practically closed. 
From this time forward until the day of final surrender, on the 17th of 
Jul}^, the contest was one ratlier of diplomacy than of arms. On the 
3d of July a demand for the surrender of the city was made and refused, 
and on the same day, at the request of the consular officers of foreign 
governments in the city, information was given to the Spanish com- 
mander that the bombardment of the city would be suspended until the 
5th. yiie truce thus established was continued from time to time until 
the negotiations for surrender had resulted in the complete capitulation 
of the city and of all the Sj^anish forces within the province of Santiago 
de Cuba, numberiug between 23,000 and 24,000. 

The result of the campaign was the comidete realization of the 
several objects contemplated: The capture of the city with its forti- 
fications and munitions of war, together with immense supplies ot 
food stufls and ammunition (the former estimated by General Wood at 
1,200,000 rations); the surrender of the entire province of Santiago de 
Cuba, with all the troojjs garrisoning the same (amounting, as already 
stated, to between 23,000 and 24,000); the destruction by the Navy of 
Admiral Cervera's fleet after its departure from the harbor, and the 
general demoralization of the Spanish forces and the discomfiture of 
the Spanisli Government and people, leading almost immediately to 
overtures for peace by Siiaiu. All this was accomplished without the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 220 

loss of a prisoner, a gim, or a color, and with a list of casualties 
aggregating in killed less than 250 and in wounded less than- 1,400 — 
losses which, in comparison with results, are less than have ever here- 
tofore occurred in modern warfare. 

The cooperation of officers and men in this campaign is to be noted. 
The commander of the exi^edition was as hearty and cardial in liis com- 
mendation of all who were under his command as they were in tlieir 
devotion to the service which was demanded of them ; and, as was said 
by him in his testimony — 

From the day that the Fifth Army Corps was organized nntil its di8l)andnient 
there was never an unkind word between the general officers, not an officer was 
brought to trial, and, so far as I know, not a soldier was tried. 

THE CAMPAIGN IN PORTO RICO. 

During the time when the expedition intended for operations in Cuba 
was being fitted out at Tampa a second expedition was in contempla- 
tion, and, in a preliminary way, in preparation. It was intended for 
the assistance of the forces operating against Santiago in case rein- 
forcement was needed, and for the capture of the island of Porto Rico 
in case such help was unnecessary or after the help was rendered. It 
was part of the plan also that the force under General Shatter should, 
after the accomplishment of its work at Santiago, reinforce or supple- 
ment this expedition. It was under the immediate command of the 
Major-General Commanding the Army, Gen. Nelson A. Miles, and con- 
sisted for the most part of volunteer troops, with artillery and cavalry 
from the Regular Army, drawn from the camp at Chickamauga and 
other points. Some of the troops composing the expedition were landed 
at Santiago before its surrender, and assisted in maintaining the lines 
around the city. Although subjected to very little lighting, the moral 
effect of their presence was wholesome and stimulating. 

After the fall of Santiago yellow fever became epidemic among the 
troops operating there, and it was therefore considered undesirable to 
use any of the forces which originally composed the expedition com- 
manded by General Shatter or those which had landed at Santiago to 
assist in its reduction. In consequence of this determination, wisely 
reached. General Miles left Santiago on the 21st of July with about 
3,400 men who had not disembarked. 

The original plan of campaign involved a landing at the northeast 
corner of the island, near a place called Point Fajardo, and a move- 
ment thence toward San Juan. Two considerations induced Ceneral 
Miles to abandon the intention of landing at Point Fajardo, and to 
land instead at the harbor of Guanica, on the southern coast of the 
island. The first consideration was the fact that the intention to land 
at Point Fajardo had in some way been made public, and was antici- 
pated by the Spaniards; and the second, that the intended ])oint of 
disembarkation was an open roadstead, and that he had inadequate 



230 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

facilities for the purpose of lauding there. The harbor of Guauica was 
protected, and had dee]) water so near the shore that by the coustrac- 
tion of a ijontoon bridge from one of the transports men and animals 
were easily and quickly disembarked. 

From that point, after the disembarkation, the troops commenced a 
movement east and north, although the expeditionary force at that 
time numbered less than 3,300 oflBcers and men tit for duty, and the 
island was supposed to contain in all about 17,000 Sjianish troops. 

Within three days after the first landing, Major-Cxeneral Wilson, com- 
manding a portion of the First Corps, arrived and disembarked at 
Ponce, to the east of Guanica. Major-General Brooke arrived later 
with other troops of the First Corps and disembarked farther east, at 
Arroyo, and thence moved to Guayama. The arrival of these reen- 
forcements made the aggregate of the forces available for the expedi- 
tion approximately 10,000 men, which were later further reenforced by 
additions making the entire force, officers and men, on the date of the 
cessation of hostilities, 14,305. 

In moving from Guanica toward Ponce General Garrettson had a 
skirmish with the Spanish troops near that place and an engagement 
near Yauco, moving thence with General Henry's command to Ponce. 
General Wilson having in the meantime disembarked at the latter 
place, the force was regarded as sufficient for active operations. 

Ponce is the principal city on the southern side of the island, and is 
connected by a good military road with San Juan, the island's capital, 
on the northern side. The Spaniards, supposing that General Miles 
would move his forces by this road, intrenched themselves at Coama 
and Aibonito. General Wilson, instead of moving directly upon Coama, 
flanked the position and coming in upon its rear captured the garrison. 
In the meantime. General Brooke moved to the east and north by a cir- 
cuitous route, in order to turn the position of rhe Spaniards at Aibonito 
aiid reach their rear. General Schwan was sent to clear the western 
portion of the Island of Spanish troops. He had a sharp engagement 
at Hormigueros and captured the town of Mayaguez, which contained 
a population of about 20,000. He then moved with his command north 
and east and had another engagement at Las Marias, and was in pur- 
suit of the Spaniards, who were in retreat, when stopped by orders 
suspending hostilities. 

The general plan of campaign was to avoid a direct attack upon Aibo- 
nito, which was a supposedly strong position in the mountains; and to 
move General Schwan around the mountains westward to the north of 
the island. While he was making this movement, a trail over the 
mountains between Ajuntas and TJchnado was discovered by Gen. Eoy 
Stone, who repaired the road and made it available for the march of 
troops. Garrettson's brigade was moved over this trail, reaching the 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 231 

northern side of the mountain before the Spaniards were aware of it, 
they having neglected to either fortify or guard tbe pass. 

It was intended that this force shonkl form a j auction at Arecibo with 
General Schwau's brigade, forming a division which, under General 
Heury, was expected to move from Arecibo, which was to serve as a 
base, using the line of railroad running thence to San Juan for the 
transportation of stores. General Wilson threatening the Spanish 
troops in their front at Aibonito, arranged to move a brigade through 
the mountains so as to attack them in the rear. General Brooke also 
was expected to move to Cayey, which would block the line of retreat 
from Aibonito to San Juan. These dispositions, successfully made, 
completely flanked the position of the Spaniards at Aibonito, and must 
necessarily have resulted in its evacuation as soon as the movements of 
the forces under General Miles were discovered. Completely outma- 
neuvered, the Spaniards would have been compelled to abandon Aibo- 
nito. If the contemplated movements of our troops had been carried 
out their retreat to San Juan would have been cut off. At this 
juncture of affairs, however, notice of the signing of tlie protocol, 
and the consequent cessation of hostilities, was received, and hostile 
operations were suspended. Four days more would have concentrated 
General Miles's forces at or near San Juan, prepared for the investment 
of that place. 

The suspension of hostilities occurred on the 13th of August, about 
twenty days after the advance guard of General Miles's exi)edition 
landed upon the island. In the different movements in this campaign 
about 0,000 of our troops were under fire. There were six different 
actions of greater or less severity, in all of which our forces were 
successful. 

The total casualties of the campaign were 3 enlisted men killed and 
4 officers and 3G enlisted men Avounded. 

THE EXPEDITION TO MANILA. 

The forces intended for operations in tbe Philippine Islands left San 
Francisco, at various times during the months of May, June, and July, 
and when assembled around tlie city of Manila aggregated about 15,000, 
13,000 of whom were volunteers and the remainder troops from the 
Regular Army. Maj. Gen. Wesley Merritt was in command of these 
troops. Having landed at Cavite, on the island of Luzon, July 25, 
1898, he found the city already invested by the troops of the United 
States and the insurgent forces under General Aguinaldo. The insur- 
gents occupied a line of intrenchments on the land side of the city, 
our troops, under General Greene, occupying another line in their rear. 

After carefully reconnoitering the position General Merritt concluded 
that the attack must necessarily be made from the water side of the 
city. Preparations wore made for this attack about tlie first week in 
August. The Spanish forces consisted of from 10,000 to 15,000 troops. 



232 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Negotiations for a surrender proved fruitless, and on the 13th of August 
an attack in force was made. 

Waiting for low tide, the troops were deployed along the beach, and 
after a spirited engagement lasting for about two hours charged and 
captured the enemy's intrencliments and speedily reduced the city. 
The troops behaved with great gallantry and accomplished the result 
aimed at with comparatively little loss, the casualties aggregating 17 
killed and 9 officers and 00 enlisted men wounded. 

In this as in all the other campaigns of the war with Spain the Army 
had the active and efficient coo'peration of the JSTavy. 

The military expedition to Manila was made necessary by the destruc- 
tion of the Spanish fleet and the capture of the harbor of Manila by 
Admiral Dewey in the early part of the war; and in all military oper- 
ations around the city General Merritt and Admiral Dewey cooperated 
in the most hearty and cordial manner. En the engagement which 
resulted in the capture of Manila, the navy bombarded the city, some 
of its light-draft vessels going close to shore and shelling the intrench- 
ments, preparatory to the charge made by the troops. The cordial rela- 
tions which existed between the Army and the Navy in their joint 
operations against Manila are specially to be commended, Not only 
during active hostilities, but in the furnishing of supplies and in other 
ways, these arms of the service, owing allegiance to the same flag, 
cooperated in a way which is most gratifying to record. 

The several campaigns herein very briefly and imperfectly sketched 
reflect great credit upon the soldierly qualities of the officers and men 
of the several commands engaged in them. They were conducted 
under new and trying conditions; they were carried on for the welfare 
and uplifting of peoples foreign to our blood, but bound to us by the ties 
of a common humanity; they brought honor to our flag, and in their 
remarkable results are the wonder of the world. 



It is with profound regret that the commission reports that during 
its later sessions Col. James A. Sexton was prevented by sickness from 
being present, and ou the 4th day of February our loved colleague 
closed an honored and active life. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSION. 233 

In concluding its labors it is witli much pleasure that the commission 
reports that notwithstanding the haste with which the nation entered 
upon the war with Spain, the resulting and almost inevitable confusion 
in bureau and camp, the many difficulties of arming, assembling, and 
transporting large bodies of hitherto untrained men, the carrying on of 
active operations in two hemispheres, the people of the United States 
should ever be proud of its soldiers, who, cooperating with its sailors, 
in less than three months put an end to Spanish colonial power, enfran- 
chised oppressed people, and taught the world at large the strength 
and the nobility of a great Republic. 
Respectfully submitted. 

Grenville M. Dodge. 

Charles Denby. 

A. McD. McCooK. 

John M. Wilson. 

James A. Beaver. 

Urban A. Woodbury. 

Phineas S. Conner. 

Evan P. Howell. 



APPENDICES A TO M, INCLUSIVE. 



235 



CORRESPONDENCE. 



War Department. Washington, September 8, 1898. 
The President: 

I have the honor to ask that a board, consisting of from five to seven members, 
of the most distinguished soldiers and civilians that can be selected, be appointed 
by you, with full power to investigate thoroughly every bureau of the War 
Department in connection with the mustering, clothing, supplying, and arming 
of troops, transportation, the letting of contracts, and chartering vessels, and all 
expenditures of every kind, as well as of orders issued by this Department — 
indeed, that everything connected with the Army be thoroughly investigated for 
your information. 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



B. 

To the commission appointed by the President to investigate the conduct of the 

War Department in the tvar ivith Spain. 

Gentlemen : Before suggesting the matters which shall come before you for 
investigation, I desire to express my appreciation to each of you for your willing- 
ness to accept the patriotic service to which you have been invited. Yor. are to 
perform one of the highest ijublic duties that can fall to a citizen, and your 
unselfishness in undertaking it makes me profoundly grateful. 

There has been in many quarters severe criticism of the conduct of the war with 
Spain. Charges of criminal neglect of the soldiers in camp and field and hospital, 
and in transports, have been so persistent that, whether true or false, they have 
made a deep impression upon the country. It is my earnest desire that you shall 
thoroughly investigate these charges and make the fullest examination of the 
administration of the War Department in all of its branches, with the view to 
establishing the truth or falsity of these accusations. I put upon you no limit to 
the scope of your investigation. Of all Departments connected with the Army I 
invite the closest scrutiny and examination, and shall afford every facility for the 
most searching inquiry. The records of the War Department and the assistance 
of its officers shall be subject to your call. 

I can not impress upon you too strongly my wish that your investigation shall 
be so thorough and complete that your report, when made, will fix the responsi- 
bility for any failure or fault by reason of neglect, incompetency, or maladminis- 
tration upon the officers and bureaus responsible therefor, if it be found that the 
evils comi^lained of have existed. 

The people of the country are entitled to know whether or not the citizens who 
so i^romptly responded to the call of duty have been neglected or misused or mal- 
treated by the Government to which they so willingly gave their services. If 
there have been wrongs committed, the wrongdoers must not escape conviction 
and punishment. 

William McKinley. 
237 



238 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



EXTRACTS FROM MINUTES OF COMMISSION. 

Washington, D. C, Septevibei^ 27, 1S9S. 

On motion, duly seconded, it was determined to allow one representative of each 
of the press associations to be present during the examination of witnesses by 
this commission. 

Washington, D. C, October 3 , 1898 . 

A communication was read from the press, requesting permission to allow 
stenographers admission before the commission when taking testimony. 

It was thereui^on moved, seconded, and carried, that the press be allowed to 
have x)i"esent at the sittings of this board during the examination of witnesses 
three stenographers, two being representatives of out of town papers and one rep- 
resenting the city papers. 



D. 

EXTRACT FROM MINUTES OF COMMISSION. 

Washington, D. C, September 27. 1898. 
Resolved , first . That the Secretary of War, the Adjutant-General, the Quarter- 
master-General, the Commissary-General, and the Surgeon-General be recpiested 
to transmit to this commission all complaints that have been received by them 
since April 1, 1898, toiiching the conduct of the war. 



E. 

extract PROM MINUTES OF COMMISSION. 

Washington, D. C, September 27, 1898. 

Resolved, second, That this commission invites and is ready and willing to 
receive and considei- any comijlaints about'the management of any of the various 
branches of the War Department from any person or persons. That we respect- 
fully request that such complaints be made in writing, stating facts that the 
party may know of its own knowledge, plainly and in detail, giving names of 
any officers or enlisted men who may be charged with misconduct or incompe- 
tency, addressed to the secretary of the commission at Washington, D. C. 

Upon being duly seconded this motion was carried. 

This was given to the press, and it was requested that it be given widespread 
publicity. 



F. 

Office of Commission Appointed by the President 

to Investigate the Conduct of the War 

Department in the War with Spain, 

Washington, , 189 — . 

Dear Sir: Referring to your communication of , the commission requests 

that, upon receipt of this, you will forward a written statement. gi\dng in as 
specific and complete a form as may be practicable all facts, based upon your 



CORRESPONDENCE. 239 

owii ijersonal expeiience and knowledge, that will aid the pending investigation. 
This statement will be for the information of the commission only. 
Very respectfully, 

, Secretary. 



G. 

Washington, D. C, Septemlwr 26, 1898. 
The Secretary of War. 

Sir: Pursuant to aiTthority conferred upon us by the President, we have the 
honor to request that you direct the Adjiitant-General, the Quartermaster- 
General, the Commissary-General, the Surgeon-General, the Chief of Ordnance, 
and the Chief of Engineers to fiirnish us as soon as practicable information as to 
the condition of their several departments at the time of the declaration of war 
with Spain and the operations of those departments from that time until the 
present. We desire the information to include the following, viz: 

First. The times and places of the mobilization of the regular and volunteer 
troops. 

Second. The organization of those troops into the various siibdivisions of the 
Army, and the personnel of the brigade, division, corps, and army commanders, 
and of their staffs, whether appointed from the permanent establishment, from 
the National Guard, or from civil life. 

Third. The amount and kind of camp and garrison equipage and other supplies 
that were on hand at the beginning of the war, the amount subseqiiently pur- 
chased, when and where purchased, when and where delivered to your Depart- 
ment, and when and where actually issued to the troops. 

Fourth. Similar information in regard to furnishing the troops with arms and 
accouterments. 

Fifth. Which of the volunteers were armed and equipped in the various State 
camps, and which in the general camp. 

Sixth. Upon whose recommendation or judgment the various general rendez- 
vous were selected, and the reason for such selection. 

Seventh. Full ijarticulars relative to the transportation of troops by sea, giv- 
ing an account of the provisions made for the accommodation and care of the sick 
and wounded. 

Eighth. An account of the quantity, (luality, and kind of food furnished the 
troops, and in case any of them failed of being jilentifully and seasonably sup- 
Ijlied, state the reasons therefor. 

Ninth. As to the jn'oper tentage, beds, linen, medicine, food, and all other nec- 
essary ecpiipment and supplies for the use of the Hosintal Corps of the Army. 
If there was any lack of these things at any time state the reasons therefor. 

Tenth. Whether the medical staff was efficient and sufficient at all times for 
the proper care of the sick and wounded; and if not, state the reasons therefor. 

Eleventh. Siich information relative to the conditions and operations of the Ord- 
nance and Engineering departments as will be of value to us in oiir investigation. 

We have outlined briefly a x'ortion only of the information that we trust you 
will be able to give us. It will be satisfactory to have it communicated to lis in 
writing or by the chiefs of the several bureaus in person, with the submission of 
such records confirming their statements as they may be pleased to hand us. 



240 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

To aid you in complying with this request there is submitted herewith a list of 
special questions, to which, so far as is possible, answers are desired. 
Very respectfully, 

Grenville M. Dodge, President. 



INFORMATION DESIRED FROM SECRETARY OF WAR. 

1. Plan of campaign proposed immediately after the declaration of war; was it 
intended to move at once on Havana or that the campaign should be postponed 
until the aiTtumn? 

3. When was the Santiago campaign determined upon? 

3. Why was Tampa selected as the base of operations? 

4. Why were summer cam^js organized at Fernandina, Jacksonville, and Tampa? 

5. When was the Porto Rico campaign determined upon? 

6. Why were the troops held on transports after embarkation at Tampa and 
not permitted to sail for several days? 



INFORMATION DESIRED FROM ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 

1. Number of troops available for duty jiTst before war was declared. 

2. Number of men enlisted in Regular Army under authority of the law author- 
izing placing it ui)on a war footing. 

3. Number of volunteer regiments mustei'ed in, number of officers appointed, 
and number of men enlisted under the first call of the President. 

4. Number of volunteer regiments mustered in, number of officers appointed, 
and number of men enlisted under the second call of the President. 

5. Maximum number of officers and enlisted men in the regular and volunteer 
forces during the war. 

6. Number of officers appointed in the volunteer service in each staff depart- 
ment during the war. 

7. Number of regiments of regulars and of volunteers, with maxinnim numltei- 
of troops, operating in Cuba in the Santiago campaign, with the organization of 
the command; its commanding general; coi-ps, division, and brigade commanders; 
the number of officers and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who 
have died from wounds or disease. 

8. Number of regiments of regulars and of volunteers, with maximum number 
of troops, operating in Porto Rico, with the organization of the command; its 
commanding general; corps, division, and brigade commanders: the number of 
officers and enlisted men killed and woiinded, and the number who have died 
from wounds or disease. 

9. Number of regiments of regiilars and of volunteers, with maximiim number 
of troops, operating in the Philippine Islands, with the organization of the com- 
mands; its commanding general; corjjs, division, and brigade commanders; the 
number of officers and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who 
have died from wounds or disease. 

10. Location of cam^js in the United States; by whom selected; niimber of 
regiments and number of officers and enlisted men of regulars and of volunteers at 
each camp; organization of camps; names of commanding generals, together with 
names of division and brigade commanders; length of time each camp was main- 
tained; and number of deaths by disease at each camp. 

11. Finally, all reports of officers in the Inspector-General's Department. 



CORKESPONDENCE. 241 

INFORMATION DESIRED FROM (QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 

1. Upon tlie declaration of war, was the organization and were the regulations 
of the Department of such a character as to admit of the prompt equipment and 
movement of troops ? 

2. How many officers belonged to the Department when war was declared, and 
how many (with their rank) have been appointed in the vohinteer service since 
that time ? 

3. For an army of what size was the Department prepared to fully supi^ly all 
necessary clothing and camp and gariison equipage on April 1, 1898? 

4. Was the clothing on hand and ready for issue to troops and that previously 
issued of a character suitable for use in a troijical climate ? 

5. What amount of teiitage was available, and were the troops sent from gar- 
rison life to the field at once furnished with necessary tentage and other quar- 
termaster supplies necessary for use in camp life ? 

6. What steps were taken for fully supplying an army of 250,000 men with 
suitable clothing and camp and gaiTison eqiiipage, and what amount of material 
of each kind had been obtained and what amount issued up to August 31 , 1898 ? 

7. How many public animals and how many wagons with harness were avail- 
able April 1,1898? 

8. What steps were taken for obtaining animals, wagons, and harness; how were 
they obtained, and what number had been purchased and issued by August 31, 
1898? 

9. What arrangements had been made previous to April 1, 1898, for the rapid 
movement of troops by land and by water ? 

10. What arrangements were made and how many trooi^s were actually moved 
by railroad and by vessel between April 1 and August 31, 1898? 

11. Were full and complete arrangements made for sui)plying the troops oper- 
ating in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philipijines with suitable clothing and with 
camp and garrison equiijage and ciuartermaster's stores for armies operating in 
the field? 

12. How many and what vessels were purchased or chartered for transportation 
of troops ? What was the capacity of each vessel ? Was it properly arranged for 
the comfort of the troops, so far as possible? Was there a full sujjply of water 
for use of troops arranged in every case, and was each and every vessel carefully 
inspected by an officer or agent of the Department and pronoiinced satisfactory 
before troops were permitted to embark ? 

13. What arrangements were made for the disembarkation of troops when there 
was a possibility of it being done outside of a harbor ? 

14. When so-called jjermanent camps were located for a large force, what 
arrangements were made for a full and complete supply of potable water for use 
of troops ? Were tent floors furnished in any cases other than for hospitals ? If 
so, where and to whom ? 

15. When troops were moved by rail for long distances were there any arrange- 
ments made for a supply of water ? Were there any unnecessary delays in the 
movements of troops from the camps established on the return of the army from 
Cuba ? 

16. What, if any, confijlaints, in writing, have been received by the Quarter- 
master-G-eneral in reference to the i^rompt compliance with proper requisitions, 
or complaints of any character in reference to the operations of the Department 
in connection with the movement of troops, the issuing of proper and necessary 
supplies, or the iierformance of any diTty appertaining to the Quartermaster's 
Department ? 

17. What funds were at the command of the Department April 1. 1898, and 
what additional funds were available by August 31, 1898, under general or 
special legislation ? 

7833— VOL. 1 16 



242 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

INFORMATION DESIRED FROM ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT. 

1. What was the organization of the Deimrtment on April 1, 1898? 

2. How many arsenals were there where ordnance materials were being manu- 
facttired, and what was their daily capacity? 

3. On April 1, 1898, what were the conditions in reference to the following: 
How many modern, high-power, heavy breech-loading rifle guns were available, 

and what were their calibers? 

How many gun carriages of each class were available ? 

How many 12-inch B. L. rifled mortars were available ? 

How many 12-inch B. L. rifled-mortar caifiages were available? 

How many rapid-fire guns and of what caliber, together with their mounts, were 
available ? 

How much black powder for heavy and rapid-fire guns was available ? 

How much smokeless powder for heavy and rapid-fire guns was available ? 

How many projectiles for each class of H. P. guns, rifled mortars, and rapid- 
fire guns were available ? 

How many rifled siege guns, howitzers, and mortars, and of what caliber, with 
their carriages, were available, and what ammunition was ready for them? Was 
the powder black or smokeless ? 

How many rifled field guns, and of what caliber, with their carriages, neces- 
sary harness, etc., were available, and what ammunition was ready for them? 
Was the powder black or smokeless ? 

How many machine guns, with their mounts, were available, and what ammu- 
nition was ready for them? Was the powder black or smokeless ? 

How many rifles and of what caliber were ready for issue to troops, and what 
amount of ammunition was ready? Was the powder black or smokeless? 

How many carbines, how many pistols, and how many sabers, with belts, etc., 
were ready for issue, and what .amount of ammunition for the carbines and pistols 
was ready ? Was the powder black or smokeless ? 

How many sets of horse equipments for cavalry and light artillery were ready ? 

How many knapsacks, haversacks, meat cans, tin cups, knives, forks, and 
spoons were ready ? 

An army of what size was the Ordnance Department prepared to completely 
equip in every respect ready for field service, with necessary artillery, small arms, 
ammunition, and all articles furnished by that department on April 1, 1898? 

4. By August 31 , what of the articles mentioned in addition to those on hand 
April 1 had been obtained, how obtained, and how much had been issiied ? 

5. What, if any, complaints in writing have been received by the Chief of 
Ordnance in reference to the prompt compliance with proper requisitions, or com- 
plaints of any character in reference to the operations of the Ordnance Depart- 
ment in connection with furnishing necessary armament for permanent defenses 
or seige and field artillery, rifles, equipments for infantry, artillery, and cavalry, 
and ammunition of all kinds ? 

(j. What funds were under the control of the Department April 1, 1898, and 
what additional funds were available by August 31, iinder general or special 
le^'islation ? 



INFORMATION DESIRED FROM THE SUBSISTENCE DEPARTMENT. 

1. What was the organization of the Subsistence Department April 1, 1898, the 
number and I'ank of officers, and number of commissary sergeants? 

2. What additions in number and rank of regular officers and what number 
of volunteer officers v/ere appointed in the Subsistence Department between 
April 1 and August 31? 



CORRESPONDENCE. 243 

3. On April 1, 1898, an army of what size was the Subsistence Department pre- 
pared to fully supply with officers and the necessary field rations, and of what 
does that ration consist? 

4. Between April 1, 18'J8, and August 'SI what arrangements were made for 
fully supplying with food an army of 2.-)0,000 men serving in the field and in 
camp; what was the field ration, and what was the ration in camp? 

5. What arrangements were made for supplying the army in Cuba, the army in 
Porto Rico, and the army in the Philipijines, and of what did the ration actiially 
consist in each camj)? 

6. Were the troops in the field and those in camjis fully supplied at all times 
with i^roper food? If not, why not? 

7. What, if any, complaints in writing have been received by the Commissary- 
General in reference to the promi^t compliance with requisitions, the lack of food, 
poor character of food, or complaints of any character whatever in reference to 
furnishing supplies, or the performance of any duty appertaining to the Subsist- 
ence Department? 

8. What funds were tinder the command of the department on Ai^ril 1, and 
what additional funds were available by August 81 under general or special legis- 
lation? 



INFORMATION DESIRED FROM MEDICAL DEPARTMENT. 

1. Wliat was the organization of the Medical De])artment on April 1, 1898? 
How many officers with their rank, how many hospital stewards, and what was 
the size of the hospital corps? 

2. How many ambulances and litters were available? 

8. An army of what size was the department able to c(jmpletely fit out with 
medical officers, stewards, and hospital corps and necessary surgical instriiments, 
and supplies of every character? 

4. Between April 1 and August 81, 1898, what steps were taken for fully sup- 
plying an army of 250,000 men with all necessary surgeons, stewards, hospital 
corps, ambulances, litters, surgical instruments, and medical supijlies of all and 
every character? 

.5. How many general hospitals were organized, where located, how equipped 
and managed, number of patients, and number of deaths in each case, between 
April 1 and August 81, 1898? 

6. How many hosiiitals were estaljlished n.t various camps, what were the 
arrangements for the care and comfort of the sick and wounded, how many sick 
were cared for at each camp hospital, and how many deaths occurred? 

7. What, if any. railroad ambulance trains were established, where were they 
located and used? 

8. How many hospital ships were obtained, how were they equipped, how man- 
aged, and what work did they i^erfonn. What arrangements were made and 
how were the armies operating in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philii^pines supplied 
^^'ith medical (jfficers, medical supplies, and food for the sick and wounded? 

9. What number of siTrgeons of volunteers, hosjntal stewards, nurses, attend- 
ants, etc., were employed between Ainil 1 and Aiigust 81, in addition to those in 
the service of the United States on April 1, 1898? 

10. Were all vessels used in transporting sick and woiinded thoroughly inspected 
by a medical officer before troops were permitted to embark, and were they fully 
supplied with surgeons, surgical instruments, medical supplies of every charac- 
ter, xjotable water, and prosier food for sick and convalescents? 

11. Were the armies operating in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philijipines fully 
supplied with efficient surgeons, stewards, and hospital corps, and with ambu- 



244 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

lances, litters, surgical instrimieiits. medical sapplies of all kiinls, anrl proper 
food for the sick and wounded? 

12. Were tlie chief surgeons in the various camps instructed to carefully watch 
their sanitary condition, to look after their cleanliness, to demand the proper 
svipply of water, to test the water as to its character, to look into the cooking 
arrangements, and to locate the sinks and to see to their propei' care? 

13. Why were regimental hospitals in camps abolished and division hospitals 
substituted? Were the results satisfactory? 

14. How were the surgeons enijjloyed in the field, in tents, and in general liospi- 
tals selected? Was there any regular examination rec^uired, and as a rule have 
they proved efficient and faithful? 

15. How were the hospital stewards, nurses, and attendants selected? 

16. What, if any, comi^laints in writing have been received by the Surgeon- 
General in reference to the prompt comiiliance with requisitions, the lack of 
proper medical attendance, the lack of surgical instruments, the lack of proper 
care, food and water for the sick and wounded with armies in the field, or with 
troops in canix) or men in general hospitals and field hospitals, or on railroad 
trains or transports at sea; in fact, what, if any, complaints have been made in 
wi'iting in reference to the issuing of proper supplies oi' performance of any duty 
appertaining to the Medical Department of the Army? 

17. What funds were at the command of the Department on Aiiril 1, and what 
additional funds were available by August 31 , under general or special legislation? 



H. 

War Department, Wii.sJiinyton. Octobi-rO, 1S9S. 
Maj. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, 

President C'onimisiiio)i appointed hy the President to In restigute 

the Conduct of the War Department in tlie War with. Spain. * 
Sir: I have the honor herewith to hand you information desired from the Sec- 
retary of War, as referred to in your letter of September 27, 1898. 
Very respectfully, 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



INFORMATION DESIRED FROM SECRETARY OP WAR. 

1. Plan of campaign proposed immediately after the declaration of war; was it 
intended to move at once on Havana, or that the campaign should be postponed 
until the autumn? 

Answer. Immediate blockade by the Navy (jf the important ports of Cuba, as 
directed by the President's jiroclamation. The holding of troops at points nearest 
to Cuba to be available in any emergency which might arise, and especially to be 
ready for jirompt assistance in case the operations of the Navy should make the 
use of land forces necessary or desirable. 

Early in May a i)lan was partially matured to land a force at Mariel, a point 
about 26 miles west of Havana, reports having l)een received that in its immediate 
vicinity were higli grounds, well watered and suitable f(3r camping troops pre- 
paratory for a movement upon Havana later if it was deemed advisable; the 
thought being that i^ossibly an assault niight be made upon the forces defending 
that city before the rainy season set in. Orders were issued to that effect on May 
9, but subsequently plans were changed on account of further information that 
there woiild be great danger to the health of the troops in that vicinity, and also 
on account of the uncertainty of the movements of tlie enemy's fleet. It was 



CORRESPONDENCE 245 

tlien determined to keep the forces in the United States at points as near Cuba 
as possible for immediate embarkation should an emergency demand it. The 
Santiago campaign proved to be that emergency. 

It should be added further that it was believed, after consultation with medical 
authorities, that troops camping in Southern States during the summer would 
become somewhat acclimated for their services in Cuba. 

2. When was the Santiago campaign determined upon? 

Answer. The Santiago campaign was made necessary by the presence c^f Ad- 
miral Cervera's fleet in Santiago Harbor, but had previously been contemplated 
as one point on the coast where a reconnaissance in force was to be made to 
ascertain the strength of the enemy in the different locations in eastern Cuba. 
The immediate destruction of Admiral Cervera's fleet was necessary; and, to 
enable the Navy to accomplish this, the military force, under Major-G-eneral 
Shatter, U. S. Volunteers, was directed to move at once on the city and Province 
of Santiago. This movement was hastened by reason of a telegram received 
from Admiral Sampson on June 7, stating that he had bombarded forts at San- 
tiago June G and silenced works quickly; and if 10.000 men were there, city and 
fleet could be captured within forty-eight hours. 

(See copies of telegrams herewith attached, marked "A," " B," " C," " D," " E," 
"F,"'-G,""H.") 

It is proper to state that after the date of this message the Spanish garrison 
was largely reenforced. The opinion of Admiral Sampson was doubtless correct 
at the time. The troops sailed from Tampa on June 14, 1898, with 16,988 officers 
and men. 

3. Why was Tampa selected as the base of operations? 

Answer. On account of the shipping facilities at that point and its comparative 
short distance from Cuba, rendering any movement of the troops possible on 
short notice as the progress of the blockade or any other sudden condition might 
reqiiire. 

f. Why were summer camps organized at Fernandina. Jacksonville, and 
Tami)a? 

Answer. All of the early camps in the South were selected with special regard 
for the health of the troops and their convenience for prompt movement by rail 
and water. The cami) at Fernandina was organized on the recommendation of the 
Major-General Commanding the Army. The camp at Jacksonville was selected 
on the recommendation of Major-General Lee, U. S. Volunteers, commanding 
Seventh Army Corps (coi>y of telegram herewith attached marked "I"). A 
permanent camp was never contemplated at Tampa. Troops were sent there 
preparatory for embarkation, and were kept there to be ready for any emergency, 
and. later, to embark for Porto Rico ; and upon the signing of the protocol the 
troops, being no longer required at Tampa, were sent to Huntsville, Ala., a camp 
selected by officers detailed to ascertain best camping site, having in view health 
and comfort of the soldiers. 

5. When was the Porto Rico campaign determined iiiion? 

Answer. The Porto Rico campaign had been long under consideration, and the 
oi-ders to carry it out were issued June 26, 1898. (See copy of letter herewith, 
marked "J," to Major-General Miles, U. S. Army.) 

6. Why were the troops held on transports after embarkation at Tampa and 
not permitted to sail for several days? 

Answer. Troops were held on transports after embarkation at Tampa on 
account of the advice received from Commodore Remey that "Spanish cruiser, 
second class, and Spanish torpedo-boat destroyer seen by Eagle, Nicholas Chan- 
nel, Cuba; destroy convoy." 

(See copies of telegrams from the Navy Department herewith marked "K,'' 



24G INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



War Department, Washington, May 30, 1S9S. 

(Sent in cipher May 31, 1898, 2.30 a. ni.) 
Maj. Gen. William E-. Shafter, Tampa, Fla.: 

With the approval of the Secretary of War, you are directed to take your com- 
mand on transports, proceed under convoy of the navy to the vicinity of Santiago 
de Cuba, land your force at such place east or west of that point as your judg- 
ment may dictate, tinder the protection of the navy, and move it onto the high 
ground and blxTffs overlooking the harbor, or into the interior, as shall best enable 
you to capture or destroy the garrison there and cover the navy as it sends its 
men in small boats to remove torpedoes, or, with the aid of the navy, capture or 
destroy the Spanish fleet now reported to be in Santiago harbor. You will use 
the utmost energy to accomplish this enterprise, and the Government relies upon 
your good judgment as to the most judicious iTse of your command, but desires 
to impress upon you the importance of accomplishing this object with the least 
possible delay. . You can call to your assistance any of the insurgent forces in 
that vicinity and make use of such of them as you think advisable to assist you, 
especially as scouts, guides, etc. You are cautioned against putting too much 
confidence in any persons oiTtside of your troops. You will take every precaution 
against ambiiscades or surprises or positions that may have been mined or are 
commanded T)y the Spanish forces. You will cooperate most earnestly with the 
naval forces in every way, agreeing beforehand upon a code of signals. Com- 
municate your instructions to Admiral Sampson and Commodore Schley. On 
completion of this enterprise, unless you receive other orders or deem it advisable 
to remain in the harbor of Santiago de Cuba, reembark your troops and proceed 
to the harbor of Pto de Banes, reporting by the most favorable means for further 
orders and future important service— this with the understanding that your com- 
mand has not sustained serious loss and that the above harbor is safe for your 
transports and convoy. When will yoxi sail? 

By command of Major-General Miles: 

H. C. Corbin. Adjittant-General. 



B. 

Executive Mansion, Washington. June 7, ISOS. 
General Shafter, Tnmpa, Fla.: 

Information from Sampson says he has practically reduced fortifications and 
only waits your arrival to occupy Santiago. Time is the essence of the situ- 
ation. Early departure of first importance. 
By order of the Secretary of War: 

H. C. Corbin, Adjutant-Oeneral. 



Executive Mansion. Washington, June 7, ISOS — 7.50 j^- m. 
General Shafter, TamxM, Fla.: 

That you may know the exact situation, the President directs me to send you 
the following from Sampson: 

Bombarded forts at Santiago, 7.30 to 10 a. m. to-day, June 6. Have silenced 
works quickly without injury of any kind, though stationed 2,000 yards. If 
10,000 men were here city and fleet could be ours within forty-eight hours. Every 



CORRESPONDENCE. . 247 

consideration demands immediate army movement. If delayed city will he 
defended more strongly by gnns taken from fleet. 

Sampson. 

He further says that you will sail as indicated in your telegram, but with not 
less than 10,000 men. 

H. C. CORBIN, Adjutant-General. 



D. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, June 7. ISOS. 
Major-General Shafter, Port Tampa, Fla.: 
You will sail immediately, as you are needed at destination at once. Answer. 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



E. 

Kxecutive Mansion, WasJn'ngton. June 7. 1S9S — S.50 p. m. 

Major-General Shafter, Port Tampa, Fla.: 

Since telegraphing you an hour since, the President directs you sail at once 

with what force you have ready. 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



F. 

Tampa, Fla.. June 7, ISOS — ,9 p. m. 
Secretary of War, 

Washington, D. C: 
I will sail to-morrow morning. Steam can not be got u]> earlier. There is 
loaded to-night 1 division of infantry, 9 regiments, 1(5 companies of dismotmted 
cavalry, 4 light batteries. 2 siege batteries artillery. 2 companies of engineers, 
and the troops from Mobile. I mil try and get on the rest of the cavalry and 
another division of regular infantry by morning. I will sail then with whatever 

I have on board. 

Shafter, Major-General. 



G. 
Adjutant-Generals Office, Waslinujfov. June 7, 1S9S. 

Major-General Shafter, Tampa, Fla.: 
The last thing before sailing, telegraph roster of regiments. 

By order Secretaiy of War: 

H. C. CoRHiN. Adjdtaiil-drncral. 



H. 

Tampa. Fla., June 7, ISOS — 10.15 p. m. 
(Receive'd at Executive Mansion, Washington.) 
Adjutant-General Corbin : 

I expect to have S:54 officers. ir).l.")4 men on transports by ihiylight ;iiiil will sail 
at that hour. Will wire particulars before starting. 

Shafter. 



24S INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT oF WAK WITH SPAIN. 



[Copy of telegram.] 

Windsor Hotel, Jacksoninlle, Fla., June 1, 1S98. 
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, 

Washington, D. C: 
He;ul(iiiarters estuhlished at this point ; plenty of room here and in vicinity for 
whole corps. Fine camping gronnd ; plenty of water for all purposes. Great 
facilities for emjjarking troops. Eighteen feet of water at city wharves. Only 
five regiments here, and two of those ordered to he ready to move to Tampa. 
Please send more regiments as early as possible in order that I may organize 
corps. Can not the Virginia regiments come at once ? Request that quarter- 
master and commissary depots be established here immediately. Please order 
Miller. Corps quartermaster reports need his-services badly. 

Lee, Major-General . 



War Department. Washington, June 26, 1S9S. 
Maj. Gen. Nelson A. Miles, U. S. Army. Washington, D. C. 

Sir: By direction of the President an expedition will be organized with the 
least possible delay, under the innnediate command of Major-General Brooke, 
U. S. Army, consisting of three divisions taken from the troops best equipped in 
the First and Third Army Corps, and two divisions from the Fourth Army Corps, 
for movement and operation against the enemy in Cuba and Porto Rico. The 
command under Major-General Shaffer, or such part thereof as can be spared 
from the work now in hand, will join the foregoing expedition, and you will 
command the forces thus united in person. 

Transports for this service will be assembled at Tampa with the least possible 
delay. The naval forces will firrnish convoy and cooperate with yoii in accom- 
plishing the object in view. You will place yourself in close touch with the 
senior officer of the Navy in those waters, with the view to harmonious and 
forceful action. 

Estimates will be made by you immediately on the several staff departments 
for the necessary supplies and subsistence; such estimates to be submitted to the 
Secretary of War. 

For the information of the President, copies of all orders and instruction 
given Ijy you from time to time will be forwarded on the day of their issue to the 
Adjutant-General of the Army. Also daily reports of the state and condition of 
your command will be made to the Secretary of War direct. 

It is important that immediate prejiaration be made for this movement, and, 
when ready, report to this Department for further instructions. 
Very respectfully, 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



K. 



[Copy of telegram.] 



War Department, Washington, D. C, June S, 1S9S. 
Major-General Shafter, Tampa, Fla. : 
Wait until yoii get further orders before you sail. Answer quick. 

R. A. Alger, Seeretary of War. 



CORRESPONDENCE. 249 

L. 

[Copy of telegram.] 

War Department, Washington. D. C, Junes, 1898. 
Major-General Miles, Port Tampa, Fla.: 

I have sent the following telegram to Major-General Shatter : •• Wait until yon 
get further orders before, yon sail. Answer quick." 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



M. 

[Copy of telegram.] 
War Department, Washington. D. C, June 8, 1898. 
Major-General Miles, Tampa. Fla.: 

The reason for countermanding order you ^vill find in the following. The order 
was given at the request of the Navy Department, by direction of the President. 

" Key West, June 8. 
"Spanish anuor cruiser. second class, and Spanish torpedo-boat destroyer seen 
by Eagle, Nicholas Channel, Cuba. Destroy convoy. Detail follow. 

■•Remey." 

" Key West, June 8. 
"Last cipher just came by i2e.soZufe, just arrived. Was pursued by two ves- 
sels, Nicholas Channel, Cuba, last night. Shall I order Indiana and all available 
cruisers to coast of Cuba ? More detail to follow. 

■'Remey." 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



REPLY OF THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL, U. S. A., TO INQUIRIES BY THE 

COMML^SION INVESTIGATING THE CONDUCT OF THE WAR 

DEPARTMENT IN THE WAR WITH SPAIN. 



251 



NFORMATION DESIRED FROM ADJUTANT 

GENERAL. 



1. Number of troops available for duty just before war was declared. (See 
page 4. ) 

2. Niimber of men enlisted in Regular Army under authority of the law author- 
izing placing it upon a war footing. (See page 4.) 

o. Number of volunteer regiments mustered in, number of officers appointed, 
and number of men enlisted under the first call of the President. (See page 5.) 

4. Number of volunteer regiments mustered in, number of officers appointed, 
and number of men enlisted under the second call of the President. (See page (1. ) 

o. Maximum number of officers and enlisted men in the regular and volunteer 
forces during the war. ( See page 4. ) 

6. Number of officers appointed in the volunteer service in each staff depart- 
ment during the war. ( See page 4. ) 

7. Number of regiments of regulars and of volunteers, with maximum number 
of troops, operating in Cuba in the Santiago campaign, with the organization of 
the command, its commanding general, corps, division, and brigade commanders, 
the number of officers and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who 
have died from wounds or disease. (See pages 10-14.) 

8. Number of regiments of regulars and of vuhinteers, with maximum number 
of troops, operating in Porto Rico, with the organization of the command, its 
commanding general, corps, division, and brigade commanders, the number of 
officers and enlisted men killed and wounded, and the number who have died 
from wounds or disease. (See page 14.) 

9. Numb>'r of regiments of regulars and of volunteers, with maximum number 
of troops, operating in the Philippine Islands, with the organization of the com- 
mand, its commanding general, corps, division, and brigade commanders, the 
number of officers and enlisted men killed and woimded, and the number who 
have died from wounds or disease. (See page 15.) 

10. Location of camps in the United States, by whom selected; number of regi- 
ments and number of officers and enlisted men of regulars and of volunteers at 
each camp; organization of camps, names of commanding generals, together with 
names of division and brigade commanders, length of time each camp was main- 
tained, and number of deaths by disease at each camp. (See page 10.) 

11. Finally, all reports of officers in the Inspector-General's Department. 
(Already furnished by the In.spector-General.) 

253 



254 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Strength op the Regular and Volunteer Forces of the United States 
April 1, 1898, and at the End of Each Month from May to August, 
1898, Inclusive, as Shown by the Latest Returns Received at the 
Adjutant-General's Office. 

The strength of the Regular Army April 1, 1898, just before the breaking out 
of the war, was as follows: 



Organization. 



General officers and staff corps . 

Cavalry - 

Artillery - - - 

Infantry 

Miscellaneous - - - 



Total 



Officers. 



532 

437 

288 
880 



2,143 



Enlisted 
men. 



2,026 
6.047 
4,486 
12,826 
653 



26,040 



In the following months the strength was as follows: 

STRENGTH OF THE REGULAR ARMY. 





. May. 


Jnne. 


July. 


August. 


Organization. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Offi- . 
cers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


General officers and staffs. . . 


535 
435 
305 
916 


2,674 
7,835 
7,560 
15,296 
8,569 


535 
430 
317 
916 


5,012 
9,912 
9,065 
17,333 
8.191 


550 
419 
369 

989 


6,553 
10,591 
11,»)8 
18,833 

6,496 


548 
419 
369 

987 


7,980 
11,594 


Artillery ._ 


12,454 
22,4.58 




1,879 








Total ■ . . 


2,191 


41,934 


2,198 


49,513 


2,327 


53,931 


2,232 


a 56, 365 










9,569 




9,311 




6,586 




3.400 









a Includes 5,:5«j.") men of Hospital Corps, which are exclusive of au thorized strength. 
STRENGTH OF THE VOLUNTEER ARMY. 





11 
25 

54 

19 

6 

34 
25 
19 

12 
10 




12 
70 

98 

30 

82 
87 
84 
65 
24 




18 
70 

100 

27 

8 

114 

106 
99 
80 
28 
20 
112 
108 
292 
93 
120 
7,2:38 




21 

71 

99 
25 

8 

121 

108 

113 

86 

28 

24 

111 

1.50 

289 

92 

120 

7,319 




Brigadier-generals. 

Adjutant-General's Depart- 


















Inspector-General'sDepart- 










Judge- Ad vocate-Gener a 1' s 










Quartermaster-Ge ne r a 1 ' s 










Subsist em ■(> Department 

Medi<-al Department ., 












































10 




101 
81 

292 

83 

84 

5,969 


897 

704 

6,920 

2,010 

2,979 

139,845 


1,089 
2,458 
7,221 
2,540 
4,405 
ia5, 748 


1,173 






3,286 




285 

&3 

69 

5,562 


5,972 

1,836 

1,706 

109,066 


7,003 




2,570 


Light artillery. 


4,265 

188,947 






Total 


6,224 


118,580 


7,169 


153,355 


8,633 


203,461 


8,785 


207,244 







SUMMARY. 



Volunteer Army 

Regular Army 


6,224 
2, 191 


118,580 
41,9;M 


7,169 
2,198 


153,355 
49,513 


8.633 
2,327 


203,461 
53,931 


8,785 
2,323 


207,244 
56,365 


Army of the United 
States 


8, 415 


160,514 


9,367 


202,868 


10,960 


257,392 


11,108 


263,609 



The maximum strength of the Army, both regular and vohmteer, was attained 
in August. 



REPLY or ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 



255 



Of the volunteer force in service August :il, the following were also officers 
the Regular Army: 

Major-generals _ - . - . - - 

Brigadier-generals 

Assistant adjutants-general. _ . 

Inspectors-general - 

Judge-advocates 

Quartermasters -_. -. — — 

Commissaries of Subsistence 

Medical officers -• 

Paymaster 

Engineers 

Ordinance officers -■ 

Signal officers 

Officers of volunteer regiments , . - 



of 

15 
45 
58 
16 

3 
45 
21 
44 

1 
22 
21 
12 
86 



Total ---- ^^'^ 

The following apportionment was made for the several States and Territories 
and the District of Columbia ; 

FIRST CALL, 12i-i,000 MEN. 





Infantry. 


Artillery. 


Cavalry. 


State or Territory. 


Regi- 
ments. 


Battal- 
ions. 


Light. 


Heavy. 


Regi- 
ment. 


Troops. 




3 
1 

1 
1 
1 

a 

7 
4 
i 
3 
3 

i 

1 

4 
4 
3 

3 
5 

1 

a 

1 

3 
13 
3 

8 
1 
15 
1 
1 
3 
3 


1 




















California - 


3 




4 
















1 


2 






























2 

1 

2 














1 












































2 




















1 
















Massachusetts 






1 










































1 


















Nebraska - 


































New York . . . - 










. 2 
















4 




8 














3 






3 


Rhode Island 












1 




1 






















1 








2 




1 




1 
3 
1 
1 
3 




























































1 












1 












2 












1 












3 




















1 







































































256 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



QUOTA OF STATES UNDER SECOND CALL FOR 75,000 VOLUNTEERS, MAY 25. 



State or Territory. 



Alabama 

California 

Colorado 

Connecticut 

Georgia 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas - 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts 

Michigan 

Miimesiita 

Mississijipi 

Missouri 

Ni'braska 

New Jersey 

New York 

North Carolina.. - 

Ohio 

Oregon... — 

Pennsylvania 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina ... 

Tennessee 

Texas - 

Utah 

Virginia 

WashiTigton 

West Virginia 

Wisconsin 

Arizona 

New Mexic-o 

Oklahoma . 

Indian Territory . 

Nevada 

Wyoming 



Total . 



Regi- 
m.ent. 



Bat- 
talion. 



Com- 
panies. 



Light 
bat- 
teries. 



10 



Heavy 

bat- 
teries. 



16 



Note.— In addition to the two calls for troops, Congress authorized the formation of 3 regi- 
ments of engineers, 3 regiments of cavalry, and 10 regiments of infantry, raised from at large. 



Distribution of Troops, Camps, etc. 

On April 13, 1898, by direction of the Secretary of War, the regiments of the 
Regular Army, with few exceptions, were ordered to proceed to various points in 
the South— at Chickamauga, Ga., New Orleans, La., Molnle. Ala., and Tampa, Fla. 

These regiments came from Washington, Idaho. California, Utah. Nebraska, 
Wyoming, Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma. Arkansas, and, 
in fact, from nearly all the posts then occupied, some eighty in number: 

These troops were formed into brigades and divisioHs. as directed in General 
Order 25. Adjutant General's Office, April 23; and, by said order, the encampment 
in Chickamauga Park was designated as '-Camp George H. Thomas." 

On April 23 the President issued his proclamation calling for 100,0ilO volunteers. 
Recruiting was immediately commenced in the various States, and central points 
were selected where troops were to be mustered into the United States service. 

On May 7, by direction of the President, seven army corps were constituted, 
comprising both the regular and volunteer forces (General Order 3(5. Adjutant Gen- 
erals Office, May 7). 

On May IG the President made the assignment of general officers to take com- 
mand of the army corps, etc.. as follows (General (^rder 46. Adjutant General's 
Office. May irj): 

Department of the Pacific: Maj. Gen. Wesley Merritt. 



REPLY OF ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 



257 



First Army Corps and Department of the Gulf: Maj. Gen. John R. Brookr. with 
heaihiuarters at Camp Thomas, Ga. 

Second Ami)' Corps: Maj. Gen. William M. Graham, with head(iuarters at Falls 
Church, Va. 

Third Army Corps: Maj. Gen. James F. Wade, with liead(iuarters at Camp 
Thomas, Ga. 

Fourth Amy Corps: Maj. Gen. John J. Coppinger, with headciuarters at Mo- 
bile, Ala. 

Fifth Army Corps: Maj. Gen. William R. Shafter, with head(juarters at Tampa, 
Fla. 

Sixth Army Corps: Maj. Gen. James H. Wilson, with liead«iuarters at Camp 
Thomas. Ga. 

Seventh Army Corps: Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, with headquarters at Tampa, Fla. 

Cavalry Division: Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, with headciuarters at Tampa, Fla. 

The First and Third Army Corps were organized at Camp Thomas, Ga. The 
strength of troops present at Camp Thomas on the last day of each month wa:^ as 
follows: 



Month. 



Api'il .- 
May .-- 
June... 
July --- 
August 



Offl-'S. ^^i^^ed 



383 C. ;338 

3,191 43,036 

3,004 5(),514 

1,563 ( 43,300 

43(5 13,735 



In July the First Division of the First Corps, under General Wilson, was 
detached and sent to Porto Rico. 

On August 21 and 23 the Second and Third Divisions of the First Corps were 
sent to Lexington, Ky., and Knoxville, Tenn., respectively. 

Early in September the Third Army Corps was transferred to Anniston, Ala., 
and by the end of the month biit a small detachment remained at Camp Thomas. 

The Sixth Army Corps failed of organization, General Wilson being assigned 
to the command of the First Division of the First Corps. 

The Second Army Corps was organized at Camp Alger, near Falls Church, Va. 
The strength of troops present on the last day of each month was as follows: 



Month. 



May ... 
June - . 
July ... 
August 



Officers. 



903 



803 
768 



Enlisted 
men. 



17,406 
33,634 

21,378 

20,088 



In the latter part of July it was determined to discontinue Camp Alger; and a 
new site for a camp, near Middletown, Pa, (called "Camp Meade "'). was selected. 
The Second Division of the Second Army Corps commenced to move about 
Augnst 2, and early in September the remainder of the corps left Camp Alger. 
The figures for August include those at Camp Meade. 

The Fourth Army Corps was organized at Mobile, Ala. The strength present 
on the last day of each month was as follows: 



Month. 



Officers. 



Enli.sted 
men. 



May , 

June.-- 

July 

August 

7833— VOL. 1 17 



343 

763 
548 
413 



7,456 
30,0.58 
13,485 

9,933 



J58 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WyVK WITH SPAIN. 



On June 3 the Fourth Army Corps commenced to move from Mobile, Ala. , to 
Tampa, Fla. On July 3;3 the Third Division of the corps was trai.. ''erred to Fer- 
nandina. Fla. On August 11 the movement of the entire corps was commenced 
to Huntsville. Ala., and l)y August Hi the only troops of the corps remaining at 
Tampa were 1 officer and 2!) men of the Signal Corps. 

The Fifth Army Corps was organized at Tampa, Fla. The strength present of 
the corps on the last day of each mouth was as follows: 



Month. 



May 

Juno 

July — 
August 



Offlcers. 



769 
7!)1 

518 



Enlisted 
men. 



15.057 
11.! 115 
is.r.lti 
14,^47 



On June 7 the Fifth Army Corps embarked on transports for Santiago, Cuba, 
sailed June 14. and commjuced to disembark June 22. 

After the surrendur of Santiago, and owing to the prevalence of disease which 
infected the whole army there, it was decided to withdraw the forces that had 
been operating in Cuba; and accordingly the withdrawal of the troops from that 
place was commenced about August 7, General Shatter and staff (e.^-cepting the 
sick in hospital) being the last to leave, on August 24. 

The Seventh Army Corps was organized at Tampa, Fla. The strength present 
of the corps on the last day of each month was as follows: 



Month. 



May - . - 
June. .- 
July - . - 
August 



Enlisted 
men. 




On May 29 General Lee was authorized to establish his headquarters at Jack- 
sonville. Fla.. and accordingly removed to that place May 31, with the exception 
of the First Division of the corps, which remained at Tampa. 

On June 20 a division of the Fourth Army Corps, from Mobile, Ala., under the 
command of General Schwan.was transferred to camp at Miami, Fla.. and on 
June 28 was designated as the First Division of the Seventh Corps. Under 
orders from corps headciuarters, dated July ol, the First Division was trans- 
ferred from Miami to Jacksonville. Fla. 

The Department oi the Pacific, or Eighth Army Corps, was organized for the 
purpose of occupying the Philippines. The troops for this purpose were concen- 
trated at San Francisco. Cal. 

The first expedition for Manila, under command of Gen. T. M. Anderson, sailed 
May 2.5, consisting of the First California Infantry, Second Oregon Infantry, five 
companies Fourteenth United States Infantry, and a detachment of California 
artillery— 11.3 officers and 2.386 enlisted men, arriving off Manila June 30. 

The second expedition, under the command of Gen. F. V. Green, sailed June 
15, and consisted of the First Colorado, First Nebraska, Tenth Pennsylvania 
Infantry, four companies Eighteenth and four companies Twenty-third United 
States Infantry, two battalions Utah artillery, and detachment of United States 
Engineers: a total of 158 officers and 3,428 enlisted men. arriving at their destina- 
tion July 17. 

The third expedition, under the command of Generals Merritt and MacArthur, 
sailed June 27 and 29, and consisted of fonr companies of Eighteenth and four 
companies of Twenty-third United States Infantry, lour batteries of Third United 
Statc;j artillery, or.o company United States Engineers, First Idaho, First Wyoming, 
Thirteenth Minnesota, and First Ncrth Dakota Infantry, the Astor Battery, and 



liEPLY OF ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 



259 



detachments of the Hospital and Signal Corps; a total of 107 officers and 4,650 
enlisted men, which arrived at their destination July 2.") and 31. 

The fourth expedition, under command of Gen. E. S. Otis, sailed July 1."), and 
consisted of six troops Fourth United States Cavalry, two batteries Sixth United 
States Artillery, five companies Fourteenth United States Infantry, and detach- 
ments of recruits; a total of 42 officers and 1,040 enlisted men, and arrived at its 
destination August 21. 

The fifth expedition, under command of Col. H. C. Kessler, of First Montana 
Infantry, sailed July 19, and consisted of the First Montana Infantry and detach- 
ment of recruits; a total of 54 officers and 1,294 enlisted men. 

The sixth exiiedition, under command of Gen. H. G. Otis, sailed July 23, and 
consisted of eight companies of the First South Dakota and detachments; a total 
of 50 officers and 846 enlisted men. 

The Seventh Expedition, under command of Lieut. Col. Lee Stover, First South 
Dakota, sailed July 29, and consisted of four companies of First South Dakota 
and detachment of recruits; a total of 25 officers and 814 enlisted men. 

The total forces of the seven expeditions made a grand total of 641 officers 
and 15,058 enlisted men. 

The niimber of troops present remaining at San Francisco, after sailing of the 
expeditions, and who had been designated for the Philippines, was on the last day 
of each month as follows; 



Month. 



May - - . 
June. - 
July .. 
August 




Enlisted 
men. 



10,793 

11,600 

7,478 

6,988 



PORTO RICO. 

' Gen. N. A. Miles sailed from Guantanamo, Cuba, July 21, with a force of 3,554 
officers and men, and landed at Guanica, Porto Rico, July 25. 

The troops sailing with him were the Sixth Massachusetts and Sixth Illinois 
Infantry, batteries of Regular Artillery, and detachments of recruits, Signal and 
Hospital corps. By July 31 he was reenforced by General Schwan's brigade, of 
the Fourth Corps, and by part of General Wilson's division, of the First Corps. 

The strength present for July 31 and August 31, was as follows: 



Date. 



July 31 .... 
August 31 . 



Officers. 



377 
641 



Enlisted 
men. 



9,084 
16,332 



In addition to the camps and forces above enumerated, there were troops at 
posts and stations in the eight military geographical departments into which the 
United States was divided, each embracing territorial limits as follows: 

Dcpariineiif of Cnlifor)iia.—M.iij. Gen. H. C. Merriam, commanding. States of 
California and Nevada. The Hawaiian Islands were added July 13, 1898. 

Depai tinciit of the Colorado.— Brig. Gen. E. V. Sumner, commanding. States 
of Wyoming (except so much thereof as is embraced in the Yellowstone National 
Park), Colorado, and Utah, and the Territories of Arizona and New Mexico. 

Department of the Colainbia.—Mii^. Gen. H. C. Merriam, commanding. States 
of Washington, Oregon, Idaho (except so much of the latter as is embraced in the 
Yellowstone National Park), and the Territory of Alaska. 

Department of Dakota.— Brig. Gen. J. M. Bacon, commanding. States of Min- 
nesota, North Dakota, South D.r.cotn. Montana, and so much of Wyoming and 
Idaho as is embraced in tlie Yellowstone National Park. 



260 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Department of the East.— Brig. Gen. G. L. Gillespie, commanding. New Eng- 
land States, New \oi-k, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, District 
of Columbia, West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina. 

Department of the Gulf.— Brig. Gen. A. C. M. Pennington, commanding. States 
of South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. 

Dejxtrtmetit of the Lakes.— Brig. Gen. J. M. Bacon, commanding. States of 
Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois. Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. 

Department of the Missouri.— Bvig. Gen, E. V. Sumner, commanding. States 
of Iowa, Nebraska, Missotiri, Kansas, and Arkansas, the Indian Territory, and the 
Territory of Oklahoma. 

RESUME OP STRENGTH AND DISTRIBUTION OF TROOPS. 



Command. 



Department of California . . . 

Department of the Colorado. 

Department of the Columbia 

Department of Dakota 

Department of the East 

Department of the Gulf 

Department of the Lakes ... 

Department of the Missouri. 

First and Third corps 

Second Corps 

Fourth Corps 

Fifth Corps 

Seventh Corps 

Eighth Corps 

Porto Rico - 

Department of Santiago 

At State camps, en route, at 
recruiting stations, on fur- 
lough, etc. 



Total 



May. 



Offl- Enlisted 
cers. men. 



98 

45 

21 

24 

.530 

2:30 

16 

23 

2,191 

903 

342 

769 

496 



2,089 
8,415 



2,176 

956 

431 

662 

12,093 

4.921 

221 

757 

42,036 

17,406 

7,456 

15, 657 

8,847 

13,179 



33,716 



160,514 



June. 



Offl- Enlisted 
cers. men 



87 

39 

38 

16 

.586 

232 

31 

20 

,0(J4 

887 

763 

791 

781 

865 



9,367 



1,716 

1.350 

997 

722 

15,576 

5,792 

.597 

591 

.56, .544 

22, ()24 

2(J,058 

14, 945 

18, 375 

22, 124 



20,957 



203,868 



July. 



Offl- Enlisted 
cers. men. 



70 
41 
41 

67 
577 
249 
28 
20 
1.563 
802 
548 
890 
909 
917 
377 



3,861 



10,960 



1,745 
1,329 
1,256 
2,056 
17,240 
7,228 
646 
598 
42,260 
21,378 
13,485 
18, 619 
•SI 193 
22, 'M 
9, 084 



74,739 



257,393 



August. 



Offl- Enlisted 
cers. men. 



100 
40 
43 
32 
804 
280 
30 
19 
436 
768 
413 
.518 
1,025 
899 
641 
299 



4,771 



11,108 



2,390 

1,-516 

1,416 

955 

23,248 

7,262 

185 

.532 

12,735 

20,688 

9, 9;« 

14,:U7 
;.';,.sir 

22, l)4(i 
16,;332 

6,748 



95,479 



263.609 



Actions. Troops Engaged, and Losses in United States Troops during the 
War with Spain, April 21 to August 13, 1898. 

May 12, 1S98.— Point Arbolitos, Cuba. 

Capt. J. H. Dorst, Fourth Cavalry, commanding E and G, First United States 
Infantry. No casualties. 

June 22 to July 17, ISOS.— Siege and surrender of Santiago, Cuba. 

Fifth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. W. R. Shafter, commanding. 

June 24, ISOS. — La Quasima, Cuba. 

Cavalry division. Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, commanding : Second Cavalry 
Brii-ade. Brig. Gen. S. B. M. Young. 





Present for duty, 
equipped, June 20. 


Killed. 


Wounded. 


Commanfl. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Division hoadqiiarters 


14 
3 
12 
14 

31 






















Fii-.t Tnited States Cavalry( A, B, G, K) 

Tenth Uniteil States Cavalry (A, B,E, I) 

First United States Volunteer Cavalry 

(A B D E F G K L) 


260 
240 

,567 




7 
1 

7 


3 


5 
10 


1 


3 


29 






Total - 


74 


1,067 


1 


15 


6 


U 







REPLY OF ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 



2GI 



Officers killed and toounded.— Killed: Capt. A. K. Capron, First United States 
Volunteer Cavalry. Wotinded: Majs. J. M. Bell, First United States Cavalry; 
A. O. Brodie, First United States Volunteer Cavalry; Capts. T. T. Knox, First 
United States Cavalry; J. H. McClintock, First United States Volunteer Cavalry; 
First Lieuts. G. L. Byram, First United States Cavalry, and J. R. Thomas, jr., 
First United States Volunteer Cavalry. 

Juh/ 1 to 12, 189S. — Ojjerations against Santiago, Cuba. 

Embracing the actions at San Juan, El Caney, and Aguadores, July 1 to :?, and 
actions around Santiago. Cuba, July 10 to 12, 1898. 

FIFTH ARMY CORPS. 





Present for duty, 
equipped, June oil. 


Killed. 


Wounded. 




Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


CORPS HEADQUARTERS. 

Maj. Gen. W. R. Shafter and staflf 


15 
4 












58 
275 
192 

23 

257 












! 






United States Engineers (C. E) 

Balloon Detarhinent. Signal Corps 

Second United States Cavalry (A, C, 
D,F) 


8 
3 

9 






1 








1 










FIRST DIVISION. 


13 






















Fii-st Brigade. 

Brig. Gen. H. S. Hawkins and staff 

Sixteenth United .States Infantry 


6 

34 
30 

47 


655 
483 
923 


i 

3 




1 
6 
8 
1 




13 
10 
13 


109 
107 


Seven ty-flrst New York Infantry 


59 


Total First Brigade 


107 


2,060 


5 


36 


16 


275 






Second Briyade. 

Col. E. P. Pearson, Fifth Infantry, and 
staflf. 

Second United States Infantry 

Tenth United States Infantry ._ 

Twenty-first United States Infantry.. 


3 

23 
24 












616 
453 
423 


1 

1 


4 
6 


5 
5 

1 


52 
35 
34 










69 


1,492 


2 


17 


11 




121 






Third Brigade. 

Col. C. A. Wikoff, Twenty-second In- 
fantry, and staff. 


3 

31 
34 
23 




1 

1 

1 
2 








444 
441 

487 


16 
11 




25 


Thirteenth Unitt'd States Infantry 

Twenty-fourth United States Infantry 


I 


86 
74 


Total Third Brigade 


70 


1,372 


5 


34 


13 


185 








259 


4,934 


12 


87 


39 


581 






SECOND DIVISION. 

Brig. Gen. H. W. Lawton and staff 


8 






















First Brigade. 

Brig. Gen. W.Ludlow and stafE 

Eighth United States Infantry (A, B, 
C. D. E, F, and H). 

Second Massachusetts Infantry. . . 


3 
19 

29 












487 

467 
863 




6 

10 

7 


1 

6 
3 


47 
38 


44 


1 


38 


Total First Brigade 


95 


1,817 


1 


33 1 10 


123 






Second Brigade. 


3 
14 
21 

18 










First United States Infantry 

Fourth United States Infantry 

Twenty-fifth United States Infantry.. 


438 
444 
509 






2 


1 
1 


7 1 
7 3 


36 
27 


Total Second Brigade 


56 


1,391 


3 


14 


4 


65 



262 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



FIFTH ARMY CORPS-Contimied. 



Commaud. 


Present for duty, 
equipped, June 30. 


Killed. 


Wounded. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


SECOND DIVISION— continued. 

Tliird Brkjadc. 

Brig. Gen. A. R. Chaffee and staff 

Seventh United States Infantry. 

Twelfth United States Infantry 

Seventeenth United States Infantry . . 


6 

25 
20 
24 












891 
564 

482 


1 


33 
9 
9 


4 

1 
2 


97 
34 




36 






Total Third Brigade 


75 


1,937 


1 


. 50 


7 


167 






Total Second Division 


334 


5,145 


4 


87 


21 


355 






INDEPENDENT BRIGADE. 

Brig Gen J C Bates and staff 


4 
19 
24 














460 

578 




3 

1 




15 


Twentieth United States Infantry — 




3 


13 






Total Independent Brigade 


47 


1,038 




4 


2 


28 






duffield's brigade. 


4 
43 
29 
43 












Thirty-third Michigan Infantry 

Thirty-fourth Michigan Infantry 


958 
612 
854 




3 




10 














5 












Total of Brigade 


119 


2,434 




3 




15 










CAVALRY division. 

Ma.]. Gen. J. Wheeler and staff 


13 






















First Brigade. 

Brig. Gen. S. S. Sumner and staff 

Third United States Cavalry (B, C,E, 
F,G,H,I.K) 


3 
2:5 
16 
13 












4*3 
435 
207 




3 
4 
2 


6 
4 

2 


46 


Sixth United States Cavalry (A, B,C, 
D,E.F,G,K) 




51 


Ninth United States Cavalry (A,B,C, 
D,E,G,H,K) 


2 


18 








Total First Brigade 


54 


1,075 


2 i 9 


13 


115 






Second Brigade. 
Brig. Gen. S. B. M. Young 


20 
27 
26 


3 

503 
453 
557 






3 




First United States Cavalry (A, B, C, 
D E G H,l, K) 


1 
3 

1 


13 
5 
14 


47 


Tenth United States Cavalry (A, B, C, 
D.E,G,HJ) 


9 
6 


65 


First United States Volunteer Cavalry 
(A,B,D,E,F,G,K,L) 


69 






Total Second Brigade 


80 


1,516 


4 


31 


18 


181 






Total cavalry division 


146 


2, .591 


6 40 


30 


296 






light ARTILLERY BATTALION. 

Maj.J. W.Dillonliack 

E, First United States Artillery 

K, First United States Artillery 

A. Second United States Artillery 

F, Second United States Artillery 


1 
3 

3 












79 

78 
79 

77 
















1 


1 2 




8 






1 


2 








Total light arillery 


11 


313 




3 


1 


11 








siege ART1LI,ERY. 

G, Fourth United States Artillery 

H, Fourth United States Artillery .... 


3 
1 


53 
65 


























Total siege artillery 


3 


118 




















Grand total, Fifth Army Corps. . 


858 


17,358 


23 


322 


93 


1,288 



REPLY OF ADJUTANT-GKNEKAL, "2G3 

The following troops were sent to and landed at Santiago, Cuba, but were not 
engaged: 
First District of Columbia Infantry, First Illinois Infantry, Eighth Ohio Infantry, 

F, Fourth United States Artillery; F, Fifth United States Artillery. 

Officrrs JiiUed and iconndcd.—KiWeA: Col. C. A. Wikoff. Twenty-second Infan- 
try; Lieut. Col. J. M. Hamilton, Ninth Cavalry; Maj. A. G. Forse, First Cavalry. 
Capts. C. W. Rowell, Second Infantry; A. M. Wetherill, Sixth Infantry: John 
Drum, Tenth Infantry: T.W.Morrison, Sixteenth Infantry. and William 0"Neill, 
First United States Volunteer Cavalry. First Lieuts. W. E. Shipp and W. H. 
Smith, Tenth Cavalry: J. G. Ord. Sixth Infantry: C. K. Field, Second Massachu- 
setts Infantry. Second Lieuts. J. J. Bernard, Fourth Infantry: E. N. Benchley, 
Sixth Infantry; T. A. Wansboro, Seventh Infantry: L.H.Lewis, Ninth Infantry; 
W. A. Sater, Thirteenth Infantry; D. M. Michie, Seventeenth Infantry; J. A. 
Gurney and J. N. Augustin, Twenty-fourth Infantry; H. L. McCorkle, Twenty- 
fifth Infantry, and Acting Asst. Surg. H. W. Danforth. who was on duty with 
Ninth Cavalry. 

Wounded: Brig. Gen. H. S. Hawkins: Lieut. Cols. Henry Carroll, Ninth Cav- 
alry; H. C. Egbert, Sixth Infantry; W. S. Worth. Thirteenth Infantry; J. T. 
Haskell, Seventeenth Infantry; E. H. Liscum, Tvventy-fourtii Infantry; J, H. 
Patterson, Twenty-second Infantry. Majs. H. W. Wessells. Third Cavalry: T.J. 
Wint, Tenth Cavalry; J. H. Smith, Second Infantry: A. W. Corliss, Seventh 
Infanti-y; S. H. Lincoln and R. I. Eskridge, Tenth infantry; P. H. Ellis, Thir- 
teenth Infantry, and W. C. Hayes, First Ohio Cavalry. Capts. A. L. Mills, 
assistant adjutant-general of volunteers (first lieutenant. First Cavalry) : G. K. 
Hunter and G. A. Dodd. Third Cavalry; J. B. Kerr and A. P. Blocksom, Sixth 
Cavalry; C. W. Taylor, Ninth Cavalry; John Bigelow, jr., Tenth Cavalry: C. D. 
Parkhurst, Second Artillery; W. J. Turner, Second Infantry: Z. W. Torrey and 

G. B. Walker, Sixth Infantry: J. B. Jackson, Seventh Infantry: R. C. Van Vleit, 
Tenth Infantry: James Fornace, J. B. Guthrie, and H. G. Cavanaugh. Thirteenth 
Infantry: William Lassiter. W. C. McFarland, and T. C. Woodbury, Sixteenth 
Infantry: H. B. Moon and J. B. Rodman, Twentieth Infantry: F. B. Jones, J. J. 
Crittenden, and Theodore Mosher, Twenty-second Infantry: A. C. Ducat and J. J. 
Brereton, Tv/enty-fourth Infantry; W. S. Warrener, Second Massachusetts 
Infantry, and M. J. Henry, commissary of subsistence of volunteers. First 
Lieuts. Arthur Thayer, A. C. Merrillat, and O. B, Meyer, Third Cavalry; W. S. 
Wood, Ninth Cavalry: R. L. Livermore, E. D. Anderson, and M. H. Baruum, 
Third Cavalry; W. C. Neary, Fourth Infantry; J. S. Grissard, Seventh Infantry: 
J. R. Seyburn, Eighth luiantry; Carl Koops, Tenth Infantry; A. B. Scott, Thir- 
teenth Infantry: S. W. Dunning, Sixteenth Infantry; W. M. Dickinson, Seven- 
teenth Infantry: G. J. Godfrey, Twenty-second Infantry: H. G. Lyon and J. E. 
Brett. Twenty-fourth Infantry; R. C. Day and J. A. Carr, First United States 
Volunteer Cavalry. Second Lieuts. W. C. Short, Sixth Cavalry: F. R. McCoy, 
T. A. Roberts, H. C. Whitehead, and H. O. Williard, Tenth Cavalry; B. H. 
Wells and W. J. Lutz, Second Infantry; J. H. Hughes, Fourth Infantry; L. H. 
Gross, C. N. Purdy, John Robertson, R. S. Turman, and W. H. Simons, Sixth 
Infantry: H. A. Laft'erty, Seventh Infantry: M. C. Saville, Tenth Infantry; W. 
E. Dove and Clark Churchman, Twelfth Infantry; L. S. Sorley and R. E. Spence, 
Sixteenth Infantry; B. F. Hardaway, Seventeenth Infantry: F. R. Meade, Twenty- 
first Infantry: W. H. Wassell. Twenty-second Infantry: Albert Laws. Twenty- 
fourth Infantry; J. S. Murdock and H. L. Kinnison, Twenty-fifth Infantry; D. 
J. Moynehan and C. D. Hapgood, Second Massachusetts Infantry: W. E. Trull, 
Seventy-first New York Infantry; D. J. Leahy and H. K. Devereaux, First United 
States Volunteer C.ivalry, and Acting Second Lieut, (cadet Military Academy) 
Ernest A. Haskell, First United States Volunteer Cavalry. 



264 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

Total casualties in Cuba. 



Casualty. 



Killed .... 
Wounded . 



Officers. 



33 



Enlisted 
men. 



July 25 to August 13, 1S9S — Operations in Porto Rico. 
Maj. Gen. Nelson A. Miles, commanding. 





Action. 


Command. 


Killed. 


Wounded. 


Date. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


1898. 
July 36 


Guanica, Porto 
Rico. 

(ruayama, Porto 
Rico. 

Pour miles north 
of G u a y a m a , 
Porto Rico. 

Near Coamo,Porto 
Rico. 

Hormigueros, Por- 
to Rico. 

Pass near Arbo- 
nito, Porto Rico. 

At oro.ssing of the 
Rio Prieto, near 
Horm i g u e r o s, 
Porto Rico. 


Sixth Illinois Infantry (G). 
Sixth Mas.sachusetts In- 
fantry (A, C,E,G.K,L, M) 

Total 








3 






al 


















1 


3 




Fourth Ohio Infantry (A, 
B,C,D,E,F,G,I,K,Lj. 

Fourth Ohio Infantry (A, 

C). 

Third United States Artil- 
lery (F). 

Fourth United States Ar- 
tillery (B). 

Sixteenth Pennsylvania In- 
fantry. 

Total . 








Aug. 5 








4 










Aug. 8 








5 










Aug. 9 


























6 




















6 




Brigadier-General Schwan's 
brigade and staff. 

Third United States Ar- 
tillery (C). 

Fifth United States Ar- 
tillery (D). 

Eleventh United States 
Infantry. 

Fifth United States Cav- 
alry (,A). 

Total 










Aug. 10 






61 


















3 






1 




13 
























1 


1 


15 




Troops under Maj. Gen. J. 
H. Wilson: 
Third United States 

Artillery (F). 
Third Wisconsin In 
fantry (D, F, L, M). 

Total 






Aug. 13. 






cl 
dl 








3 


3 












3 


3 


3 




Troops under Brig. Gen. 
Theodore Schwan: 

Third United States 
Artillery (.section of 
C). 

Fifth United States 
Artillery (detach- 
ment of A). 

Eleventh United States 
Infantry. 






Aug. 13. 












































3 


4 


36 













aCapt.E. J.Gihon. 

h First Lieut. .1. C.Byron, Eighth Cavalry, aid-de-camp to Gen. Theodore Schwan. 

c Lieut. .J. P. Hains. 

d Capt. F. T. Lee. 



REPLY OF ADJUTANT-GENERAL. 

July — to August 13, ISOS— Operations in Manila, Philippine Islands. 
Maj. Gen. Wesley Merritt, commanding. 



265 





Action. 


Command. 


Killed. 


Wounded. 


Date. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


1898. 
July 30 

to 
Aug. 5 


In trenches before 
Manila, P. I. 

Assault on Manila . 


Fourteenth United States 
Infantry (A.CD. E.F). 

Twenty-third United States 
Infaiitry (D.E.F.H). 

Third United Stato-^s Artil- 
lery (H.K). 

Battery B Utah Artillery 




2 

1 
1 




3 






2 




al 


5 






1 








1 
1 
6 

1 


b2 


10 








2 




Tenth Pennsylvania In- 
fantry. 




c4 


25 






9 




Total - -... 












13 


7 


57 










Aug. 13 




2 

1 




8 








2 










3 




Twenty-third United States 
Infantry. 

Eighteenth United States 
Infantry. 

Thirteenth Minnesota In- 
fantry. 

Total 




1 




r 














1 


d3 


19 












4 


3 


39 




Total casualties 










17 


9 


96 











a Capt. C. W. Hobbs. 

h Capt. Reinhold Richter and First Lieut. E. F. Davis. 

cCapt. J. A. Loar, First Lieut. R. D. Laird, and Second Lieuts. A. J. Buttermore and G. L. 
Gordon. 
tl Capts. Oscar Seebach and A. W. Bjornstad and First Lieut. C. G. Bunker. 

GRAND TOTAL OF CASUALTIES IN KILLED AND WOUNDED DURING THE WAR 

WITH SPAIN. 





Killed. 


Wounded. 


Where. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 


Officers. 


Enlisted 
men. 




33 


337 
3 
17 


99 
4 
10 


1,332 




36 






96 








Total 


23 


257 


113 


1,464 







Deaths from all causes between May 1 and September 30. inclusive, as reported 
to the Adjutant-Generals Office up to date (October 3, 1898) were: 



Killed 

Died of wounds 
Died of disease . 



Total 



Officers. 



107 



Enlisted 
men. 



257 

61 

2,485 



2,803 



Being an aggregate of 2,910 out of a total force of 274,717 officers and men, or 
a percentage of Ij^g^. 



26fi 



INVESTICATION OK CONDUCT OF WAll WITH SPAIN. 



Principal Camps of the U. S. Troops, Dates of Establishment, and Num- 
ber OF Deaths by Disease, Accidents, etc., at each to September 80, 
as Reported to the Adjutant-General's Office. 



Camps. 



Camp Thomas. Chickama'.i!?a Park, Georgia ... 

Cami) Cuba Libre, Jackson ville, Fla 

Tampa. Fla 

Cuba (not including: killed or died of wounds). 

At .sea. en route from Cuba to Montauk - 

Camp Wikoff , Montauk Point, New York 

Manila. P. I.-- --. 

Porto Rico. - 

Camp Alger, near Falls Church, and vicinity .-. 

Camps in" San Francisco 

Camp Poland. Knox ville, Tenn 

Camp Shipp. Anniston. Ala.. 

Camp Meade. near Midilletown. Pa... 

Camp Hamilton. Lexington. Ky 

Camp Wheeler. Hunts ville, Ala 

At posts, minor camps, etc 



Total. 



Date of 
estab- 
lish- 
ment. 



Apr. 
Mav 

May 
June 
(") 
Aug. 
June 
July 
May 
May 
Aug. 
Sept. 
Aug. 
Aug. 
Aug. 



30 



Deaths. 



12;-) 

246 

5ti 

437 

87 

2.57 

(13 

137 

107 

139 

23 

12 

64 

29 

35 

378 



3,485 



a August and September. 
Selection of camp grounds were made on recommendations, as follows: 

Chickamauga Park, Ga By Major-General Commanding Army. 

Mobile, Ala - - - Temporary camp. 

New Orleans Temporary camp. 

Fernandina, Fla Major-General Connuanding Army. 

Miami, Fla - - Major-General Commanding Army. 

Jacksonville, Fla Major-General Lee, United States Yolnnteers. 

Camp Alger, Va Major-General Commanding Army. 

Knoxville, Tena Board of officers. 

Tampa, Fla A permanent camp was never contemplated at Tampa, 

but troops were sent there preparatory for embarka- 
tion, on recommendation of the Major-General 
Commanding the Army. 

Lexington, Ky Board of officers. 

Middletown, Pa Board of officers. 

Camp Merritt, Cal Gen. H. C. Merriam. 

Montauk Point, N. Y. Board of officers. 

Hnntsville, Ala Board of officers. 

Anniston, Ala Board of officers. 

H. C. Corbin, Adjutant-General. 
Adjutant-General's Office, 

October 13, 18DS. 



STATISTICAL MATTER FROM THE OFFICE OF THE 
INSPECTOR-GENERAL, U. S. A. 



267 



1 



STATISTICAL MATTER FROM THE INSPECTOR- 
GENERAL, U. S. A. 



War Department, 
Washington, October 6, 1898. 
Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, 

President Commission Appointed by the President 

to Investigate the Condnct of the War Department in the War with Spain. 
Sir: I have the honor to hand you herewith all the reports in the Inspector- 
General's Department relating to the war with Spain. So niany of the officers of 
the Inspector-General's Department have been absent in command of troops that 
no general inspection has been made under orders from this office. Frequent 
inspections have been made by brigade, division, and corps inspectors, and ren- 
dered to the corps commanders. These have been called for, and when received 
vvill be referred to you in accordance with request already made. 
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 

R. A. Alger, 

Secretary of War. 



War Department. Inspector-General's Office, 

WasJiington. October — , 1898. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army. 

Sir: In obedience to the instructions of the Secretary of War, contained in 
communication from your office of the 3d instant, I have the honor to transmit 
herewith, for the commission appointed by the President to investigate the con- 
duct of the War Deijartment in the war with Spain, copies of such reports of 
officers in the Inspector-General's Department as have been received in this office. 
In this connection I would remark that the larger portion of the reports of tlie 
officers of this department made during the war are made direct to corps and 
division commanders, and have not reached this office. 
Very respectfully, 

Thos. T. Knox, 
Acting Inspector-General. 



General Breckinridge refers to scarcity of ordnance eqiiipments at Chickamauga 
in May. 
August 20. Report of Lieut. Col. Frank D. Baldwin, assistant inspector-general. 
August 24. Report of Lieut. Col. C. Guild, jr., assistant inspector-general. 

369 



1 



270 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SFAIN. 



Reports of Maj. Philip Reade, assistant inspector-general, reflect on Seventy- 
first New York Infantry; refers to scai'city of siibsistence and medical supplies in 
Cuba, and makes other reflections. 



On board the Transport Seouranca, 

Daiquiri, Cuba, June JU, IS'JS. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army, Hi 

WasJiiiKjton, D. C. " 

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following final report of the inspection of 
the troops at Camp George H. Thomas, Chickamanga National Park, Ga., made 
May 31 to June 3, 1898, tinder instructions from headquarters of the army of 
May 17, 1898: 

The course of this inspection proljably began in my application for field service 
and the kindly expression of the dbKsire of the General commanding the Army that 
I should have a command. While Camp George H. Thomas was occujned prin- 
cipally by regulars lie suggested that the command there should l)e ptit to such 
tests by a combined inspection by the exjierienced officers of the corps as would 
demonstrate not only the condition of its subordinate organizations but the 
instruction, fitness, and readiness of its officers, both mentally and physically, for 
the exigencies of the coming campaign. And to this end fairly long marches or 
rides and sudden tests of the individual skill of the officers in the disposition of 
the trooi)s imder their command should be applied in such a way as would show 
not only their knowledge of the drill book but their endurance and resoitrceful- 
ness in handling the forces in their charge. And the essential and practical'ques- 
tions of attack and defense, marching and security, and the suitability of the 
individuals for the task before them should predominate in this inspection 
instead of the usual details which are made jn-ominent in garrison life. Before 
the order for this prqposed inspection was di-awn or signed, the jn-ospect of a 
military expedition, the appointment of volunteer officers, and the change of 
station of troops modified the original proposition, and the following instructions 
were received: 

Headquarters of the Army, Adjutant-General's Office, 

Washington, May 17, ISDS. 
Maj. Gen. J. C. Breckinridg£, U. S. Volunteers, 

Washington, D. C. 
Sir: By authority of the Secretary of War, the Major-General commanding 
the Army directs that, accompanied by Maj. E. A. Garlington, Inspector-General, 
Lieut. Col. J. J. Astor, Inspector-General of Vohmteers. and Lieuts. S. M. Foote, 
Fourth Artillery, and C. D. Rhodes. Sixth Cavalry, aids-de-camps, you proceed 
to Chickamauga National Park. Tenn.; Atlanta, Ga.: New Orleans, La.; Mobile, 
Ala., and Tampa. Miami, and Key West, Fla., and make an inspection of the 
camj^s and troops assembled at those places. You are authorized to call on 
inspectors-general, acting inspectors-general, and other officers at the various 
points you are to visit for such assistance as you may requii-e. On the completion 
of this duty you will return to these headquarters and submit your report. 

The Quartermaster's Department mil fiirnish the necessary transportation for 
camp and garrison equipage as extra baggage. 
The travel enjoined is necessary for the public service. 
Very respectfully, 

H. C. CoRBiN, Adjutant-General. 

Under the authority of this order I requested Gen. J. R. Brooke, commanding 
Camp George H. Thomas, to direct any mspectors-general on duty there to report 



INSPECTION REPoirrs. 271 

to me; and this was done as the inspectors arrived, the fii'st reporting to mv after 
I had been there abont five days and the inspection of the First Division, First 
Corps, had lieen nearly completed. 

From the first it was evident that the difference between a regular and an 
imijrovised command required a corresponding mtxlification of the method and 
scheme of insijection, so the following instructions were given the several inspect- 
ing oflBlcers: 

"The inspection of the Second Division, First Corps, will proceed seriatinx by 
regiments after the review, and begin prior to the general inspection of camps. 
Major Garlington will conduct the inspection of the First Brigade; Major Davis 
of the Second Brigade, and Major Slocum of the Third Brigade. The succession 
of the regiments in each brigade A\all be determined daily until completed. Each 
inspector will promptly report such matters as require immediate remedy or 
attention and separately such as need telegraphic report to the Washington 
authorities, and will conclude his brigade inspection with a summary report of 
its salient features. 

"Where necessary, the senior inspector present will control or settle any mat- 
ters that may arise, and any questions can be presented to Major Garlington. who 
is authorized to direct all details of the inspection. 

•• It is desired that each inspector will verbally state each day something of the 
progi-ess of his work and what still is to be done. The basis of the insijection A\ill 
be to determine and. if practicable, to improve the condition and cpiality of the 
officers, men. equipment, and organizations for effective work in the campaign 
and battle line." 

Later the following additional instructions were given the division inspectors 
of the First Corps: 

'• In the information you are now preparing please locate definitely any discom- 
forts and special excellence discovered, and state the causes, if evident, and proper 
remedy or commendation for exceptional conditions — as the course pursued by 
different States, for instance — if it can be done without trenching upon the pre- 
rogatives or jiowers of liigher authority; and visit the schools as well as the drill 
grounds and administrative centers, and note in what and where correct princi- 
ples and instruction and desirable results are shown, or the contrary. Perhaps if 
the several inspectors of di\'isions can find from each other what special featiires, 
especially those immediately remediable, are common throughout the command 
or especially deserve the attention of higher authority, they can be so accentu- 
ated as to attract attention and prodiice needed effect. " 

The inspection of so large a command in a transitory state, with troops coming 
and going daily, was an unprecedented task, and required the combined efforts 
and constant ai^plication of the officers of my party to bring it to a successful close. 
And under existing conditions it was deemed advisable to correct irregularities 
on the spot, to fiirnish corps and di\'ision commanders lists of defects and irregu- 
larities discovered from day to day which seemed to require immediate attention 
and could be partially or wholly remedied by them, and to inform the authorities 
at Washington by telegraph as the inspection progi-esses of such matters as 
re(iuired their attention. At the close of the tour a preliminary report was sub- 
mitted from Tamj)a. Copies of the telegrams to the Washington aiitlKjrities and 
of the in'eliminary report are inclosed, marked A 1 to 10, and will, it is believed, 
give a fair conception of the conditions existing at the camp and of the earnest- 
ness and success with which this unprecedented inspection was pushed forward. 
There was hardly a phase of camp life, whether affecting di'ills, minor tactics, 
and other duties, or equipment, clothing, food, and medicines, or paper work, in 
which instiiiction or advice was not sought from the inspecting officers by most 
of the regiments, and it was freely given, Avith the most beneficial results. 



272 INVIOSTIGATIUN «)F CONDUCT OF WAIt WITH SPAIN. 

But tliat the proper test for an improvised army must be efficiency on the bat- 
tle hne instead of salutes and ceremonies is clear, so considerable stress was laid 
upon l)attle exercises and handling killing weapons. Every division of the First 
and Third corps was formed and all but one tested: and the foiination of a corps 
suggested, but the commander who ranked nie preferred not. The difference 
between the conduct of each division in these maneiavers, according to the prior 
experience and familiarity and personal enthiisiasm, skill, expertness. and vigor 
of the commanding officer and his staff, was, perhaps, as noticeable as that between 
the regimental organizations foimded upon their past opportiinities and present 
(lualities. It is believed they did much toward directing general attention to the 
practical requirements of the battle line. The increased interest and insight such 
masses give to the knowledge of warlike recpiirements are easily appreciated. It 
is believed a new spirit and clearer discernment have inculcated that command. 
In one exercise, where General Poland's division turned the flank of Colonel 
Bobleter"s (Second and Third divisions. First Corps) to capture Hall's Ford of the 
ChickamaiTga, we had about 20,000 men opposed to each other, and the lesson 
vnll not be soon forgotten; and when General Grant marched his division (First 
Division, Third Coi^is) before me the .combination of names seemed striking. 
When his division was passing in review two other major-generals were observ- 
ing its performance. And the battle i)roblem was executed after my call to Tampa 
for the expedition about to start under the following telegram: 

Tampa. Fla., June 3, 1S08. 
Maj. Gen. Joseph Breckixridge, 

Chickamauga ParTc, Get.: 
The Major-General Commanding the Army directs that you report to him here 
as soon as possible. The travel enjoined is necessary for the public service. 

F. MiCHLER. 

Assistaiit Adjutant-Ocneral. 

Our national life and purjjoses are certainly important to ourselves and to 
others, and deserve effort and care equal to that given by any other, whether in 
peace or war. And we should be ready to maintain our national opinions and 
position by every approved argiiment both by word and deed. Americans are 
willing enough to assert themselves, but being willing is hardly being ready. 
The present military situation demonstrates what apparently none but the ^^^sest 
statesmen and some professional soldiers would accept last year, that in proper 
care for our own soldiery at least 260.000 first-class weapons and other materials 
in proportion, especially transportation, are immediately essential when our duty 
calls us to arms against even a second-class power. As we can not willingly be 
classed as contentious against nations one-fifth our size, these preparations we 
are now so earnestly engaged upon may become, under Providence, a mere 
schooling, preparing us to respond to our future destiny. Two-thirds of the earth 
is covered with water, and we have reached the shore upon both seas. What can 
not be avoided we must meet like men. And the men in our little Regiilar Army, 
and in the volunteers that as yet have been called out, equal the best that our 
country ever called to its colors. The training and physique of the regulars are 
superb, and are rivaled by regiment after regiment of volunteers as far as their 
training has gone. The (piality of the regular officers is proverbial, and the prob- 
lem is how to make the most of them while they are so few. It was always the 
avowed intention to use them as a distributing reservoir of military knowledge in 
case of war. Everywhere tliat they are thrown among the volunteers one is doing 
the work of a dozen . and more are needed. How excessive and admirable has been 
the work of individual officers wherever scattered deserves the warmest recogni- 
tion , encouragement , and reenf orcement. The zeal of the volunteers and their rare 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 273 

intelligence and adaptability, and the training of many of them in some of the 
more excellent schools of the National Giiard, are evident all along the line. Every 
advantage should be taken of all the military instruction which onv military sys- 
tem affords, and perhaps full use is not being made of the gradnates of our hundred 
of military colleges, nor of the Army itself as a training school for young officers. 
Doubtless we could iiromj)tly commission several hundred bright young citizens 
in our regular regiments, and put them into thorough training immediately, and 
so release and utilize more of the superbly trained regular officers, and have them 
serve with, and perhaps command, volunteer regiments and brigades — men of 
the age of Sheridan and Custer when they won their fame — and we could attract 
many more graduates of oiir military colleges into places of command; so the 
whole situation might be benefited and much less discomfort be felt and quicker 
efficiency for battle be attained. Already there is progi-ess everywhere. The 
work is devolving upon the better officers, and a general insight as to how and 
when it is to be done and the best way to do it is spreading rapidly. Perhaps the 
following copy of general orders — the first issued from headquarters First Divi- 
sion, First Corps — may serve to illustrate the systematic steps taken to place the 
troops on an effective war basis and incidentally show the need of brigade 
inspectors: 

General Orders. } Headquarters First Division, First Army Corps, 

No. 1. f 3Iay 10, ISOS. 

I. Until further orders, in all organizations of this connnand, reveille will be 
sounded daily at o.oO a. m., retreat at sunset, tattoo at 9 p. m., and taps at 9.15 
p. m., at which latter hour the inspection provided for in paragraph oS3, Army 
Regulations, will be made. 

II. Subject to such details as may be prescribed by brigade commanders, 
theoretical and x^ractical instruction of the officers and enlisted men of their 
respective commands will be instituted by regimental commanders. Theoretical 
instruction will be held daily, Sundays excepted, at such hours as will not inter- 
fere with other duties. Exercises in practical instruction will be held daily, 
Sundays excepted, from 7 a. m. to 9.30 a. m. and from 3.30 p. nj. to 5 j). m.; but 
field and battle exercises need not be confined to these hours. The time allotted 
to j)ractical instruction will be divided among the various exercises at the discre- 
tion of brigade or regimental commanders, having due regard to the principle 
that short, brisk, spirited drills give the best resiTlts, and that not only instruc- 
tion biit condition, discipline, and marksmanship are the ultimate aim. 

III. Brigade commanders will issue the necessary orders for the thorough police 
and discipline or camps. 

lY. Brigade commanders will, with the least practicable delay, inspect all the 
regiments of their respective brigades, and ascertain the amount on hand and 
condition of all arms, ammunition, equipments, camp e<iuipage, and transporta- 
tion, and report the I'esult of their investigations to these headiiuarters, together 
with a statement of all that is needed to put the regiments into the field as an 
effective fighting force. They will also give their oi)inion as to the length of time 
it will take to accomplish this result. 

Bv command of Major-General Wilson. 

W. E. Wilder, 

Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant-General of Volunteers, 

The intelligent energy displayed is phenomenal and the results commensurate 
with the labor. And all that was done before the declaration of war is bearing 
fruit alnindantly for the benefit of the nation, and all that has been done since is 
directed intensely toward immediate and essential results. It is simply astounding 
that so much has been accomplished and done so well in so short a space of time, 
7833— VOL. 1 IS 



274 INVESTIGATIOX OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

and the work is still being pressed everywhere with the isame impetuosity and 
earnestness and success. 

After the incisive scrutiny so earnestly applied to the troops in camp, the first 
duty imposed upon the inspector is to commend what has been so efficiently done, 
which gives fair assurance that all will certainly be done as well and as promptly 
as circumstances, some favorable and some unfavorable, will permit. The con- 
dition of things is as good as could be expected and is constantly impro^-ing. and 
only the ultimate test of campaign and battle can be expected to furnish the 
ultimate judgment upon the results for which all are so patriotically working. 

Attention is invited to the inclosures herewith. 

Respectfully submitted. 

J. C. Breckinridge, 
3Iajor- General of Volunteers, Inspector-General. 



LIST OF INCLOSURES. 

A. Telegraphic and preliminary reports of the inspections: 

1. Telegram oi May 22 to Commanding General United States Army. 

2. Telegram of May 24 to Commanding General United States Army. 

3. Telegram of May 29 to Commanding General United States Army. 

4. Telegram of June 2 to Secretary of War. 

5. Telegram of June 4 to Secretary of War. 

6. Telegram of June 4 to General Commanding United States Army. 

7. Telegram of June 11 to General Commanding United States Army. 

8. Telegram of June 12 to Secretary of War. 

9. TelegTam of June 12 to Acting Inspector-General. 

10. Preliminary report of June 13 to Commanding General United States 
Army. 

B. Battle exercises and reviews: 

1. Order of commanding general First Division. First Corps. 

2. Letter of Inspector-General to commanding general First Division, 

First Corps, on result of exercises. 

3. Orders of commanding general Second Division, First Coi-ps. 

4. Orders of commanding general Third Division, First Corps. 
.5. Statement shownng time consiimed in passing in review. 

C. Correspondence concerning a few of the defects developed during the inspection . 

1. Scarcity of fresh beef. 

2. Lack of medical supplies. 

3. Enlistment of colored troops in white regiments. 

D. Returns and statistical information: 

1. Return of troops. 

2. Previous service of officers and enlisted men. 

3. Ai-ms, equipments, clothing, and other supplies reported on hand, 

unserviceable, and needed. 

E. Observation and memoranda during expedition to Cuba: 

1 . Intrenching tools. 

2. Lessons of the expedition, need of strategic stalf , etc 

3. The present military problem. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 275 

INCLOSURE A. 
TELEGRAPHIC AND PRELIMINARY REPORTS OF THE INSPECTION. 

1. Telegram of May 23 to Commanding General United 

States Ai-my. 

2. Telegram of May 24 to Commanding General United 

States Army. 

3. Telegi-am of May 29 to Commanding General United 

States Ai-my. 

4. Telegram of June 2 to Secretary of War. 

5. Telegram of June 4 to Secretary of War. 

6. Telegram of June 4 to General Commanding United 

States Ai-my. 

7. Telegi-am of June 11 to General Commanding United 

States Ai-my. 

8. Telegram of June 12 to Secretary of War. 

9. Telegi-am of June 12 to Acting Inspector-General. 

10. Preliminary report of June 18 to Commanding General 
United States Army. 



[Telegram.] 

Chattanooga, Tenn., l/m/ ~'.?, 1S9S—3.50 p. m. 
General Commanding the Army, 

Washington, D. C: 
First day's inspection was limited principally to First Division, admirably com- 
manded by General Wilson, which was composed entirely of Northern regiments, 
those in each brigade being from different States, and was found in better shape 
than was anticipated, though (luite short of brigadier-generals. We were greatly 
delayed in beginning the inspection by fatal railroad collision wnth First Missouri 
train. My son, Ethelbert. despite the bleeding from contusions received, rendered 
special and continuous assistance to the desperately injured. The deficiencies 
arising from organizing and drilling regiments of recruits representing various 
States, such as men of certain organizations of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, 
being without arms, horses, or cannon, are doubtless well kiJOMii, and the med- 
ical department is said to be without some of the simplest supplies. Though sub- 
sistence supplies are abimdant— filling large warehouses in Chattanooga— perha_ps 
from the inexperience of the colonels some difficulties and delay are experienced 
in reaching the men. Handier water and experienced subi^rdinate, general, 
and staff officers— particularly capable inspectors— seem needed. Colonels Bur- 
ton and Vrooni might be ordered to report to me now for this tour and then be 
assigned f'^r field service. The eciuipment and instruction, in close order, of the 
First Division may be considered fairly good, and are spoken (if as rather better 
than the average. This inspection would be expedited and made more effective 
if we encamped with command. Please order necessary tentage. etiuipage, tem- 
porary transportation, and camp guard, if it meets with your approval. 

Breckinridge, 
Major-Generul of Volunteers, Inspector-General 



270 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

[Official telegram.] 

Chattanooga, Tenn., May 24, 1S9S. 
General Miles. 

War Department, Washington, D. C. : 
In relation to hospital supplies at tMs camp, some cars are being nnpacked. 
Heretofore some regiments came partially supplied, and some of tlieir supplies 
are exhausted. A large number came unsupplied. Only one field division hos- 
pital, because of inferior and inadequate tentage. Only pocket case, and no 
stirgical case such as needed for amputation of upper leg. Five cots and less 
than a dozen of each kind of hospital furniture, including panniers, for this 
command of over 30,000 men, and less than a dozen patients in the two hospitals 
(division and headquarters) inspected, though others now in regimental hospitals 
would seem more properly in division headqiiarters. More than a dozen cases 
are said to be sent to the city hospitals at Chattanooga, some of the cases in di\d- 
sion hospital being appendicitis, measles, pneumonia, purulent opthalmia. and 
tyi^hoid fever, and some lying on straw. Books and blanks hardly adequate for 
another month. Surgical dressings and simple accessories for surgical operations 
necessarily borrowed or purchased. Some hospital water looked milky. The 
introduction of water and stand pipes is proceeding with remarkable energy, and 
promises speedy improvements. The medical corps feels the need of larger 
organization and adequate personnel, both by enlistment in Regular Army Hos- 
pital Corps and reestablishment of National Guard regimental hospital corps, 
which were not mustered in. More regular medical officers seem needed. Dr. 
Hoff has arrived, and others may bf- expected. The situation changes so rapidly 
that present status is represented immediately, and the same or greater energy 
prevails in the medical department as seemed generally displayed liere, and some 
matters deserving immediate remedy receive it. 

Breckinridge, 
Major-General of Volunteers, Inapedor-General. 



[Official telegram.] 

Chattanooga, Tenn., May 29, 1898. 
General Commanding the Army, 

Washington, D. C: 

Conditions stated in telegram of 23d still hold, approximately. We will stay 
this week at camp, though an absence of camping facilities was rei)orted when I 
wj'ote from "Washington. 

Inspection of First and Second divisions. First Army Corps, nearly completed. 
Both divisions reviewed and held battle exercises. Noticeal)ly good body of men, 
but not yet well in hand nor instructed in the first practical requirements of 
campaign and battle, such as marksmanship or extended order. In some regi- 
ments guard duty iierformed in a slovenly manner, and in some regiments manual 
of arms not taught in conformity mth drill regiilations. In First Division over 
30 per cent are raw recruits, and over 20 per cent more, while not absolutely raw, 
have seen less than one year's service in militia, and over 50 per cent have had no 
target practice. Target range and practice seem much needed, and any regular 
officers belonging to this command, especially line, shoiild join at once. Differ- 
ence in enlisted strength of regiments varies over 300, and all are 200 or more 
below the full complement. The economy and efficiency of strong military 
organizations are so strongly recognized that the advisability of increasing the 
weak (-ines of the command to the full complement allowed by law is submitted 
for consideration of the Department. All of the best commanders to whom I 



TNSPECI'ION KEPOIJTR. 277 

have spoken agi-ee to and earnestly desire this, and it seems practicable under the 
second call for troops. The First Di-\asion, First C<n-ps. comes from the States, 
and the earlier battalions sometimes are n()ticea])ly better ecpiipped: bnt the 
worst from some States are better equipped than the best from others, and they are 
apt to know how to continue to get things. The struggle and delay in supplies 
is still apparent, and the more inexperienced suffer. Perhaps the centralized 
system of supplies and the inferior railroad facilities and lack of experienced 
officers of the several supply departments with subordinate generals may have 
increased this congested state. In Second Division two regiments without arms, 
and some other regiments have none for 30 to 40 per cent of men. and guards 
walk posts with wands. Many rifles, especially older models, even if not already 
unserviceable, can hardly be expected to last through a campaign. An issuing 
arsenal and repair shop seem needed. Lack of uniforms, especially imdercloth- 
ing. noted nearly everywhere, and many companies in mixed and some vvholly 
civilian dress, and individuals purchasing stores for piiblic purposes, from sta- 
tionery and light-weight clothing to proA-isions and medical supplies, is one phase 
of the situation here. Regiments have complained that sizes of clothing issued, 
from hats to leggings, sometimes do not fit. and the quartermaster will not 
exchange. Many men are overcome by heat. In tropical climate a cheap ven- 
tilator seems needed for hat under sweat leather. Fresh meat issues have been 
small, and trouble experienced with present commissary blanks, and return to 
simpler ones, like those used in the last war, recommended. It is said 1.000,000 
poiTuds of floiar is accumulating, but hard bread largely eaten heretofore, and 
contract for soft bread made at about 5 cents a loaf. As some question of the 
quality of water now piped has been raised, it might be well to test samples in 
WasMngton. 

Can not the European system for military post-offices and delivery be adopted, 
and men familiar ^^'ith the organizations accompany them, instead of establishing 
postal facilities anew at each place the army moves to? 

My party at Chattanooga has been compelled to go daily to and from camp 
to conduct inspection, so I directed transportation requests furnished. Is it 
approved? 

Breckinridge. 
Major-General of Volunteers, Insjjexitor-Oeneral. 



[Official telegram.] 

Camp George H. Thomas. Ga.. June 3, 1S9S. 
The Secretary of War. 

Washington, D. C: 
In the arrival and departure of troops from this park and the maneuvers neces- 
sary for their instruction, crops and fencing of adjacent farms are sometimes 
slightly damaged. The payment of such damage is in Europe recognized as part 
of the expenses necessary for the instruction and maintenance of an army. Can 
not SI -000 dollars of the emergency fund, or of such other appropriation as is 
available, be placed to the credit of the chief quartermaster of General Brooke's 
staff for such purpose? Payment and fair settlement of such petty claims will 
produce a good effect. 

Breckinridge. 
Major-General of l^ohinleers. Inspector-Oeneral. 



21H TNYEflTinATTON OF rONDlK'T OF WAR WfTFI SPAIN. 

[Official telegram.] 

Macon, Ga., June 4, 1S9S. 
The Secretary of War, 

Washington, D. C. 
This inspection of Camp Thomas led to formation for review of all its organ- 
ized divisions, aggregating nearly 40,000 men, and battle exercises, where one divi- 
sion held the fords of Chickamauga against another, bringing nearly 20,000 men 
to the test and opening their eyes to the essential requirements and instruction of 
the line of battle. No other method is more effective for an improvised army. 
Just before we left camp three regiments were being critically inspected simul- 
taneously by the regular officers of my party, and you will appreciate its effect- 
iveness and the sound principles inculcated and impressed upon these patriotic 
young soldiers by such carefully concentrated attention by experts. 

Having done my part through this formative period, may I not now renew my 
re(iuest for a command appro])riate to my rank and grade? 

Breckinridge, 
Major-General of Volunteers, Inspector-General. 



[Official telegram.] 

En route to Tampa, Fla.. June 4. ISOS. 
General Miles, 

Commanding the Army, Tampa, Fla.: 

After inspecting over thirty thousand men at Camp Thomas it seems demon- 
strated that brigade and division commanders, rather under than over 45 (alert, 
vigorous, and experienced, but not stale) are especially needed for instruction and 
leading an improvised army to promptly and successfully meet the requirements 
of the modern battle lines, and well-instructed staff officers for these subordinate 
commands, even if not so young, are also needed. There are almost none with 
the brigades. Having brigades and divisions so soon under volunteer colonels 
make the regiments suffer from absenteeism at the formative period and necessi- 
tates undue slowness in essential but not showy instruction. Is not the impor- 
tance recognized of training the individual in such matters as musketry? Whole 
regiments and parts of regiments arrive unarmed, and yet no rifles are on hand 
for them when they arrive, and none have had target practice here— not even 
gallery practice. Similarly the training of the tactical unit, which may be 
accepted as the battalion under the present legal organization, needs to be spe- 
cially expedited in an improvised army, which may be on the battle line before 
being proficient m mere military incidentals. 

The way Major Parker, of the Twelfth New York (captain of the Fourth Cav- 
alry), liolds his battalion in hand, and is training it in extended order, is a favor- 
able illustration; and Colonel Gardiner's training of the Thirty-first Michigan, 
thoiTgh unarmed, deserves similar notice. Apparently from the benefits of atten- 
tion paid by the States to the National Guard, the regiments which represent the 
States having the best National Guard appear better prepared for present con- 
tingencies than those from some of the others, even though the requirements of 
battle line are somewhat ignored. In staff work during such a press, it is evident 
how papers, property, disbursements, or transport naturally demand the first 
attention, while the green men must almost take care of tliemselves. though 
needing the utmost care, and through their utter inexperience of every relation 
of military life and administration the men suffer for days for the want of even 
fresh beef or medical siipplies. When no harness came with the mules and 
wagons it made the shortage of potable water more severely felt. To obtain 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 279 

direct knowledge of the individual soldiers and note their deficiencies and aid 
their supply are the special duties of the inspectors, but their duties seem to be 
inadequately provided for and designated. There are no brigade inspectors- 
general authorized by law, though there should be. It can hardly he considered 
that the sufferings of the men will be equally well guarded against and their wants 
equally promptly provided for without the energetic and well-directed and faith- 
ful ^..ssistance of inspectors; btit surely there has been a decided deficiency some- 
where which is now being partially remedied, since the i^resenco of such officers 
on inspection duty as Majors Thomas and Slocum and of staff officers of other 
departments joining about the same time. The excessive labor and constant 
attention required of those in the higher positions in charge of this concentration 
of troops, especially in the highly centralized method in which it is conducted, 
deserves favorable notice and considerate attention, and, if possible, some relief 
both bj' adding to the staff force employed and possibly by changing the method 
somewhat as the organization becomes more complete. 

Breckinridge, 
Major-General of Volunteers, Inspector-General. 



[Official telegram.] 

Port Tampa, Fla., June 11, 1S9S. 
General Miles, 

Commanding the Army, Tampa Bay Hotel, Tampa, Fla.: 
There was i^robably one at first, but now again there is to be a board of 
officers, and doubtless yoiir attention has already been given to the carefully- 
considered opinion of the medical officers as to the present condition and inevit- 
able results imder the delay and slow traveling for consecutive days, which may 
lead to suffering or the enervation of the troops on what they consider the worse 
arranged or ill-adapted transports, especially if overcrowding continues, and so 
militate against landing the force in the best fighting condition. There has been 
some mention of other ships within reach, and among them some prizes noAV at 
Key West, which the public prints say the Government intends to use. The 
Concho, Miami, San Diego, and Cherokee are among those I have heard men- 
tioned in this connection as in objectionable condition. Not knowing how fully 
the matter has already been presented to you, it seemed best to transmit it 
immediately. 

Breckinridge, 
Major-General of Volunteers, Inspector-GeneraL 



[Official telegram.] 

Port Tampa, Fla., June 12, 1S98. 
Secretary of War, 

Washington, D. C: 
The sjime congestion already reported and given local relief at Chickamauga is 
found intensified in the mails here. The only permanent general relief can be 
given by a military jiostal system as mobile as the army itself, and definitely 
attached to it, such as is perfectly exemplified in all its details in several European 
nations. 

Breckinridge, 
Major-General of Volunteers, Inspector-General. 



2^0 INVESTIGATION OF CONDITCT OF WAll WITH SPAIK 

[Official telegram.] 

Port Tampa. Fla. . June 12, 1898. 
Gen. J. P. Sanger, 

Acting Inspector-General, War Department, Washington. I). C. : 
The discomfort, especially of tlie inexperienced enlisted men, seems enhanced 
by the Unsystematic and unsupervised methods or lack of inspections of volun- 
teers by capable inspectors hitherto prevailing. Even the preliminary inspec- 
tion of transports by officers of this dejiartment, recognized in General Sackefs 
Aide Memoire, does not seem to take jilace, and with results easily anticipated. 
Please send me a summary of the several inspection duties of both the corps and 
division inspectors-general (perhaps best if the form of an order) that may bring 
some good form out of present chaos. 

Breckinridge, 
Majoi'-General of Volunteers, Inspector-General. 



Tampa. Fla. , June 13, 1898. 
The Commanding General United States Army, 

Tampa, Fla. 

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of an inspection of troojis 
at Camp George H. Thomas, Chickamauga National Park, Ga., made May 21 to 
June 3, 1898. as part of the inspection tour directed by the Major-General Com- 
manding the Army, in letter dated Headquarters of the Army, "Washington, May 
17, 1898. 

This was an inspection of volunteers made by myself and by officers under my 
direction, with the primary object of ascertaining the statiTS of the trooi>s and 
outfit with reference to their fitness for the active operations of war; to point oiit 
as far as possible their most urgent deficiencies; to indicate the methods to be fol- 
lowed in order to secure the most rapid improvemeiits, and, in addition, to put in 
actual operation exercises approximating as near as possible actual battle condi- 
tions with a view of opening the eyes of officers and men to the end and object of 
their preparations. 

To accomplish the ends in view the following plan was adojited: 

First. To hold a review of each division. 

Second. To make an inspection of each regiment. The men were formed in 
their camp streets in light marching order, their packs unfolded and in front of 
their tents. The regimental inspection included the entire camp and every man 
in it, from the colonel down — their arms, accouterments, clothing, tents, kitchen 
sinks, corrals, wagons, hospital, canteen, records, etc. After that the troops were 
turned out for drill and tested as to pi'oficiency in squad, company, and battalion 
drills, special attention being paid to extended order maneuvers. 

Third. The division commander was then directed to propose a battle exercise 
and give the necessary orders to his brigades to carry it out. After the battle 
exercise was over the insi)ector met the various commanders, umpires, and 
referees, and with them went over the various plans, dispositions to carry them 
out, results of the contest, and errors made and to be hereafter avoided. 

The inspection of the next division was then taken up and continued on the 
same lines. Each division, brigade, and regiment was furnished a blank field 
return, which was filled iip and returned and is now on file in my office. Each 
regiment and company was furnished with a blank on which to furnish the data 
concerning the previous military services of officers and men, amoimt and condi- 
tion of arms, clothing, etc., on hand, and the amount necessary to fully equip the 
organization. These blanks were made as simple as possible and concerned mat- 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 281 

ters which, every commander should have at his fingers' ends. As it was antici- 
pated that there wonld be a deficiency in clerical assistance, no consolidated 
returns were required and I took with me several clerks from my Washington 
office to do this work. 

To ex^jedite the regimental inspection of each division I called upon officers on 
duty in the Inspector-General's Department, who were on duty with me at the 
camp, using my aids-de-camp for siicli duty where necessary. 

As the inspection of an impro\ased army preparing for the field was almost 
unprecedented and absolutely new to us, our progress in the earlier stages of the 
inspection was necessarily slow, until the plan above outlined was i'ully evolved 
and presented. On those lines an entire division can be inspected in three days, 
with the aid of three assistant inspector-generals and three clerks. So the details 
of e(p-iii)ment and jiractical instruction can be tested and fairly repoi'ted upon by 
experienced officers. 

Reports were made of any special matters by telegraph from time to time, 
requiring immediate attention, and also to the general commanding the camp 
and some of his subordinates. 

The First Army Corps, commanded by Maj. Gen. John R. Brooke, who was 
also in command of the entire camp, was the first inspected. The First Divi- 
sion was commanded l)y Maj. Gen. James H. Wilson, U. S. Volunteers, and tlie 
brigades were commanded by the following officers: First Brigade, Brig. Gen. 
A. S. Burt, U. S. Volunteers: Second Brigade, Brig. Gen. C. E. Compton, U. S. 
Volunteers; Third Brigade, Colonel Hulings, Sixteenth Pennsylvania. When 
the division was formed for review it was the first time it had ever been 
formed. The same may be said of every division inspected. The gi'ounds 
of Chickamauga Park offer a number of oi^en fields large enough for division 
formations, and, with skillfiil massing, for the formation of an entire corps. The 
First Division was formed in two lines, the First and Second brigades in the fir.st 
line and the Third Brigade in the second line. As the brigades were not formed 
in lines of masses, they stretched over a greater space than necessary. 

The battle maneuver of the First Division was based on operations of the civil 
war. One brigade was told to take and hold McFarland"s Gap. and tlie other two 
brigades were directed to turn the jjosition. This involved a march of several 
miles from their camps, a careful selection of routes of march, the use of scouts, 
flankers, and skirmishers, and a careful observation of time in order to seize 
important points before the arrival of the enemy. The turning maneuver was 
successful, and the salient features of the exercise were pointed (_^nt and empha- 
sized by General Wilson to the brigade commanders. 

The regimental inspection developed the precise needs of each regiment and 
led to their being more rapidly and more intelligently supplied. It should be 
said that our work in this inspection was much facilitated by the fact that about 
the time of our arrival there the division commander directed his brigade com- 
manders to make an inspection to determine the eciiiipment necessary to fully 
equip the various regiments of his command. 

The Second Division was commanded by Brig. Gen. J. S. Poland; the First 
Bi-igade by Colonel Van Duzee, Fourteenth Minnesota; Second Brigade by 
Colonel Gardener, Thirty-first Michigan, and Third Brigade. Colonel Smith, 
One hundred and fifty-eighth Indiana. For review the division was formed in 
two lines of masses. The battle exercises consisted in one brigade taking up a 
liosition across a road along which a division, consisting of the other two brigades, 
was attemiiting to advance. This required the free use of scouts, the advance 
and development of formation for attack and advance to the attack. A gieat 
many of the troops of this division — some among the best — were without arms 
or uniforms. 



I 



282 INVESTIGATION OP C^ONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The Third Division had been commanded for a short time hy Brig. Gen. 
S. Snyder, but as he was under orders to go to another command the senior colo- 
nel of the division was placed in command — Colonel Bobleter, of the TweKth 
Minnesota. The First Brigade was commanded by Colonel Burchfield, of the 
Fifth Pennsylvania; the Second Brigade by Colonel Pew, of the Eighth Massachu- 
setts, and the Third Brigade by Colonel Dougherty, of the Ninth Pennsylvania. 

The division was formed for review in two lines of masses. The battle exer- 
cise of this division consisted in taking iip a position to defend the fords of the 
Chickamatiga in a bend of the river, the distance in a straight line between the 
extreme points being a little over a mile, but following the course of the river 
over twice that distance. This position was to be attacked by the Second Divi- 
sion in an attempt to force a crossing. The maneuver was carried oiit, a strong 
attack made on one flank, and the line declared forced at that point. 

Many of the troox)s of this division were mthout arms or uniforms. 

The Third Army Corps was commanded by Maj. Gen. James F. Wade 
U. 8. Volunteers, the First Division by Brig. Gen. F. D. Grant, U. S. Vol- 
unteers; the First Brigade by Colonel Battdorf, First Missouri; Second Brigade, 
Colonel Biels, Third Missouri; Third Brigade, Colonel Clark, First Vermont. 

The division was formed for review in a single line of masses. There were 
only two regiments to each brigade in the division. Many of the troops were 
without arms or uniforms. 

At this stage of the inspection I was summoned by telegraph to join the forces 
embarking at Tampa for an invasion oi the enemy's territory. 

It may be stated in general, as determined by the inspection, that the volunteer 
regiments need for an offensive campaign constant drill for at least two months, 
during which time they should be fully supplied and equipjied. All the regiments 
have from 30 to 70 jier cent raw recriTits, and those who are not raAV have had 
very little drill in extended-order maneuvers. A large percentage of officers 
inspected come from the National Guard. They are, as a rule, zealous an. I fairly 
competent — some noticeably promising — as far as the limited instruction and 
experience of the National Guard can carry them; but when all is said, they are 
as much in need of instruction and experience as the men under them. 

The most important requirements in the way of drill are target practice and 
extended-order drill. Giviiig each man 100 rounds of ammiTnition, it would be 
wise economy to expend 10 to 35 m target practice. It was my endeavor to 
impress these requirements upon men and commanders, and it is believed that 
the plan of inspection followed tended to bring these necessities home to them in 
a practical manner. 

I reported by telegraph from time to time the most salient features of the 
inspection and those matters requiring immediate attention, and have gathered 
here only a brief outline of the scope and results of the inspection as far as they 
refer to the primary object to be attained. 

Perhaps I can hardly hope now to present the matter so as to win full appre- 
ciation for the energy and jjersistence with which the inspection was pressed, 
and of the intensity of the scrutiny and tests of each individ.ual soldier as he stood 
armed or unarmed in his company, and also of the organizations as they lived or 
moved to the battle line. It is equally difficult to recognize the resiilts due to such 
a united effort of officers, well skilled in their various functions and pulling 
together faithfully for all they were worth to accomplish results or begin meth- 
ods that were glaringly needed and it devolved on them to initiate. However 
unrecognized or unappreciated, the work was well and effectively done as ordered. 
As the Secretary said orally that he specially desired the report, this is submitted 
before going to sea. Perhaps no such concentrated effort of an equally efficient 
party can be expected to again occur, and if it makes no impress upon the men it 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 283 

touclied it will be a remarkable illustration of the innate diflScnlties of the present 
situation. It deserves every success, even if its destiny accords none, wnth such 
officers as Major G-arlington, Captains Slocuni and Rogers, of the cavalry, and 
Davis, of the artillery, and Lieutenants Foote and Rhodes, from the Regular Army, 
performing this duty %vith definite instructions to make the reqiiirenients of 
the campaign antl line of battle the dominant features. All who know these ( )fficers 
must be aware tliat their united work must tell effectively. Each officer had an 
experienced clerk helping on the work most beneficially. 

It might even appear that the functions of the Inspector-Greneral's Department, 
and the duties of inspectors, indi\ddually, were in nearly absolute abeyance when 
the order was being for:\iulated and the party started from Washington to visit 
the camp, and the results were patent. Neither the Dei^artment nor district sys- 
tem of assignment of inspectors fully fits the requirements of v/ar, and the law 
for volunteers assigns them to coi-ps and divisions. The number of inspectors- 
general is noticeably inadequate; indeed, there are none authorized by law for 
brigades, though their need has been established by precedent and recognized by 
those best able to appreciate their aid in every military emergency since the 
foimdatiou of the Government till now. To deprive the troops and subordinate 
general officers of the services so essential to their comfort and efficiency seems 
hardly fair when patriotic citizens are called from their ordinary avocations and 
have to undergo unwonted hardships and discomforts, which are enhanced into 
trials and miseries by the absence of an adequate force of inspectors whose duty 
it is to see each man and find out what is wrong and remedy it. But it is believed 
that when I started from Washington there was not an inspector-general on duty 
as such with any brigade, division, or corjis of our Volunteer Army, nor did it 
seem possible to get an adequate and capable force of officers authorized by law 
in time to meet the first trying exx^eriences of a new life when masses of inexpe- 
rienced, undisciplined, partially organized men were necessarily herded in cami^s,. 
ill supplied with even water and transportation. Perhaps this is not scientific 
soldiering, nor the method of any other nation, but it all comes right in the end. 
All the sux3i)ly departments may be well supplied in advance and do their perfect 
work in their resi^ective offices, but occasionally camps of untrained men might 
still live like an unkempt orphan asylum. Perhaps whatever foundation exists 
for the newspaper stories of suffering among the men for food, etc., may be par- 
tially attributed to a lack all along the line of an early and adequate supjily of 
capable and authorized iuvspectors; and if that is so perhaps other injuries from 
the same source mitst be expected — too manifold and self-evident to be detailed 
here. 

General Sacketfs Aide Memoire indicates some things that ought to l)e care- 
fiilly scrutinized by inspectors-general, but are now occasionally receiving little 
or no attention nor siipervision from them; for instance, the thorough inspection 
t)f transports before acceptance or sailing. The consideration of Congress might 
possibly be given to the present condition — consideration both for the enlisted 
man and the Inspector-General's Department; for, of coiirse, more than fairness, 
indeed, generous treatment, is intended toward both, and the relation of this ques- 
ti(jn to the contentment and daily life and comfort of the enlisted ni<'n may deserve 
tlie kindliest appreciation. 

Perhaps the military system of oxir country is in fault in nothing more than in the 
lack of adequate preparation and methods for jiromptly and properly training and 
caring for its citizen soldiery, when called out in any large numbers commensii- 
rate with the wealth and extent of the coimtry or the importance of the cause 
which drives us into the proverbial horrors of war, which need no intensifying by 
ignorance, indiscretion, or careless or inadequate preparation. Usually not only 
the men and regiments, but everything has to be improvised with immense 



I 

284 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

energy and labor and considerable discomfort, if not suffering, on the part of 
individiials, wliicli woiild otherwise be quite avoidable and without a definite 
plan of expansion and mobilization and assignment in advance of each individual 
to the duties aboxit to fall upon him. The best trained military nations hold that 
it requires a couple of years of campaigns to thoroughly train a finished soldier. 
We are, therefore, both wise and fortunate to have so many men in this first call 
for troops who have served for years either in army or national-guard organiza- 
tions, imbued with military traditions and jjossessed of military supx>lies — stand 
out in self-reliance and capabilities that are most desirable in these earlier stages 
ot the war and have an influence on their less fortunate comrades all around them. 
As a soldier is an efficient combination of a man and a weapon, it will probably 
be interesting to learn what is the average longest time it has required our organ- 
izations to become fully armed and equipped, and what killing knowledge and 
capacity for attack and defense they have acquired as soldiers: but at present 
these organizations are far more diligently employed in getting preliminary expe- 
rience and instruction than giving or collecting data, however useful as a guide 
to others for military operations. If there are regiments which have had some 
training in field works or approaches to fortified positions, their reliability for 
such a possible adventure might as well be recorded. The difference between the 
first assignment of two untrained regiments to the fighting line might be seriously 
affected by one being composed of men accustomed from childhood to the use of 
firearms, and the other largely of men who never pulled a trigger. Such data 
seem only attainable orally now in many cases, and may therefore be uninten- 
tionally ignored at times. Of course, there is a difference between sending chil- 
dren and unskilled men into battle against regulars, but every opportunity to 
impart and increase the most essential skill in the use of arms does seem iinx)or- 
tant. Life and success may depend ujion it. And nowhere has any fighting 
practice with the weapons been found under way at the camps visited; not even 
gallery practice; there may have been some elsewhere, and since my telegrams 
and urgent conversations some practical steps may have been taken at the points 
visited as well as elsewhere. Whatever the difficulties and opposition to such 
essential training for soldiers before sending them to war and battle, they are 
doubtless understood and located sufficiently clearly to not need remark. Such 
questions of saving soldiers from suffering and unnecessary death, and imparting 
due skill in caring for themselves, and so saving lives and increasing efficiency by 
proper practice of mobilization and embarkation of troops before the time of need, 
and also the possibility of experts most economically teaching military men to 
shoot, as illustrated by the National Guard last year near Santa Monica, Cal., 
have been so urgently and fully set forth in the annual reports of the Inspector- 
General's Department and so fully appreciated by the honorable Secretary of War 
and the General Commanding the Army that the indications occasionally of the 
pitiful lack of siich fundamental soldierly knowledge and experience can only be 
regretted and endured, and. as far as still possible, promptly remedied. There- 
fore, the need of arms is a crying one. Unarmed regiments are pitiable. A call 
to arms presupposes arms to issue immediately where the men are assembled. 
Muskets that can hardly be expected to stand a campaign, and artillery, the parts 
of which can only be put together with difficulty, place the soldiers under diffi- 
ciilties and disadvantages. 
Respectfully submitted. 

J. C. Breckinridge, 
Major-Oeneral of Volunteers, Iusx>ector-General. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 285 

Inclosure B. 
battle exercises and reviews. 

1. Orders of commanding general First Division. First Corps. 

2. Letter of Inspector-General to cominanding general First 

Division, First Corps, on result of exercises. 

3. Orders of commanding general Second Division, First 

Coi-ps. 

4. Orders to commanding general Third Division. First Corps. 

5. Statement showing time consumed in passing in review. 



Headquarters First Division. First Army Corps. 

Chickamanga Park, Ga., May 2^, 1898. 
The Commanding Officer First Brigade. 

Sir: You are directed by the division commander to establish your command 
in the position indicated verbally by him to-day in order to defend the McFarland 
Gap road against a force coming from the fords of the Chickamauga. Your com- 
mand will be in the position at 6.30 a. m. to-morrow, the 25th instant. There will 
be no firing at closer range than 100 yards and the opposing forces will not 
approach nearer than 50 yards of each other. Officers will see that no ball 
cartridges are in the hands of men. 
By command of General Wilson. 

W. E. Wilder, Lieutenant-Colonel. 



Headquarters First Division, First Army Corps, 

CMckamaitga Park. Ga..Maij 24, 1898. 
Commanding Officer Second Brigade. 

Sir: The division commander directs that your command be in line to-morrow 
at 6.30 a. m.in the vicinity of its encampments, and that you move at that hour 
and form for attack so that your extreme right shall rest upon the northern 
boundary line of this reservation, your line extending in a southerly direction as 
far as M-ill be necessary. Your object will be to secure the possession of the 
McFarland Gap road, which is held by a force in the vicinity of Snodgrass Hill. 
One battalion of your command will be detached to move a demonstration and 
turn the left flank of the enemy. There will be no firing at closer range than 100 
yards and the opposing forces will not approach nearer than 50 yards of each 
other. Officers -will see to it that no ball cartridges are in the hands of the men. 
The division commander will accompany the Inspector-General. Ma j. Gen. J. C. 
Breckinridge who will be represented uiion tlie field by his chief of staff, Lieut. 
Col. W. E. Wilder, who will issue such further instructions as may be necessary 
at the time. 

By command of General Wilson. 

W. E. Wilder Lieutenant-Colonel. 



Headquarters First Division. First Army Corps, 

Cliickaiiianga Park, Ga., May 24, 1398. 

Commanding Officer Third Brigade. 

Sir: The division commander directs that your command move to-morrow at 
6 a. m., and execute, under the giiidance of its adjutant. Lieutenant Fullington. 



286 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Fourth Ohio, a turning movement upon the left flank of the enemy, holding the 
McFarland Gap road in the vicinity of Snodgi-ass Hill. You will carry out the 
verbal instructions issued to-day. No firing w^ll be allowed at closer range than 
100 yards, and the opposing forces will not approach closer than 50 yards of each 
other. 
By command of General Wilson. 

W. E. Wilder, Lkntenaui-Colond. 



War Department, Office of the Inspector-General, 

Chattanooga, Tenn., May 25, IS'JS. 
Maj. Gen. J. H. Wilson, 

Commanding First Division, First Army Corps, 

Camp George H. Thomas, Ga 
Dear General: A remark you and I heard at the exercises this morning pos- 
sibly indicated that there has been some mixed feelings concerning the methods 
of the present inspection of the expeditionary army, but such main featiires as the 
review and battle exercises of the First Division of the First Army Corps under 
your command have been completed with careful preparation and excellence, 
and doubtless some military training and instruction. I hope I may be per- 
mitted to express my warm appreciation of the soldierly and spirited assistance 
you have so effectively and heartily given toward the successful performance of 
this almost unprecedented inspection; and may I ask you to assist still further, if 
opportunity offers, by letting the divisions we may have to inspect know and 
fairly appreciate how to aid tis in the performance of this urgent public duty. 
We can only hope that as far as caiTied out it may prove beneficial. 
Yours, very truly, 

J. C. Breckinridge. 



General Orders. ^ Hdc^rs. Second Division, First Army Corps, 

(. Camp George H. Thom^vs, 

No. 19. ) CMckamauga Park, Ga., May S7, ISDS. 

This conmiand ^vill engage in battle exercises to-morrow, the 28th instant. The 
brig-ades Avill ])e formed and ready to move out at 6.45 a. m. It will be divided into 
parts to represent opposing forces, and positions and functions will be indicated 
and assigned to each. In the execution of these movements the drill regulations, 
close and extended order, ^^dll be conformed to as strictly as practicable, especially 
the riiles for the advance guards, scouts, and skirmishers. 

No cartridges of any kind will be carried by the men, and each man will be 
carefully inspected at the formation imder arms of their companies. Cartridges 
in their hands now will be turned in to the first sergeant after breakfast. 

During the battle exercises opposing forces will not approach each other nearer 
than 75 yards, nor will the semblance of firing be continued after reaching the 
specified distance of 75 yards. 

When the objects described in the order for the several forces have been accom- 
plished by either of the opposing forces, the signal " cease firing "' will be sounded 
by the direction of the division commander, and instructions will be given to 
return the troops to their respective camps. 

The first call will be sounded at 6.15 a. m. and the assembly at 6.30 a. m., at 
brigade headquarters, and repeated in the regiments. 

By command of Brigadier-General Poland. 

Louis V. Caziarc, 
Assistant Adjutant' General. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 287 

Strictly confidential.] Headquarters First Division, 

First Army Corps, 
Chickamauga Park, Ga., May B7, 1898. 
Col. Cornelius Gardener, 

Thirty-first Michigan Volunteers, Conwianding First Brigade, 

Second Division, First Army Corps. 
Sir: The proposed battle exercises for this command on May 18tli are based 
upon the supposition that information has been received by the division com- 
mander that <i considerable force ot the enemy is marching from the Dyer farm 
west of Lafayette road, eastwaidly via Brotherton road, having for its objective 
point the Alexander Bridge on the Chickamauga River south of your camp. It is 
desirable that this force be intercepted and, if possible, destroyed. You will 
have your brigade formed at 6.30 a. m , and move south oh road from Jay's Hill to 
point marked "A ' on the map, herewith, thence west to the point marked " B," 
and thence northwest till you meet the opposing force. You will take every pre- 
caution against surprise, and will not expose your troops unnecessarily to view 
by the enemy. To distinguish your troops from the enemy you will cause your 
officers, and, as far as possible, your men to wear white bandages about the hat. 
By command of Brigadier-General Poland. 

W. C. Wren. 
First Lieutenant, Seventeenth Infantry, Aid-de-Camp. 



Strictly confidential.] Headquarters Second Division, 

First Army Corps, 
Camp George H. Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga.. May 21, 1898. 
Col. H. D. Smith, 

ISSth Indiana Volunteers, Commanding Second Brigade, 

Second Division, First Aryny Corps. 
Sir: The proposed battle exercises for this command on Saturday, May 38, are 
based upon the supposition that information has been received that a considerable 
force of the enemy is marching from the Dyer farm, west of Lafayette road, 
eastwardly via the Brotherton road, having for its objective point the Alexander 
Bridge on the Chickamauga River. It is desirable that this force be intercepted 
and, if possible, destroyed. As eventualities may require the cooperation of your 
brigade with other troops, you will move promptly at 7 o'clock a. m., Saturday, 
May 28, to the south of your camp, halt, and report to Col. Cornelius Gardener, 
Thirty-first Michigan Volunteers, commanding First Brigade, Second Division, 
First Army Corps. 

You w^ll have the officers and men of your command as far as practicable wear 
white bands on their hats. 
By command of General Poland. 

W. C. Wren, 
First Lieutenant, Seventeenth United States Infantry, A. D. C. 



Strictly confidential.] Headquarters Second Division, 

First Army Corps, 
Camp George H. Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga., May 27, 1898. 
Col. W. D. Van Duzee, 

Fourteenth Minnesota Volunteers, Commanding Third Brigade. 
Sir: The proposed battle exercises for this command on Saturday. May 38, are 
l)ased upon the supposition that the information has been received by the division 
(•(juimander that a large force is advancing from Jay"s mill, on the Brotherton 



288 INVESTJGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

road. It is importaut that you take yotir brigade and move it to the position 
indicated by the line A — B on the map herewith inclosed. Yon will move your 
brigade at 6.30 a. m. to the ravine west of the field containing the Baldwin monu- 
ment (west of your camp) and employ them in such manner as will, if possil)le, 
prevent the further advance of the enemy. The ofncers and, as far as possible, 
the men of the enemy will wear white bandages aboiit their hats. 

By command of Brigadier-General Poland. 

W. C. Wren. 

First Lieutenant , Seventeenth United States Infantry. A. D. C. 



Headquarters First Army Corps and 

Department of the G-ulf, 
Cam}} George H. Tlionias. Chickainanga Park, Ga., May JS. 1S9S. 
Commanding General. Third Dirisiun. Fii-st Corps. 

Sir: The major-general commanding directs me to inform you that the Inspector- 
General will hold an inspection and review of your command, including battle 
exercises, beginning Monday morning, the 30tli instant, time to be given hereafter. 
In this connection the major-general commanding directs me to inform you 
that for the protection of private property it is expected yoiir command will exe- 
cute all these exercises within the limits of the Chickamauga National Park, and 
that the park regulations, as priblished in General Orders, No. 0, current series, these 
headciuarters. will be strictly complied with. 
Very respectfully, 



Official copy respectfully furnished Maj. 
information. 

By command of Major-General Brooke. 



M. V. Sheridan. 
Assistant Adjiitan t-GeneraJ. 
Gen. J. C. Breckinridge for his 



M. V. Sheridan, 
Assistant Adju teint-General. 



Statement shoieing time eonsuvied by certain regiments in passing in revieir. 



Date. 



May 30,]^ 



Jnnp '.i, 1898 



]2tli Miiine.sota 

5tli Peimsylvania .. 

12tli Xfw York 

2l8t, Kniisiis 

8th Ala.ssachiisetta - 

9tli Ptimsvlviiiiia .. 

2tl Missiii'ui 

I'St New Hampshire 

1st. Missouri 

14th New York 

2d Nebraska 

3(1 Tennessee 

1st Vermont 

8th New York 



Be^au 
passing. 



a. m. 
8.49 
8.52i 
8.57' 
9.02 
9. OC 
9.11 
9.15 
9.19^ 
8.34 
8.58 
9. 02i 
9.07" 
9. llj 
9. 15i 



Finislied 
passing. 



8. 52 

8. 50 

9. 001 
il. 05" 
9. 09i 
9. 14i 
9.18' 
9. 24 
8.57 

9. on 

9. 06i 
9.11' 
9.15 
9.20 



inclosure c. 

tjoerespondence concerning a few of the defects developed during the 

inspection. 



1: Scarcity of fresh beef. 

2. Lack of medical supplies. 

3. Enlistment of colored troo})s in white regiments. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 289 

[Memoraiiflmn tor General Wilson.] 

May 23. 1898. 

The inspection of the camp of the Sixteenth Pennsylvania developed the fol- 
lowing deficiencies, which ai^pear to need immediate attention: 

No fresh beef or dried fish has been issued this regiment since its arrival in 
camp. 

The lieutenant-colonel commanding reports that they were issued incomplete 
rations for ten days, at Mount Gretna, and guaranteed by the issuing commissary 
that the deficiencies Avould be replaced upon arrival at Chickamauga. They have 
not been replaced, causing a want of proper amount of food in this regiment. 
The full ration of vegetables has not been issued, and only one can of tomatoes 
per company has been issued. 

E. A. G ARLINGTON, 

Major and Lisxjector-General. 



Headquarters First Division, First Army Corps, 

Camp George H. Thomas, Ga.. May 23, ISDS. 
The Adjutant-General First Army Corps. 

Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith a copy of an inspection memoran- 
dum, and request that such action be taken as will supjjly the deficiencies 
mentioned therein. 

Very respectfully, James H. Wilson. 

Major-General, Coriimanding. 

[First indorsement.] 

Office Chief Commissary. 
Camp George H. Thomas. Ga., May 34, 1S9S. 
To Chief Commissary: 

Respectfully returned to the adjutant-general. First Ai-my Corps, with the 
following reijort: Uiion arrival of the Sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infan- 
try I Adsited the command and olrtained the report that they had ten days" field 
rations siipplied them for 604 men, and two days' travel rations, and that they 
were rationed up to include the 26th instant , but were short on the issues of candles 
and rice. Last night the commissary of the regiment, Lieut. W. H. Corrin, 
came to my office and asked if it were possible to provide them with some other 
salt meat, stating that the salt meat on hand made the men sick. I found upon 
investigation that the regiment had been issued barrel pork and dry salt sides, 
the latter being an entirely unsuitable article to issue. Lieutenant Corrin stated 
that the ten days" supi)ly of field rations was put in the car and that he was fur- 
nished by the issuing officer, Lieiit. Edgar W. Howe, at Moiint Gretna. \x\i\\ a 
memorandiim of the stores due them, and also stated that a great many of the 
stores were short. I inquired if he had ascertained that by a board of survey, and 
ascertained that it was only a surmise on the part of the officers and that no dis- 
crepancy had been established by an inventory of the stores. The memorandum 
list furnished by Lieutenant Howe showed that the exact ciuantity of all the 
stores required to constitute the ten-days" supply had been turned over, vrith. the 
exception of baking powder, of which only 2o i^ounds had lieen turned over, while 
the command is entitled to 242 pounds. Lieutenant Corrin also furnished me 
with ration certificate, received from Lieutenant Howe, stating that the regiment 
was rationed to include the 28th, and that 217 pounds of baking powder was diie 
the regiment. I instructed him to return the ration certificate to Lieutenant 
Howe for correction as to the date to which it was rationed, as it was evidently 
an error and sliould have read t(i include the 26th. The command suffered con- 
siderably from the quality of the salt meat issued, and also from the fact that 
they had not sufficient baking powder. I authorized Lieutenant Corrin to turn 
7833— VOL. 1 19 



290 INVliSTKJATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

in 3 barrels of barrel pork and 1 ,000 pounds of dry salt sides, and instrticted the 
depot commissary to invoice him 1.600 pounds of bacon. 3,000 pounds of hard 
bread, and 217 ponnds of baking powder, so as to make np the shortage, and 
Lieutenant Corrin stated that this arrangement would be satisfactory. Regard- 
ing the vegetable component, the memorandum furnished by Lieutenant Howe 
showed that 91G cans of tomatoes, 604 pounds onions, and 4,520 pounds potatoes 
were issued the command, which constitutes the full vegetable ration for ten 
days. Whether or not all or only part of these stores were received, I can not 
state, and Lieutenant Corrin was unable to state that they were not. 

Henry G. Sharpe, 
3Iajor and Commissary of Subsistence U. S. Army, Chief Commissary. 



On June 3, 1898, the chief commissary, Major Sharpe, made a further report 
concerning the issue of fresh beef, as follows: 

"The Adjutant-General First Army Corps. 

" Department of the Gulp, 

*• Camp George H. Tliomaji, Ga. 

•■ Sir: In compliance with instructions I have the honor to submit the follow- 
ing report concerning the issue of fresh beef to the Second Brigade. Third Divi- 
sion. First Corps, which the inspector reports was made but three times in two 
weeks: 

" The arrangements for providing the command with fi-esh beef were not per- 
fected and in operation until May 26. The regiments comprising the brigade 
were rationed as follows: Eighth Massachusetts to May 29; Twelfth New York 
to May 29; Twenty-first Kansas to May 30, when they arrived at this camp. 

'• On the 29th of May three days' rations were issued to the first two regiments, 
and two days' rations to the latter, making them rationed up to and including the 
1st of June. On these issues the brigade received 5.301 rations of fresh meat, 
equivalent to 6,6271 pounds. 

" Through misunderstanding on the part of the then division commissary the 
first drawing of fresh beef was made at the rate of 1^ pounds of meat for each 
meal of the day, and the issues were made in that way to the regiments compris- 
ing the brigade, so that the balance of the allowance of fresh beef had to be 
apportioned out several days in order not to exceed the total amount of fresh 
beef allowed for the brigade. The brigade commissary ascertained the error 
made by the division commissary, and corrected it in the manner described by 
reducing the quantities issued to each regiment, and skipping a day or two so as 
to prevent the allowance being exhausted. 

" Issues were made to the brigade for a period of five days, commencing June 
2, and they then received a credit of 9,939 rations of fresh beef, or an allowance 
of 12,423:1- pounds of fresh beef, against which they are now di-awing every day, 
the meat component being issued in the proportion of seven-tenths fresh beef, 
and three-tenths salt, so that each regiment in the brigade can draw over 1,000 
poiinds of meat for nearly four days and not exhaust the amount they are entitled 
to for the i^eriod of this issue." 



[Memorandum for Gen. J. R. Brooke, commanding First Army Corps.] 

Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., June 2, 189S. 

Inspeotor of the Second Brigade, Third Division, reports that fresh meat has 
been issued but tlii'ee times in two weeks in that brigade. 

Inspector of the Third Brigade, Third Division, states that it is reported that in 
the First New Hampshire Regiment there are over 100 men at sick call every 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 291 

morning; that there are almost no medical supplies on hand, and no instiiiments, 
that requisitions for medical supi)lies have l)een sent in repeatedly, but have not 
been filled, so that it has been necessary for the regiment to purchase the neces- 
sary medicines and instruments from their private funds. 

J. C. Breckinridge, 
Major-General of Volunteers, Inspector-General, 



June 2, 1898. 
Maj. Gen. J. C. Breckinridge. 

Inspector-Qenefal United States Army, Cam}) Thomas. 

Sir: I have the honor to make the following statements relative to the health 
and medical requirements of the First New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry, of 
which I am the regimental surgeon: 

We came into camp here two weeks ago to-day. We have made repeated requi- 
sitions for medical supplies. My first requisition was made on or about May 21. 
Another was made two days later, and others have been made since. The sup- 
plies we received were almost nothing. The medical director told me jjersonally 
that no hospital fximiture would be furnished to regiments, and my requisition 
for the same was not honored. Since that date the Second Missouri, brigaded 
with us, has received hospital furniture. We have had from 150 to 300 at sick 
call each morning. For the most part the trouble has been intestinal. Many 
have been very ill with '■ bloody dysentery." We have twenty-five or more cases 
now. mostly in quarters. We have not had medicines for their relief, and having 
become tired of going to Lytle and returning with practically nothing for our sick 
men, yesterday I personally went to Chattanooga and bought about $40 worth 
of medicines, cots, etc. , which were urgently needed. These we paid for ourselves. 

We brought with us a hypodermic syi'inge, which was broken when we first 
arrived. We tried to have one issued to us, but failed. The so-called • ' emergency 
case" contains such a syringe, and we made requisition for it. The medical 
director scratched it "out, and said, '• The regiments can not have them." I under- 
stand some have been recently issued, though they were held in the medical sup- 
ply depot when most needed. 

The supplies which have been issued to us I will put xipon an attached slip. 
They are as nearly correct as I can figure at this moment. 

Our men are siiffering. Besides that which we have bought, we have i^racti- 
cally no medical supijlies. We have not a single surgical instrument. We are in 
extremity now. If we were ordered out, you can well judge of our condition 
and ability to do the work required of us. We resi^ectfully ask that something 
be done at once to equip this regiment with medical and surgical supplies. 
Very respectfully, 

Robert Burns, 
Major and Surgeon, First Neto Hampshire Volunteer Infantry. 

(Inclosure:) Acid, carbolic, 1 bottle; ether, 1 can; spt. seth. nit., 1 bottle; spt. 
amnion, arom., 1 bottle; bismuth subnit., 1 bottle; argent, nit., small quantity; 
canth. emp., 1 tin: chloroform, 1 bottle; collodion, 4 bottles; ijil. copaibae co., 4 
bottles; glycerini, 1 bottle; ol. ricini, 3 bottles; tab. salol., 2 bottles; tab. soda 
bicarb., 4 bottles; oxide zinc, 1 bottle; whisky, 1 qt.; stationery, 1 pad; cotton, 
absorbent, 4 packages; plaster, adhesive, 1 roll; muslin, unbleached, 3 yards; 
syiinges, urethral, 12. 

Headquarters Second Division, Third Army Corps, 
Camp George H. Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga. , June S, 1898. 

Lieut. S. M. FooTE, U. S. Army, A. D. C. 

Sir: Under stantling from our conversation this p. m. that the Inspector-General 
of the Army desired to know the action taken in reference to the enlistment of 



292 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

colored men in the First Maine Infantry Volunteers, I have the honor to forward 
for his information a copy of a letter this day mailed to the Adjntant-General 
of the Army referring thereto. 

Very respectfully, C. E. Compton, 

Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding. 

[Inclosure.] 

Headquarters Second Division, Third Corps, 
Camj) George H. Thomas, Chickamanga Park, Ga., June 3, ISOS. 
Adjutant-General United States Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that there is at this date the following-named 
colored men, W. W. Ruby. Company A; James A. Pai-is. Company L, and Ran- 
dolph Cushen, Company K, enlisted and serving as privates in the First Maine 
Infantry Volunteers. 

I make this report under an interpretation of the law that colored men shall be 
assigned to colored regiments, and also from the fact that two affairs have come 
to my knowledge which are likely to grow into detrimental and serioiTS obstacles 
to the well-being of the serAdce. 

As far as I am able to learn, the trouble has arisen between the First Maine and 
the Second Kentucky Infantry Volunteers, in camp contiguously, by reason of, in 
one instance, a colored soldier of the First Maine running the giiard of the Second 
Kentucky; arrested, and attempted rescue by the men of the First Maine; the other 
an altercation between one of the colored soldiers of the First Maine and a sentinel 
of the Second Kentucky. A friction between the two regiments has thus been 
engendered and is likely to increase rather than subside. I am aware that the 
War Department, by the mingling of troops from all States of the Union, has 
done much to allay the prejudices of the former conflicting sections. In this 
division, now camped together, are regiments from Maine, New York, Kentucky, 
Missouri, Arkansas, and Mississippi, with none but the most amicable feeling 
toward each other excepting in the instances and cases here noted. 

I respectfully recommend that the colored men herein mentioned be discharged 
from the military service or assigned to one of the colored regiments now in 
service., 

I deem this a matter of great importance. 
Very respectfully, 

C. E. Compton, 
Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Second Division, Third Corps. 



Inclosure D. 
returns and statistical information. 

1. Return of troops. 

2. Previous service of officers and enlisted men. 

3. Arms, equipments, clothing, and other supx^lies reported on 

hand, unserviceable and needed. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



293 



Return of troops, First Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., May 20 to 

June 1, 189S. 



Command. 



Present. 



Absent. 



Total present aud absent. 



By regi- 
ments. 



By brigades. 



By divi- 
sions. 






FIHST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Ohio 11 

3d Wisconsin 12 

5tli Illinois 12 

Second Brigade: 

4th OW 12 

3d Illinois 12 

4th Pennsylvania 

Third Brigade : 

10th Pennsylvania 

2d .Wiscousin 12 

157th Indiana 12 

SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 

31st Michigan 12 

3d Pennsylvania 

160tb Indiana 12 

Second Brigade : 

6th Ohio 11 

158th Indiana 12 

Ist AVest Virginia 12 

Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 11 

1st Pennsvlvania 10 

14th Minnesota 12 

THIRD DIVISION- 

First Brigade. 

l9t Illinois 12 

12th Minnesota 12 

5th Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade : 

8th Massachusetta 12 

21st Kan.sas 12 

12th New York 12 

Third Brigade: 

9th Pennsylvania 

2d Missouri I 12 

1st New Hampshire 12 



568 
975 



616 
836 
529 



32 458 

34 760 

35 706 



779 

564 9 

761 10 

726 7 



765 
620 
978 



979 
805 
473 

648 
846 

727 

476 
761 

787 



219 

"94 

221 
138 
75 

146 
215 
267 



187 
142 

178 

202 
214 
245 



787 
975 
974 

837 
974 
604 

604 
975 
973 



146 2, 736 



136 



135 



46 975 
35 602 
50 I 957 

47 766 

50 975 

51 971 



134 
3 



177 
130 

247 
114 
249 

128 
179 
175 



765 
754 
981 



979 
982 
603 



50 895 
48 960 
47 976 



604 
940 
962 



130 



2,415 



2,552 



2,534 



2,712 



2,500 



2,564 



2,831 



2,506 



411 



7,703 



7 746 



7,901 



Return of troops, Second Division, Third Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, 
Ga., May 20 to June 1, 1898. 





i 

.a 


Present. 


Absent. 


Total present and absent. 




O 


a 

s> 

a 
1 

a 


o 
O 


a 

a 

S 
1 


^r^entf!" Bybrigades. 


By divi- 
sions. 


Command. 


o 


Enlisted 
men. 

Officers. 




it 
O 


-39 


First Brigade : 


12 
12 
12 

12 
12 

12 
12 
12 


46 
50 
50 

45 
'45 

42 
45 
49 


982 
927 
974 

984 
971 

965 
944 
819 






46 
50 
50 

45 
48 

46 
46 
50 


982 
930 1 

974 146 


2,886 
1,9«0 

2,744 


381 




2d Keiitiu'kv 




3 




9tli New York 




Second Brigade : 






984 
976 

970 
952 
822 


93 
142 






3 

4 

1 
1 


5 

5 
8 
3 




riiird Brigade: 










7,590 







294 



INVESTTOATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. ^ 



Statistics of officers and enlisted men. First Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, 
Ga., May 21 to June 1, 1898. 



Command. 



FIRST DmSION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Ohio 

3d Wisconsin 

5tli Illinois 

Second Brigade : 

4tlj Ohio 

3d Illinois 

4tli Pennsylvania 
Third I'.riffade: 

10th Pennsylvania 

2d Wisconsin 

157th Indiana 



SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

:Ust Michigan , 

3d Pennsylvania . 

IfiOth Indiana 

Second Brigade: 

6th Ohio 

158th Indiana 

1st West Virginia 
Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 

1st Pennsylvania - 
14th Minnesota 



THIEU DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

Ist'lllinois 

r2th Minnesota 

5th Pennsylvania . ., 
Second Brigade : 

8tli Massachusetts . 

21st Kansas 

12th New York 

Third Brigade: 

9th Pennsylvania . . , 

2d Missouri 

Ist New Hampshire. 



Date of muster. 



May 6, 7. 
....do .. 
May 7... 



May 9 

May 7. 10. 
May 10... 



do . 

May 12. 
May 10. 



May 8, 10. 
May 9, 11. 
May 12... 



do --. 

May 10... 
May5-14. 



May 10... 
May 10, 11. 
May 8 



May 11. 



do .... 

May 12-14. 
May 13.... 



May 11... 
May 12... 
May 9-14. 



Date of 

starting 

for 

camp. 



May 14 
...do ... 
...do ... 



May 15 
May 14 
May 15 



.do . . 
.do . . 
.do . . 



May 15 
....do ... 
May 10 

May 17 
May 16 
...do... 



.do ... 
.do... 
.do ... 



May 17 

May 16 
May 17 
...do ... 



. . . .do . . . 

May 18 
May 17 



Date of 
arrival 
at camp. 



May 16 
...do ... 
...do ... 



....do ... 
....do .. 
....do .. 

May 17 

do . .. 

....do ... 



May 17 
....do ... 
May 18 

May 19 
May 18 
May 19 

May 18 
....do... 
May 19 



May 19 

May 20 
May 19 
May 20 



....do ... 
May 21 
May 20 



Officers. 



a^ 



rt a 

o 
u 






a 

i: a 

T.'O 



ab 






INSPECTION KEPOKTS. 



295 



statistics of ullicers and enlisted men. First Army CarjJS, Camp George H. Tliomas, 
Oa., May 21 to Jtme 1, 7,99^'— Continued. 











Euliste 


1 men. 








■ Commanil. 


Native 
born. 


For- 
eign 
born. 


From 
National 
Guard. | 


From 
mili- 
tary 
schools. 


From 
Regu- 
lar 
Army. 


With 
previous 
military 
traiuiug 
of 1 year 
or over. 


With 
loss than 
1 ye;ir"s 
training. 


Raw 
re- 
cruits. 


FIRST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Ohio 


744 
807 
933 

821 
875 
584 

574 
760 
945 

896 
543 
955 

644 
952 

882 

689 
709 
760 


43 
159 
36 

16 
150 
20 

30 
215 

28 

83 
60 
19 

23 
10 
15 

15 
45 
227 


577 
503 
387 

328 
355 
310 

240 
512 
521 

562 
353 
770 

747 
571 
398 

656 

422 
308 


7 
6 
14 

84 
8 
6 

17 
15 
5 

9 
1 
9 

7 
4 
22 

17 
3 
6 


29 
5 
14 

18 
12 
6 


6 
6 

12 

10 

3 

6 

12 
9 

8 
4 
24 


344 


269 
155 
327 

441 
321 
75 

159 
5o5 
371 

254 

89 
394 

322 

340 
277 

252 
203 
174 


174 


3(1 Wisconsin 


297 


349 

397 
386 
322 


440 


Second Brigade: 

4th Ohio 


440 




287 


4th Pennsylvania 

Third iirig-adt;: 

ICth Pcunsylvania 

2d Wisconsin 


200 
185 


424 
150 

306 
268 
217 

316 
213 
218 

375 
276 
248 



452 


SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

31st Michigan 

3d I'oniisylvania 

I60th Indiana 


283 
238 
419 


Second Brigade: 

6th Ohio 


143 


158th Indiana 

1st West Virginia... 
Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 


425 
586 

122 


1st Pennsylvania 

14th Minnesota 

THIRD DIVISION. 
First Brigade : 


207 
564 




















5th Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade . 

8th Massachnsetts... 


587 

760 
919 
743 

528 
921 
823 


17 

127 
43 
233 

72 
16 
142 


380 

457 
127 
599 

344 

687 
470 


6 

3 
8 
8 


6 
3 


3 

2 
6 
10 

5 

10 
8 


280 

388 
75 
359 

211 
312 
222 


142 

186 
112 
421 

226 
349 
113 


221 

314 
813 


12th New York 

Third Brigade : 

0th Pennsylvania 


312 

253 
275 


Ist New Hampshire . 


406 



20(i 



INVESTIGATION oF CON])UCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 



Statistics of oj/icers and enlisted men. Second Division, Third Army Corps, Cavip 
George H. Thomas, Ga., June 1 to 3, 1S98. 





Date of innstor. 


Date of 
starting 
for camp. 


Date of 
arriving 
at camp. 


Oificers. 


Comiiiaiid. 


a 
.2 

a* 
g 


1 . 

o 




o ♦- 

> a 


a 

m S 


II 

3 ^ o 

S <c o 
fH o m 

C5 


First Brigade : 


May 14-20 

May 3 20 


May 25 


May 27 
May 26 
do ... 


22 
26 

47 

33 
13 

36 
38 
50 










12 


2d Keutiicky 

Otii New York 






2 




3 


May21 

Mav 14 25 . . 


May 24 


3 

1 
1 


2 

3 
3 




Second Bri.aadtt: 


' i 
1 

2 
1 


1 


...... 


3 




May 18 

May 11-13 

May 16-24 

May25 


May 25 

May 27 
May 30 
May 28 


May 27 

May 30 
Mav 31 
....do... 


11 


Third lirignde : 


3 


1st Mississippi 


1 


1 


6 
4 



















Enlisted men. 








Command. 


Native 
born. 


For- 
eign 
born. 


From 
National 
Guard. 


From 
mili- 
tary 
schools. 


From 
Regu- 
lar 
Army. 


With 
previous 
military 
training 
of 1 year 
or over. 


With 
less than 
1 year's 
training. 


Haw 
re- 
cruits. 


First Brigade: 


924 
900 
773 

963 

902 

868 
913 
756 


40 

13 

204 

22 
66 

101 
36 
66 


168 
233 
238 

211 
556 

G28 
216 
628 


42 
13 
12 

12 
64 

34 
79 
31 


4 

12 

12 

6 

28 

5 
7 
16 


84 
39 
196 

78 
143 

356 
176 
331 


41 
35 
322 

202 
232 

308 

40 

398 


625 


'Jd Kculnikv 

Otli Nc«- York 

Second Biigado: 

2d Arkansas 

51 h Missouri 

Third Brijzade: 


579 
197 

843 
454 

180 


1st Mississippi 


660 
54 







INSPECTION REPORTS. 



297 



Equipments and supxMes on Jiand. First Army Corps, Camjj George H. Thomas, 
Ga., May 31 to Jtme 1,1898. 





Transportation. 


Clothing and camp equipage. 


Command. 


< 


i. 

1 

1 




i « |3 




i 
1 






3 
o 

M 


1 

s 

g 


a 


FIRST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 




2 

15 
2 

2 
2 
2 

2 
2 

14 

14 

"6" 

"6' 


60 
60 
60 

60 
56 
60 

60 
60 
56 

58 
30 
60 

8 
72 
64 

60 

8 

60 


8 
60 

2 


3 




4 
ft 


(a) 






(6) 
976 
969 

838 
1,025 




870 
974 
969 


870 
974 
969 










208 


976 






(c) 

Yes 
11 
(c) 




969 


Second Brigade: 












' 








1,025 


1,025 


1,025 












Third Brigade : " 




. 






602 
957 
950 

980 
604 
901 

976 
975 
961 

845 
757 
621 


512 


979 

350 







962 



554 




567 
975 
950 

977 
604 
971 

825 
839 
950 

699 
743 
633 


567 
975 
950 

976 
603 
965 

675 
787 
953 

702 
736 
503 


589 




8 
52 








Yes 

(c) 

10 
6 


12 
14 
11 

14 
11 







975 




15 

3 
9 

1 

2 
18 
16 

15 
2 
15 






950 


SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 


'"62' 
162 



65 


""m 




209 
100 
65 

184 
166 

277 

198 
166 
105 


976 


3d Pennsylvania 


24 
58 


589 
951 


Second Brigade : 


5 
23 
34 

30 

8 

60 






"6' 




622 




688 


1st West Virginia 

Third Brigade: 

2(1 Ohio 


938 
668 


1st Pennsylvania 


633 
513 


THIRD DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 
































5th Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade : 

8th Massachusetts 


15 

9 

15 

2 



15 


10 

10 




59 

36 
60 

7 

40 
40 
59 


60 

36 
60 

7 

40 
40 
30 




"6 


11 

'io' 

14 

12 
9 
11 


107 

"e49' 
162 

38 

103 




61 

154 
67 
300 

30 
146 
209 


618 

814 

1,379 

968 

600 
960 
913 


465 

813 

58 

946 

637 
864 
909 


604 

809 
960 
930 

628 
920 
875 


0P4 

813 
585 
890 

636 
928 
858 


454 

881 
526 




999 


Third Brigade: 

9th Pennsylvania 


500 
929 


1st Xew Hampshire 


775 



rt All except 3. 6 Sufficient. c All but 1. 

d Complete new outfit of clothing and camp equipage needed. e Sibley. 



298 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



J^Jqnipiiients and supjiiies on liand. First Aniiy Corps, Camp Gcor(je II. TJioinas, 
Ga., May 21 to June i, 189S — Continued. 





Clothing 


and camp equipage. 




Medical department. 


Commantl. 


pi 
o.^ 


V, to 


i 
1 

CO 

o 
m 




§0 

■a 

M 
e 


ii 

2 0.3 


« . 

C8.2 


00 a) 
o*^ 

W 


(a 

u 

p 


02 

•" a 

<o 


FIEST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Obio 














27 

8 

22 

16 
67 
16 

4 
10 
75 

30 
15 
35 

19 
10 
44 

20 


...... 

...... 



4 

3 

1 

1 
2 
5 

2 


No... 

No... 
No... 

Fairly 
No... 
Yes.. 

No... 
No... 
No... 

No... 
No... 
No... 

No... 
No... 
No... 

No... 
No... 
Yes.. 


No. 




976 
969 






275 
969 


976 




No. 






939 


No. 


Senoiid Brigade : 






Fairly 




1,025 


1,025 


1.025 


1,025 


1,025 




No. 




Fairly 


Third Brigade : 

16th Pennsylvania 


451 
975 
950 

975 

553 

1,833 

83 

75 

956 

4 
371 
413 


476 



424 


452 
346 
950 

461 

518 

1,037 

318 
761 
962 

667 
397 
632 


582 
975 
95U 

075 

379 

1,036 

682 
892 
905 

528 













No. 




950 



312 

h 1, 737 

258 
1,045 
1,926 

993 



412 


950 



307 

1,190 

387 
1,183 

1,844 

1,117 
'"i,'58i' 


No. 


SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 


No. 


3d Pennsylvania 

IGOth Indiana 

Second Brigade: 

0th Ohio 


No. 
No. 
No. 


158Hi Indiana 


No. 


1st West Virginia 

Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 


No. 
Yes. 


Ist Pennsylvania 


Yes. 


826 





42 


Yes. 


THIRD DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 


























5th Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade : 


478 




75 

1,559 

863 

432 
2,699 
1,203 




93 
2,250 
1,231 

950 
2,556 
1,454 


171 

91 

847 

72 

513 

864 
770 


330 

736 
865 
866 

576 
852 

787 



73 

31 

""'6' 


5 

40 
14 
45 

17 
30 
51 
















546 
14 

350 
1,704 
1,605 


2 
1 


No... 
No... 


No. 


r2tli New York 


No. 


Tliird Brigade : 

9th Pennsylvania 




1 
2 


Yes.. 

No... 


Yes. 


1st New Hampshire 


No. 



a Complete new outfit of clothing and camx) equipage needed. 



b Drawers. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



299 



Ordnance stores reported on hand, rations, etc. , First Army Corps, Camp (k'orye 
H. Tliomas, Ga., May 21 io June 1, 1S98. 





Ordnance stores. 


Command 







o 

1 


r 


e 1 

■r- CD 

O 


1 
h4 




02 

O 

■.t 

P. 

a 
M 


00 

O 

a 

w 


a 
1 


FIRST DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 


714 
920 
948 

791 
946 

584 

592 
921 
930 

59 

376 



555 
629 
703 

506 
460 
545 


35, 000 
.55, 440 
17,000 

3,980 

30i 000 

29, 500 

55, 440 



24, 000 



600 

3,590 

37, 390 

8,270 

34, 000 
























































Second Jirigade: 


































4t]i Pennsylvania 

Third Ilrigade: 

10th Pennsylvania 


















574 


574 


550 


582 





562 


521 


487 




















SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 


60 

370 


551 
627 
622 

511 
461 
365 


60 

373 



532 
627 
671 

504 
495 
357 




371 



534 



591 

540 

491 






377 

(1 

542 



595 

513 

499 




60 





627 

52 





366 




383 



584 
639 
435 

548 
492 
345 


977 

380 



579 

638 

50 

532 
482 
349 


972 


3il Pennsylvania 

160th Indiana 


367 



Second Brigade: 

Cth Ohio 


473 




639 


1st West Virginia 

Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 


658 
502 


1st Pennsylvania 


482 
340 


THIKD DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 


























5th Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade : 

8th Massachusetts 


365 

856 
320 
946 

359 
591 
935 


1«, 800 

39, 000 

40, 600 

36, 000 

36,000 

8,120 


344 
115 


368 


368 


372 
10 



873 


465 
888 


471 
886 


458 
889 










556 

333 
561 
919 






7 

302 

51 

4 


940 


527 
932 


879 

363 

576 



947 

443 

52 

786 


914 


Third Brigade: 

9th teunsy Ivania 


333 

575 


332 



399 

357 


Ist New Hampshire 


923 





815 



300 



INVEf=^TIGATTON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Ordnance stores reported on hand, rations, etc., First Army Corps. Camp George 
H. Thomas, Ga,, May 21 to June 1, ^555— Coiatinned. 



Commainl. 






Rations, etc. 






1 Bations sat- 
isfactory. 


Properly 
cooked. 


How often 
fresh meat. 


What cook- 
ing outfit. 


Is it com- 
plete. 


FIRST DrV'ISION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Ohio 












3d Wisconsin 












5th Illinois 












Second I5rit;ade: 

4th Ohio 












3d Illinois 












4th Pennsylvania 












Third Brigade: 

IClh Pennsylvania 












2d Wisconsin 












157th Indiana 












SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

31st Michigan 


Yes....;.... 


Yes 


Once and 
twice since 
arrival. 
Once in 10 

days. 
Weekly and 
biweekly. 

Once in 10 
days. 


Buzzacott .. 

do 

do 

Myers and 

Buzzacott. 

Buzzacott -. 

Buzzacott 
and field. 




3d Pennsylvania 

IGOth Indiana 


Not in all 
companies. 
Yes 


Generally... 
Yes 


Yes. 

Yes; except 
3 com pa- 
nics. 

Yes. 

Not in all 
companies. 
No. 

No 


Second Bri£;ade: 

6th Ohio 


No 


do 


158th Indiana 


do 


do 


l^^t West Virginia 

Third 15rigade: 

2d Ohio 


Not in all 
companies. 

do 


do 

do 


Weekly 

Once in 10 

days. 
Once in 8 or 

10 days. 
Weekly 


1st Pcnnsvlvania 


do 


do 


Buzzacott .. 
Hunt oven . . 


Yes. 

Yes. 


14th Minnesota 

THIRD DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 

lat 'Illinois 


do 


Not in aU 
companies. 


12tli Minnesota 


;::;;::::::::;::::::::;::; 








51 h Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade: 

8tli Massachusetts 


Not in all 
companies. 

do 

Yes 


Not in all 
companies. 

Yes. .. 


Weekly 

3 times in 
11 days. 


Buzzacott .. 
do 


Yes. 


21st Kansas 


do 


companies. 
Yes. 
Generally. 

Yes. 

No. 

Not in all 
companies. 


12th Jsew York 


No 


do 




do 


Third Brigade : 

9th JPennsylvania 


do 


do 


Twice in 10 

days. 
3 times 

weekly. 

Twice week- 
ly, one- 
third of 
full ration. 


do 

1 
Buzzacott J 

and oue 

Hunt. 
Buzzacott . . 


2d Mis.sonri 


Yes 

Not in all 
companies. 


do 

d<. 


l.st New Hampshire 



INSPECTION R?:P0RTS. 



301 



Ordnance stores reported on hand, rations, etc., First Army Corps, Camp George 
H. Thomas, Ga., May ^1 to June 1, 1S98 — Continued. 



Command. 



FIEST DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 

Ist Ohio 

3d "Wisconsin 

5th Illinois 

Second Bri gadc : 

4th Ohio 

3d Illinois 

4th Pennsylvania. 
Third Brigade: 

ICth Pennsylvania. 

2d Wisconsin 

157tli Indiana 



SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

31st Michigan 

3d Pennsylvania. 



160th Indiana 

Second Brigade : 

6th Ohio 

158th Indiana 

Ist West Virginia. 
Third Brigade : 

2d Olilo 

Ist Pennsylvania . . 
11th Minnesota 



THIRD DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Illinois 

12th Minnesota 

5th Pennsylvania. . 
Second Brigade : 

8th Massachusetts. 



21st Kansas 

12th New York 

Third Brigade : 

9tli Pennsylvania. 



2d Missouri 

1st New Hampshire . 



Katious, etc. 



Company 
funds. 



No 

In 1 company 

In 2 companies 
No 



.do. 
.do. 

.do. 
-do. 
.do. 



No 

In 1 company 
No 



No. 



Regimental 
funds. 



No. 



do. 

-do. 

-do . 
-do. 
.do . 

-do. 
.do. 
.do. 



-do. 
.do. 



No. 



In 2 companies do . 

In 4 companies do , 



Regimental 
canteen. 



Yes. 



-do. 



No. 



-do. 
.do 



Yes. 

No.. 

Yes. 
No.. 



No.. 

Yes- 



No.. 
Yes. 



.do, 



No. 



-do. 



Wliat disposition of 
canteen profits. 



Not yet made. 
Divided among 
messes. 



No profit. 
Not yet made. 



Distributed to organi- 
zations. 



Divided. 



Distributed toorgani- 
zation-s. 



302 INVESTKJATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Equipments, clotldiig, ordnance, etc., reported uuserviceable, First Army Corps, 
Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., Maij SI to June i, 1S9S. 





Transportation. 


Clothing and camp equipage. 


Command. 


s 

o 

r 

Q 
u 


1 
1 


s 

3 


i 

A 

o 

1 

ZD 

8 


o 
u 

■° 03 
|g 

S 
o 


1 




o 

CD 

i 
5 


1 


i 



m 


i 




o5 



Pi 

1 



a 

(S 

1 


FIBST DIVISION. 

Kir.Hl. r.rigade: 
1st Ohio 




2 






























48 









































Second Brigade : 
















■ 












3d Illinois 






5 


























2 


2 





















Third iirigade: 










































































SKCOND DIVISION. 

Fir.st Brigade: 
















1 


"6' 
'126' 


18 
35 
176 

420 
229 
91 

389 
16 
89 


67 
47 

205 

426 
196 

82 

375 

50 
68 


09 
32 
17 











C 








2 
2 




46 
















3 

1 



159 

471 

30 



126 

48 
109 


22 


Second Brigade : 

Gtli Ohio 













1 










111 
50 


i 




2 


Third lirigade : 

2d Ohio 












16 




l.st Pennsylvania 












6 


25 
39 


37 














30 


THIRD DIVISION. 

First lirigade: 

1st Illinois 


















12th Minnesota 








































1 

(■7 


3 




133 


182 
181 


178 
163 



119 


g 


Second Brigade: 

8th Massachusetts 


1 




4 








21st Kansas 






2 
13 








12th New York 














20 

166 




10 
103 

""6 


364 
58 
"46" 


552 
CO 
56 


404 


2 




Third IJrigade: 

9th Pennsvlvania 

















2d Missouri 












19 




22 
1 




1st New Hampshire 


























a Clothing indifferent. 
b Clothing uusatislactory. 



c Shirts, leggings, and blouses poor. 
d Some of clolhiiug poor. 



e Sibley. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



303 



Equipments, doth ing, ordnance, etc.. reported nn.Herviceable, Fir.^t Army Corps, 
Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., May 21 to June 1, i595— Continued. 





Clothing and camp 
equipage. 


Ordnance stores. 


Command. 


u 

u 
a 

§ 

'3 

CO 


.1 

no 
O 


I 

& 


ft 

Sd 

a 

►-1 


J 


1 


J 
o 


at 
<s> 
H 
O 

60 

1 


1 

0) 
1-^ 


■B 

1 


1 

e! 

a 


CO 

2 

w 


i 




FIB8T DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 










a 37 
(6) 
(6) 

42 
(c) 
(d) 

dl04 
105 
(e) 

49 
100 




































1 






























Second Brigade : 


















I 


















































... 




Third Brigade : 












































































SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 







28 
14 

28 

269 

2 


13 

136 



249 
118 
69 

127 


50 
1 


50 







50 


■""6' 



24 


13 


3d Poiinsylvauia 

160th Indiana 

Second Brigade : 

(itli Ohio 




72 






44 


44 


26 


9 
46 
258 

10 
60 
65 




36- 
103 

6 

7 
6 


144 
13 
104 

53 


245 


259 


■"2 



10 

p 

4 

205 


37 



9 


87 





2 



4 


28 


l.st AVest Virginia 

Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 




55 
104 



55 


147 
2 










104 

1 






81 


162 


34 


81 




50 


THIKD DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 














































43 


63 
146 


25 


1 


3 


46 


51 


79 
296 


86 


87 


Second Brigade 't 






m 
























52 



« 


54 



441 

3 


40 

140 
446 
290 










7 

25 
6 



1 

11 



1 ' 




Third Brigade: 

9 th I'ennsylyania 


14 

1 



6 

5 


8 


28 


"is 

1 

t 


104 
40 






1 ^ 


2 











01 









a 107 need repairs. 6 Good. c Generally bad. d Repairs needed. 



e Generally poor. 



304 INVESTIGATION OI^ CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Equipmentft and supplies reported needed. First Army Corps, Camp George H. 
Thomas, Ga., 3Iay 21 to June 1, 1S9S. 





Transportation . 


Clothing~and camp equipage. 


Commaud. 


=3 
< 


o o 
o 


1 


i 


o . 


§1 

o o 




1 




MS, 

r-l t-> 


O 


FIRST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 


31 
31 
31 

29 
31 
31 

29 
27 
16 


1 


126 
126 
126 

126 
134 
126 

126 
106 
130 

4 

42 



4 


126 
126 
126 

126 

134 

6186 

126 
166 
130 

2 

'I 

4 
16 




3 










5 


















1 












Second Brigade : 
4th Ohio 












3d Illinois 




















1 












Third Brigade: 

16th Pennsylvania 






8 
50 


88 
913 


37 










136 






1 






10 


SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 


79 
24 

2 

'"oi" 


16 
2 
6 

42 
8 
3 


239 
75 
89 

275 

926 

4 

66 
48 
37 


239 
410 
505 

759 

975 

9 

138 
299 
243 


251 


3d Pennsylvania 

160th Indiana 


3 

1 

1 
16 




5 


80 
103 


Second Brigade : 

6th Ohio 




2 


362 




427 










4 


134 


Third Brigade : 

2d Ohio 












291 


















6 
13 


30 




2 




8 


4 








224 


THIRD DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 


































5th Pennsvlvania 














1 

28 

cl 

3 


3 

28 
76 
19 


5 

296 
79 

7 

20 
326 
500 


199 

148 
99 
39 

66 

172 

6 


182 


Second Brigade': 

8th Massachuetts 














266 


21st Kansas 














1 


12th New York 


1 




4 


1 






571 


Third Brigade: 

9th Pennsylvania 






30 






28 


112 


112 






19 


60 
3 


173 


1st New Hampshire 










45 




1 






\ 







a Complete new oatfit of clothing and camp eqrupage needed. b Single sets. c And 3 Sibley. 



INSPECTION REI'OKTS. 



305 



Equijymcntu and supplies reported needed, First Army Corps, Camj) George H. 
TJiomas, Gn., May 21 to June 1, 1898 — Continued. 





Clothing and camp equipage. 


Medical depart- 
ment. 


Command. 


si 
o 


o 




^1 

a 479 


i 

§ 


1 

3 

a 
<o 
o 

m 



1-1 


S5 

S O 

2© si 


O ** 

w 


i 

a 
"3 


1 

a 
3 

u 
■n 

a 


FIKST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 

1st Ohio 


5 






562 




105 




Tea. 


Tes. 
Yes. 
Yes. 


Yes. 


















(6) 

(h) 
al,025 












Yes. 


Second Brigade: 

4th Ohio : 




























1,025 




1,025 






Yes. 


Yes. 
















Third Brigade : 

16th Pennsylvania 


37 

228 

10 

290 

86 

139 

470 

1,414 

79 

280 

71 

347 


15 
52 


263 
582 


103 


220 


115 
262 


22 

85 




(d) 

(d) 

2 


(d) 
(d) 
Yes. 

Yes. 
Yes. 
Yes. 

Yes. 


(d) 
(d) 
Yes. 








SECOND DIVISION. 

First Brigade: 


294 
105 
30 

184 
350 
45 

1 

40 

288 


319 
139 
125 

222 

1,632 

328 

65 

358 
338 


1,474 

217 

71 

203 

1,039 

12 


2,208 
376 
500 

173 

1,978 

12 


536 
97 
26 

164 

1,626 

429 

16 
211 
248 


240 

333 

16 

181 
272 
89 

140 

379 

63 


343 

150 
265 


Yes. 


3d Pennsylvania 

160tli Indiana 


Yes. 
Yes. 


Second Brigade : 


Yes. 




401 
159 

138 






1st "West Virginia 

Third Brigade : 
9t} oiiio 


:::: 


Yes. 

Yes. 
Yes. 


Yes. 


1st Pennsylvania 


195 
269 


248 
199 




325 






THIRD DIVISION. 
First Brigade: 
































5th Pennsylvania 

Second Brigade : 

8th Massaeliusetts 


178 

616 
173 
960 

24 
171 
643 


172 

297 
29 
372 

100 
167 
24 


197 

444 

126 
81 

452 

172 

4 


415 

421 
a 78 
131 

380 
172 
922 


420 

485 
156 
52 

404 

258 

1,055 


486 

277 
81 
390 

205 

2 

518 


380 
280 


150 
74 
















Yes. 
Yes. 

1 


Yes. 


] 2th New Yorli 


525 

6 
86 
18 


80 
555 




Yes. 


Third Brigade: 

nth Pennsylvania 










1st New Hampshire 


405 


Yes. 


Yes. 



a Shirts. 

b Undershirts. 



7833— VOL. 1- 



c Complete new outfit of clothing and camp e(iuipago needed, 
d Complete outfit. 

-20 



30() INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

Ordnance stores reported needed. First Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., 

May 21 to Jtme 1, 1S98. 



Command. 




Eounds of hall 
cartridges. 


i 

a 

o 


o 
<" _: 

is 


O 


1 

Hi 


© (B 


o 

a 
M 


u 
W 


5 


FIRST DIVISION. 

First Brigade : 


45 
56 
26 

42 
79 


























































Secoiul Brigade: 

4th Uliio 

























































Third Brigade: 


92 

105 
10 

941 
263 
928 

178 
209 
473 

100 
230 
401 




15 


18 


42 


20 


584 


49 


81 


118 




























SECOND DIVISION. 

Fir.st Brigade : 


260, 000 


941 

256 
928 

250 
192 
292 

102 
191 
317 


941 
253 
928 

413 
195 
287 

156 
140 
294 






947 
"928' 

768 

87 
484 

69 
379 
304 


975 
286 
968 

192 

83 

223 

130 
426 
299 


238 
289 
968 

202 
85 
353 

146 
159 
304 


243 




•J47 



223 



303 


KiOtli Indiana 

Second Brigade: 

Olli Oliio 


360, 000 


968 
340 










111 






152 

128 
81 
81 


121 

166 
85 
81 


280 


Third Brigade: 

2d Ohio 




140 






159 






334 


THIED DIVISION. 
First Brigade : 






12th Minnesota 
























243 
213 




218 


227 


237 


90 
3 


294 

219 


218 
223 


196 
296 


208 


Second Brigade : 

8th Massachusetts 




222 
















26 

365 
780 
935 




3 

265 

365 

5 








11 

598 

413 

10 


16 

266 
355 
242 


92 

214 

873 

7 


111 


Tlrird Brigade : 




257 
350 

8 


261 


146 


289 


2d Missouri 


568 


1st New Hampsliire 


32, 995 








88 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



307 



Equipment.^, clnihing, siqjplies, etc., reported on liand, unserviceable, and needed, 
Second Division, Third Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, Ga,, June I to 3, 

Oil HAilD. 





Transportation. 


Clothing and camp equipage. 


Coiumanil. 


< 


bO 
on 




i 

O Q^ 

a 

1 


O 
Of 'Si 

il 


u 

o 

3 


00 

a 

o 

< 




MO 

5 


al 


o 

3 


First Brigade : 










" 




137 

314 

11 

a 282 
3 

45 


61 
44 
306 

24 
159 

&74 


910 

2,305 

966 

980 
942 

959 
953 
755 


'i,'92i 

953 



752 




19 
16 

3 
9 


3 
3 





77 
65 

12 
30 


12 
12 


70 
64 

12 
20 


3 
6 






1 841 


9tli Kew York 

Second Brigade: 

2d Arkansas 




13 
11 


972 
909 


Third Brigade : 







8 


969 
'"'823' 


969 


1st Mississippi 


cl80 


d46 
217 


362 

801 













UNSERVICEABLE; 



First Brigade: 
























2d Kentuclvy 














1 


1 






22 


9tli New York 
















6 


47 


Second Brigade: 














119 














1 








15 
4 


147 
2 






Third Brigade: 


















175 
















362 


















6 


33 




5 





















a Various kinds. 



NEEDED. 



First Brigade : 


2 
3 


1 
1 


14 
16 


5 

8 






1 
55 


"ioe" 


\ 

624 

229 

4 


312 

230 

11 


325 








309 


9th New York 






41 


Second Brigade : 


18 
3 


...... 

24 


108 

10 

96 


108 
6 

96 










12 








121 


13 
4 


567 

10 

1,890 

97 


566 
6 

6' 


563 


Third Brigade : 






167 












945 




27 




109 


54 




2 




423 


36 







b Shelter and conical. 



c3 flies, wall. 



d 2 flies, waU. 



308 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Equipments, clothing, mpplies, etc., .reported on hand, tm serviceable, and needed, 
Second Division, Tliird Army Corpis, Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., Jtine 1 to 3 
1898 — Continued. 

ON HAND. 



CommaiKl. 



Clothing and equipage. 



First Brigade : 

l8t Arkansas 409 603 

2d Kentucky 1, 747 1, 655 

9th New York 

Second Brigade: 

2d Arkansas 

5th Missouri 

Tliird Hrigade: 

Ist Maine 

Ist Mississippi ... 
52d Iowa 



528 
286 

970 
334 
769 



1,063 
641 







884 



619 1,439 
932 3,280 
446 577 







1,309 







2,166 



866 
875 
102 



1,316 2,791 863 
1, 902 685 







747 



572 

1,813 

905 


1 

958 



765 



a . 



Medical department. 



Yes. 
No. 



No. 

No. 



No. 



No. 
Fair. 



No. 
No. 



No. 



UNSEKYICEABLE. 



First Brigade: 




















































9th New York 

Second Brigade : 


56 












40 
























































Third Brigade: 


177 

334 

4 


122 










8 












Ist Mississippi 


















9 






80 


10 





























NEEDED, 



First Brigade : 

1st Arkansas 

2d Kentucky 

9lhNew York... 
Second Brigade : 

2d Arkansas 

5th Missouri 

Third Brigade . 

1st Maine 

1st Mississippi - . . 
52d Iowa 



518 

309 

43 

410 
615 

168 

1,890 

32 


164 


232 


235 


156 


156 


3 

100 
36 

123 

(6) 

21 


















240 

1,940 
(6) 
64 


560 

1,941 
(6) 




3,722 

(6) 


121 

1,940 
(6) 
86 







98 



(a) 
242 

94 
(6) 
67 



161 

994 
(6) 
66 



a Full supply. 



6 Full outfit needed. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



309 



Ordnance stores, etc., reported on hand, unserviceable, and needed. Second Division, 
Third Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, Ga. , Jtine 1 to 3, 1898. 



ON HAND. 





Ordnance stores. 


Command. 




Rounds ball 
cartridges. 


g 


o 
m ^ 

r 

pq 


o 






M 


£ 


i 

0) 

a 



First Brigade : 

lat Arkansas 


88 
186 
952 


29 


84 
184 
952 


86 
170 


86 

62 

278 


92 

56 

394 


71 

76 

573 


71 

96 

620 


"132 

622 


75 
94 


9tli New York 


593 


Second Brigade: 


28 




42 

926 



481 


18, 440 



44 

928 



479 


43 

932 



460 


43 

930 




43 

941 












Third Brigade: 






453 






970 



968 









339 











UNSERVICEABLE. 



First Brigade: 


37 




37 


37 


37 


37 


1 


3 




8 






9th New York 


39 

178 














5 






Second Brigade : 




178 


178 


178 


178 


















Tliird Brigade : 


377 






620 


387 


13 






12 


67 
















111 




8 


5 






4 






73 















NEEDED. 



First Brigade : 


152 




76 


70 


76 


76 


76 


78 




78 








15 

944 
319 

331 












31 

944 
319 

863 


19 
'"319" 


17 

979 
319 

21 


16 


Second Brigade: 


14, 540 


944 
319 

2 


944 
319 

703 






951 




78 
160 


80 
2 


322 


Third Brigade: 


68 








377 




251 


263 






294 


264 


493 


504 











a Report is for 4 companies. 



& Full equipment of ordnance stores needed. 



310 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Ordnance stores, etc., reported on hand unserviceable, and needed, Second Division, 
Third Army Corps, Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., June 1 to 3, ISOS—ConfA. 



ON HAND. 





Rations, etc. 


Command. 


Kations sat- 
isfactory. 


Properly 
cooked. 


How often 
fresh meat. 


"What cook- 
ing oitttit. 


Is it com- 
plete? 


First Brigade: 


Not in 2 com- 
panies. 

Not in 5 com - 
panio.s. 

Not in 3 com- 
panies. 


Tes 


Daily 

5 companies 
daily ; oth- 
ers none. 

Twice in 12 
days. 

Daily 

Never 

Daily 

None in 10 

days. 
3 times per 

week. 


Generally 

good. 
do 

Buzzacott .. 

Sniiic lent 
for present. 
Primitive . . . 

Buzzacott .. 

do 

Buzzacott . . 


Yes. 




Generally; 

yes. 

Yes 


Not in 8 com- 




panies. 


He^oiid Brigade : 


do 






No 


No 


No. 


Tliird Brigade: 


Not in 6 com- 
panies. 
Generally. .. 

do 


Generally; 

yes. 
Yes 


Generally. 




Yea. 




Generally... 


Generally. 









UNSERVICEABLE. 



Fiist Brigade: 
























9th New York 












Second Brigade: 
























Third Brigade: 


*■ 






























1 Buzzacott. 















NEEDED. 



First Brigade; 
























Otli New York 












Secoml Brigade: 












5th Missouri (a) 












Tliird Brigade; 

1st Maine 












1st Mississipjii (6) 












52d Iowa 








3 Buzzacott. 















a Report is for 4 companies. 



b Full equipment of ordnance stores needed. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



311 



Ordnance stores, etc 
Tliird Army Corps 



., reported on hand unserviceable and needed. Second Division, 
ps, Camp George H. Thomas, Oa., Jane 1 to 3, ISOS— Cont'd. 



First Brigade : 

Ist Arkansas 

2(1 Keutnekv--- 
9th Now York . . 

Second Brii^ade: 
2d Arkansas . . . 
5th Missouri 

Third Brigade: 

1st Maine 

Ist Mississippi 
52d Iowa 



ON HAND. 





Bations, etc. 


Coiuniand. 


Company funds. 


Regimental 
funds. 


Regimental 
canteens. 


"What disposi- 
tion of canteen 
profits. 


First Brigade : 

Ist Arkansas 


No 


No 


No 




do 


do 


do 










Yes 




Second Brigade: 


No 


No 


No 






do 


. do 


do 




Third Brigade : 


Yes ; in most 

companies. 
No 




Yes 


Divided. 




No 


No 

do 










do 


.do 















UNSERVICEABLE. 



NEEDED. 



First Brigade : 

1st Arltansas 

2d Kentucky 

9tli Now York 

Second Brigade : 

2d Arkansas 

5th Missouri (a) ... 
Third Brigade : 

1st Maine 

1st Mis.sissippi (6) 

52d Iowa 



a Report is for 4 companies. 



b Full eij^uipment of ordnance stores needed. 



312 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Inclosure E. 
observations and memoranda during expedition to cuba. 

1 . Intrenching tools. 

2. Lessons of the expedition, need of strategic staff, etc. 

3. The present military problem. 

INTRENCHING TOOLS. 

It is believed that special attention should be called to the general absence of 
intrenching tools as a regular part of the equipment of the troops. Hardly any 
intrenching tools, save the nsnal small number of picks and shovels for public 
piirposes, accom^jany this expedition; though this nation, in the war of the rebel- 
lion, brought the use of hasty intrenchments into such prominence as to mate- 
rially affect the tactics and strategy of its armies. If the use of the bayonet or 
other makeshifts for this purpose was formerly inadeqiTate, it is no longer so. 
The modern shelter trench for skirmishers is normally 21 feet in thickness, for 
protection against the penetration of modern small arms, and this woiild seem to 
require the use of a tool specially adapted for the purpose required. So jiatent has 
this need become that one young company commander is said to have piirchased 
mason's trowels at Tampa, for the use of his company in Ciiba. 

LESSONS OP THE EXPEDITION — STRATEGIC STAFF, ETC. 

This expedition is composed of the flower of the American Army. Despite the 
newspaper freedom of assertion, its purpose is said to be definitely known to but 
few, but it is doubtless worthy of its high quality. America has no fighting force 
of equal size, worthy to represent her, if this is not. Every general and line officer 
has come up through the different grades in her military service, and is as ripe as 
any we have for their respective commands; and many of the staff officers have 
had broad experience perhaps even in their present particular positions. The 
adaptability of Americans is illustrated by the admirable work being done by 
many officers outside their own legitimate field. Officers of the line are doing 
every kind of staff duty in a manner it is impossible to too highly appreciate. The 
elasticity and adventurousness of yoiithfiil vigor may occasionally be somewhat 
lacking, and the siege artillery material may lack preliminary adjustment and 
practice in expeditions seaward; or even in the ordinary experience in the practi- 
cal maneuvers of large bodies of men, and under a questionable policy is particu- 
larly deficient in military transportations. An immoljile army is ridiculous. 

Many foreign countries are also studying every detail and the varying phases 
of this expedition with most critical care, for few are exempt from similar possi- 
bilities. The Fifth Corps is not alone in need of all the benefits that can l)e gleaned 
from such experience; the whole army should derive full advantage from it. The 
difficulties have been immense, and have been overcome with remarkable energy. 
Only the iiltimate result can fully prove how well or how ill every possible con- 
tingency has been provided for and met. The careful, painstaking preparation 
and study of every detail of the problem to be met, and the persistent exertion to 
fully meet it to the utmost limit of the powers of a great department of the Gov- 
ernment, and with the combined provision and imited effort of every bureati, 
which was so admirably illustrated in the naval expedition to the PhiHppines, is, 
of course, also to be expected in this earliest military expedition. 

From ordnance to small stores and air space every detail has doubtless been 
thought out; and now, with the experience fresh on hand affecting every branch, 
both of supply and of those who use the supplies, can not all be called upon to record 



INSPECTTON REPORTS 313 

tlic lesson thus learned from experience? There is little or no time for this under 
the pressure of stirring events, hut even a word in season may he important. For 
instance, the system of communicating at sea, whether by voice, by dispatches, by 
signals, or in person, deserves to be carefully provided for in every detail and 
with every appliance. Otherwise there may be most unnecessary delays and 
annoyances. In loading. General Chaffee's command, of General Lawton's divi- 
sion, furnished a good model, as might well be expected of two such officers. 
The wisdom of guarding so large a fleet from being undiily emasculated ])y slow 
or ill-conditioned members or tours goes without saying, as the si^eed of all is 
measured by the slowest, and results may depend upon united effort. The need 
of adequate terminal facilities is evident, both for the railroad and steamers, 
bvit marking each car vnth its contents seems not to receive due attention, espe- 
cially when they are gorged and side-tracked for scores of miles. And the 
advantage of starting from a large commercial center where any shortage can 
promptly be made good and competition will control prices and expedite work 
and furnish experts for every exigency, needs no comment. How much atten- 
tion has been given these matters and how miich effort to fully provide for 
the difficulties of landing, can be best told by the officers controlling the 
different featxires of this great expedition; and they can best tell how the conven- 
iences and means xjrovided can, if possible, be still further improved. The 
military service furnishes no better officers. I have already taken such action, 
by telegi-aph and otherwise, as may indicate my special appreciation of the work 
done by Deputy Quartermaster-General C. F. Humphrey. The way such a vol- 
canic eruption overwhelms the ordinary operations of a small town may be illus- 
trated by the tons of mail matter that almost swamped the post-office, both here 
and at Camp George H. Thomas. If simple little matters like letters voluntarily 
supplied complete for transportation clog one gi'eat department, the work given 
the other may be more easily appreciated. 

The gi-eat luck in the Army to ijositively insure coherent, prompt, and effective 
work in the field is the well-recognized need of a body of skillful and triTsted 
officers, duly organized into the strategic staff, such as all continental armies pos- 
sess — absohitely disconnected from all entanglements or organic connection with 
any other branch of the line or staff, but equally in touch with all. The over- 
whelming details of returns and reports and requisitions and accounts and spe- 
cial orders and correspondence which legitimately devolve upon our present 
bureaus, and must cling to them as fatally as the poisoned shirt of Nessus. But 
the higher general staff our service needs should be free from all this, so that its 
highest trained military officers can give their undivided attention to the system- 
atic preparation and execution of every important military affair in easy mastery 
of all necessary knowledge, and with previous assignment of the proper officer 
to every necessary duty, and the indefatigable pressure and watchful attention 
from start to finish to every step, so they are the quiet right-hand of the 
execiTtive, and then their one word " mobilize " means and accomi)lishes more 
under their ordinary care than can mountains of less skillfully directed and per- 
fectly organized and single-headed work. Such a strategical staff would i^ermit 
no symptoms of chaos; would hold all to their full and proper work, and woiild 
mold the organized forces and control their movements, so that the Secretary 
and all commanders would feel the national Army resi)onsive to their touch and 
will as a bridle-wise charger. It is a consummation devoutly to be wished, and it 
is respectfully siibmitted that Major-General Otis, or some siiperior officer, could 
organize siich a strategic staff, and prove its invaluable services to our country if 
afforded the opportunity under the present exigencies. Such a staff has, in other 
counti-ies, been called the brains of the army; it is instinct with horsemanship 
and work in the open, rather than office desks and the combinations they instinc- 
tively effect. 



314 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
THE PRESENT MILITARY PROBLEM. 

In considering the i^resent military problem, \vo\ild it be untimely to submit 
that the adventure at the Philippines can be fairly accepted as setting the key- 
note to the cami^aign and war, and it might look like inconstancy to vary much 
from it, unless most favorable openings or pressing necessities arise. If it is 
determined that in this war we can not reach the heart or vitals of Spain, is it also 
imjjossible to lop off her limbs? And if practicable we should hold something in 
hand to insure an early peace. Every nation has its vital lines; and our war is 
with Spain, whose grasp on Cuba must necessarily be relaxed when she finds it 
costing all her possessions elsewhere. This is what Ciiba can not do for herself, 
and what she may well thank us for doing for her. What we are doing and have 
done, even while training our improvised Army, and at the time of year she can 
strike best and strongest for herself, has certainly been already effective against 
her tyrannical enemy; and all the influences of time are now with iis if we can be 
strongly patient and persistent in the course thus set. To secure a permanent place 
promptly the Mediterranean may not offer to a bold and callable commander 
more effective opportunity than the Caribbean Sea. To concentrate all military 
effort upon the single island of Cuba, which we have declared we do not wish 
to hold, which Spain may already anticipate that destiny compels her to abandon, 
may. merely by undue haste, cost valuable lives, intensify the strife there, attack 
the least vulnerable and fatal spot, impose no new loss nor danger upon our 
enemy, and may hamper or weaken our diplomatic position. We must try to 
make an impression upon Spain where she lives, and strike if possible the solar- 
plexus blow, now that the pace is set. 



Appendix, 
report of a tour of duty with the army of invasion of cuba, june 

5 TO JULY 25, 1898. 

On Board Transport Hudson, 
En route from Santiago de Cuba to the United States, July 25, 1S98. 
Sir: Unless Spain could display some dominance or peculiar aggressiveness in 
her sea power the absolute security of the United States on land was assured, and 
the interest of the present expedition was therefore largely centered in the possi- 
bility of destroying Cervera's fleet at Santiago, and thereby removing all possibility 
of aggression on the i^art of Spain. In the broadest view of the situation, the 
quickest way to insure peace may now lie in an assaixlt ui^on the resources or 
domination of Spain nearest to her \atal lines of commerce, and therefore rather 
in the Mediterranean than the Caribbean Sea. But in June, and merely locally, 
the navy had its attention centered upon Giiantanamo Bay, which it was using 
as its secondary base, and Santiago de Cuba, in which it was intently watching 
the fleet of Cervera. There was, therefore, some reason to effect a landing some- 
where between these two points, although points at the mouth of the harbor and 
also those west might be brought up tor consideration, as in the one case giving 
a general opportunity for the navy to clear the torjiedoes and mines away, and 
in Cabanas Bay, on the other hand, might be found special advantages for landing 
large bodies of troops in small boats. But Daiquiri having been selected, the land- 
ing could not have been effected with less loss, and the movements of the troops 
thereafter were merely limited by the speed with which supplies could be gotten 
from the vessels, even with the advantage of Siboney also, both of which were 
little more than indentations on an open coast without landing facilities. And it 
was seldom, indeed, that the supplies were brought up to the fighting lines in any 



INSPECTION HEPORTS. 315 

great excess of their iiumediate needs, and the entire absence of the usnal comforts 
and conveniences of even the simplest army life during the whole of this expedi- 
tion, and sometimes of medical essentials even in the hour of utmost need, was one 
of its most marked features after landing. Even the shelter tents and flies were 
abandoned , and all bivouacked without the wall tent General Grant allowed brigade 
and division headquarters, or the common tent he allowed companies at Vicks- 
burg when starting. The energy with which every element was driven from first 
to last will be sufficiently understood when such men as General Shatter and 
Colonels Humphrey and Weston had the task in hand. The liberality with which 
every necessary article was purchased that could be found in the market goes 
without saying. Biit the means for expediting the landing of stores seemed inade- 
quate even to the last, and it is understood that lighter after lighter ordered to 
the Cuban coast was sunk at sea, and the lack of quick communication between 
the vessels or of any launches was apparently irremediable. The extent to which 
the transports suffered in their ground tackles, capstans, small boats, and other 
paraphernalia, and the dread their masters had of even greater loss on such a 
siirf -beaten, rock-bound shore was- constantly shown, and the navy appeared to 
leave the army at last much to its own devices. 

It was natural to suppose that there might well be heavy loss in such an adven- 
ture at at least three points, to wnt: The landing place, at some intermediate 
fortified position like San Juan, and in the final assault or contest; but all the 
loss in l^attle was concentrated practically in the single battle of the 1st and 2d of 
July. The several organizations appear content with how they played their own 
part and with their immediate commanders, and look upon the demands made 
upon them as at least uj) to the usual powers of man, and worthily met. 

Great security was given to the enemy by the blockhouses, wire entanglements, 
etc., created during the long course of defensive construction for the purpose of 
dominating the country from the insurgents, and it is remarkable that such 
ubiquitous defenses were not more frequently defended. Special interest was 
■ given to this battle, where our men for the first time faced smokeless powder in 
rapid-fire Mauser guns handled by men in invisible rifle pits, to whom every ford 
and road were absolutely familiar objects. To most of our enlisted men, all of 
whom were regiilars but three regiments— the First Volunteer Cavalry, Second 
Massachusetts, and Seventy -first New York— this was the first battle against a 
civilized foe. In peace our Army is administered rather by post and departments, 
and our staff officers are diligent at their desks, especially in the bureaiis. Now 
the regiments and brigades were recognized in campaign, where nearly every 
officer is performing unwonted duties, even among the regulars, so there are some 
of the usual indications of imfamiliar occupations. 

Nothing like the usiial proportion of artillery was present on the field to aid 
the other arms as accessories before the fact, and comments on and results of 
this can come best from line officers of the other arms. The remarkable marks- 
manship of our trained soldiers was hardly more exi)loited than the gross igno- 
rance of our recruits. The books say that it ought not to be possible to success- 
fiTlly assaull in front unshaken, still more, well-fortified infantry, under modern 
conditions. But in this instance dismounted cavalry, as well as its confrere of the 
infantry arm, did, without bayonets, successfully assault infantry posted on com- 
manding ground, behind water, well intrenched, valiant and unshaken, and the 
severity of the task is indicated by the list of casualties, as compared with the 
actual numbers the immediately opposing trenches will hold. And when the fight 
was over, though successfiil everywhere, we had no reserves — Bates's independent 
brigade having been in the assault first at Caney and then by a night march 
reenforcing the left at San Juan, as Lawton's division also came from Caney to 
the right at San Juan under most urgent calls. It was afterwards supposed that 



31 n INYEfiTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. fj 

the gap between our right and the bay was closed by Garcia's forces, and the 
demand for the surrender of the Spaniards was made prior to any knowledge of 
the intention of Cervera to escape with his fleet or the arrival of the enemy's 
reenforcements. Such a conjunction of events may indicate the rapidity of the 
changes of the situation. 

Doubtless through telegrams and otherwise there have been sufficient indica- 
tions of the intense strain in the whole military situation on the field of oijerations 
which led to the consultation at the El Poso hoiise on the night of Jtily 3, and to 
some of the general officers favoring a retrograde movement during the day or 
two prior to our intrenchments taking shape and the armistice being agi'eed upon, 
which latter remained almost unbroken lantil the surrender. The part I i)layed 
in the consideration of these questions will probably, and may as well, remain 
unrecorded, and needs merely to be referred to here. Probably it is now evident 
to all that it was far better to stand steadfast, and perhaps quite possible to 
advance rather than retreat, so near the 4th of July; and certainly we have dem- 
onstrated our ability to hold our own. Indeed, the fighting of this army came uj) 
to the highest expectations, and accomplished results beyond wbat it is usual to 
expect of a force so constituted. And Cervera's fleet and every fortification or 
armed organization to whose protection lie had run is now numbered among 
the American conquests. And at the moment this was attained this tour ended, 
and, under orders already received, I turned to Washington to submit my report, 
and then report to General Brooke for assignment to the command of a division. 
And I have already submitted a partial report, to which this^is a conclusion; and 
have submitted also, by telegraph, my earnest desire that the command given to 
me should be in the face of the enemy. 

EMBARKATION. 

Port Tampa, Fla., was selected as the place for the embarkation of the first 
expedition for the invasion of Cuba, the army of invasion being under the com- 
mand of Maj. Gen. William R. Shaffer, United States Volunteers. Port Tampa 
is at the head of Tampa Bay, and about 30 miles from the bar. It could be easily 
protected from such small Spanish vessels as could threaten it by two or three 
small vessels of our Navy. The distance from Port Tampa to Cuba is shorter 
than from any other point on our mainland. From the city of Tampa to the port 
is about 10 miles. The country is flat and sandy, covered with an open pine for- 
est. The docking facilities at Port Tampa are for steamship lines running from 
this point to the various points in the Gulf of Mexico. The railway facilities 
consist of a single line of a single-track railroad, connected with the northern 
and eastern roads near Jacksonville, some 200 miles from Tampa. Great con- 
gestion occurred on this road, and consequently delayed in bringing troops and 
supplies. Whether this could have been remedied, in part at least, by special 
management under military authority or otherwise, or by adopting another point 
of departiTre is a matter worthy of inquiry and consideration. 

The troops were encamped in the vicinity of Tampa for several weeks before 
actually going on board ship, during which time their facilities for drill, target 
practice, or military exercises were limited. 

The health of the troops was generally good, though the climate was hot; much 
hotter than most of the troops were accustomed to. Good potable water was not 
to be found in the vicinity, but was brought from a distance. The transports 
employed were those engaged for the most part in trade between the United 
States, the West Indies, and Central America. Some of the transports were freight 
steamers, and were fitted up between decks with temporary berths for the accom- 
modation of the troops. As a rule these berths were quite narrow and in tiers of 
three. Ventilation was not good. In some cases temporary structures were made on 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 317 

the upper decks to accommodate the officers, there not being sufficient cabin room 
on the ships. Animals were, as a rtile, carried on steamers btiilt for that purpose. 
After the transports were loaded it was found that some were overcrowded, 
and it was feared that fevers might break out from the unsanitary condition result- 
ing from crowding. Other transports were brought in and the number of troops 
on the crowded vessels was reduced. It may be stated here that there was very 
little sickness among the troops on the journey, althoxighit was a longer one than 
was contemplated when the troops were put aboard. It was necessary to tow 
lighters and water-carrying vessels, resulting in reducing the speed of the fleet 
much below that of the ordinary speed of the slowest vessel in the fleet. One of 
the scows, bought at Tamiia, was lost en route, and the landing facilities were far 
from adequate; so that both the embarkation and debarkation were most laborioits, 
though di-iven by men of the utmost energy. 

JOURNEY. 

After passing the bar the fleet was formed up in three columns, the columns 
being about 1.000 yards from each other, and the distance between the vessels in 
the same column being about 400 yards. It was found that diiring the night the 
coliTinn would string out to much greater length than during the daytime, and 
several instances occurred of vessels having barges in tow being obliged to fall 
behind the column; and one lighter was completely lost, and a steamer ordered to 
accompany the fleet (the Uncle Sam) failed to do so. 

The convoy consisted of 5 small naval vessels iintil the fleet reached a point 
between the Dry Tortugas and Key West, where 10 more naval vessels, one of 
them being the battleship Indiana, joined the fleet, making a convoy of some 15 
vessels along the northern coast of Cuba. The weather was fine from the time 
the fleet started from Tampa until it reached the southern coast of Cuba; the 
only roiigh weather encountered Ijeing that in the Windward Passage. Only a few 
animals died en route. The fleet sailed from Port Tampa on June 14 and arrived 
oE Santiago de Cuba June 30. 

LANDING. 

The coast of Cuba in the vicinity of Santiago Bay is steep and rocky, with few 
good landing places. There was at Daiquiri an iron pier used by a railroad com- 
pany for unloading iron ore, and also a part of a wharf was still standing. The 
beach, while having considerable surf, was still not too rough to permit the land- 
ing of horses and mules by swimming ashore. On the 20th a reconnoissance was 
made east and west of Santiago Bay, and the commanding general went ashore at 
Aserradero, about 18 miles west of Santiago. This point was in the hands of the 
Cubans, and the landing was made for the purpose of a conference with General 
Garcia, the Cuban leader. On June 21, plans for a landing were made out and 
transmitted to the various commanders. On the 22d the Navy bombarded all 
the villages along the coast in the vicinity of Santiago, and under cover of this 
fire an unox)i)osed landing was made by our troops at Daiquiri. As the water in 
the small bay was not deep enough for ships to come alongside the wharf, it was 
necessary to make the landing in small boats belonging to the transijorts and to 
the Navy. The Navy furnished the steam launches to tow these boats back and 
forth between the shore and transports. The distance required of some ai^peared 
excessive and communications between vessels habitually slow. 

THE ADVANCE. 

As soon as landed, the troops formed and moved inland, taking up positions 
along the banks of the Daiquiri River, and extending to a distance of about 8 
miles from the village of Daiquiri. A number of Cubans that had been landed 



31 S lN^EsTl(iAT!ON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

tlie night previous at a point east of Daiciuiri marclietl westward, and entered 
Dai(iniri from the land side at about the same time our first troops hmded. 
Under the circumstances, the landing of our troops was necessarily slow. No 
horses were landed on the first day, and less than one division of soldiers suc- 
ceeded in getting ashore. On the 23d the landing of troops continued, and the 
advance i)ushed on to Siboney, a coast village aboiit 9 miles distant from Dai- 
(jiiiri. Horses and mules were landed by swimming, and in the afternoon we 
began to land troops at Siboney, where the beach, though not extensive, was much 
smoother than at Daiquiri. There was no wharf at Siboney, but later on a small 
one was built by the engineers from timbers found in a sawmill near by, belonging 
to the Juragtia Mining Company. Perhaps a battalion would have been captured 
at Siboney if a single staff officer had had a horse to carry the order. 

THE FIRST RESISTANCE. 

On the 24th the landing of troops continued. The advance, early in the morn- 
ing, reached the Las Guasimas, aboiit 4 miles west of Siboney, where a skir- 
mish had occurred the day before between Cubans and Si)aniards, in which i 
Cuban was killed and 8 wounded. Here our advance met a portion of the enemy 
posted behind stone walls on a very high and steep hill, and facing a point in the 
road which was necessary for our troops to pass on marching from a sunken road 
into the open space. Here occiirred what has since been called the action of Las 
Guasimas. The First and Tenth regiments of regular cavalry (dismounted) de- 
ployed, and charged up the hill in front; the First Volunteer Cavalry deployed 
upon the other or ridge road from Siboney, which forks at this point with the 
valley road, and charged in flank on the left, driving the enemy from his position, 
but not until we had sustained severe losses in both killed and wounded. Our 
forces irashed on, and at nightfall occupied a line a mile or more in advance of 
the position occupied by the enemy in the morning. The conduct of the troops, 
both white and colored, regular and volunteer, was most gallant and soldierly, 
and General Young's dispositions, plan, and execution were skillful, dashing, and 
successful. 

It may be said in general with regard to the roads in this portion of Cuba that 
they are not wagon roads, but are simply trails for pack or riding animals. Some 
of them have been used, doubtless, in times past for carts, but are now in such 
condition as to require special preparation before being passable for wheeled 
vehicles. The soil is rich and supjjorts a luxuriant growth of trees, brush, and 
vines, making a chaparral rather noticeably thorny and poisonous, that is often 
impossible to penetrate unaided by the machete. On the hill and between the 
river valleys the soil is rather porous, and, as soon as broken down in any way, is 
readily washed away by the heavy rains, so that sunken roads are very common, 
though the ridge road was less sunken than that in the valley, which was most 
used by the army. The streams in this vicinity are for the most part readily 
fordable, except for a few hours immediately after heavy and long-continued 
rains. The roads become then almost impassable, but dry up very quickly after 
the rains are over. Concerning the rains, we did not find that they occur with 
that regularity that we had been led to expect. Several days will pass without 
rain, and while a great majority of the rains do occur in the afternoon, it still 
does occasionally rain in the morning and during the night. During these first 
few days, while we were slowly landing our troops, the enemy seemed to display 
no activity or enterprise, and our base and flanks were securely protected by very 
small guards. Disembarking stores continued a thankless, fateful task. 

On June 25 our advance occupied the high ridge of Savilla in full view oi 
the city of Santiago, and about 5 or G miles distant from it— Lawton's division 



INSPECTION REHOirrs. 319 

(Second) in advance, Wheeler's dismounted cavalry some distance behind Lawton, 
and Kenfs (First) division ccnuiny- up in the rear of Wheeler. 

On the 27th the advance continued, the outpost having reached points within 
3 or 4 miles from the city of Santiago, the order of the advance remaining the 
same. The light batteries, as they came up, passed through Kenfs division into 
camp near Wheeler's division, about the center of the entire army as it then 
stood. The mounted squadron of the Second Cavalry occupied a position near 
the light batteries. On this date, also, transports containing reenforcements 
began to arrive. 

On the 28th the reenforcements land and go into camp near Siboney, On the 
29th General Shafter came ashore with his staff, moved out to the front, and 
there established his headciuarters beside General Lawton's. General Ludlow had 
assumed command of his brigade and reconnoitered the commanding ground on 
the left of the road well beyond El Poso. 

BATTLE OF EL CANEY. 

On the 30th General Lawton, commanding the Second Division, accompanied 
by his brigade commanders and myself, made a thorough reconnoissance of the 
terrain about the village of El Cauey, which lies some 3 miles northeast of San- 
tiago; and there was afterwards a gathering of general officers on the afternoon 
of this date at General Shaffer's headquarters. Orders were issued for an attack 
to take place July 1 on El Caney, with a \aew to making a turning movement, 
swinging well to our right and passing through the village of El Caney and strik- 
ing the left flank of the enemy, perhaps ultimately reaching to the northern side 
of Santiago. In order that troops should be in position to begin this movement 
early in the morning, they are moved out of their camps late this afternoon and 
marched during the early part of the night, bivouacking near the roads, ready to 
take up their position in the battle line at earliest dawn. It may be worthy of 
remark that the moon favored us during all the latter part of June and early part 
of July, enabling us to use many hours of the night for movements that would 
not have been possible in darkness. 

At early dawn of July 1 the troops of Lav^rton's division started into the posi- 
tion previously designated for them to occupy. The one battery of artillery 
assigned to duty with this division for the day occupied a position overlooking 
the village of El Caney, 2,400 yards distant. General Chaffee's brigade took up a 
position east of the village, ready to carry the town as soon as it should have 
been bombarded by the artillery. General Ludlow's brigade took up a position 
west of the village, in order to cut off the retreat of the Spaniards when they 
should be di-iven out and attempt to retreat to the city of Santiago. But with 
soldierly instinct and admirable effect he closed in upon the defenses of the vil- 
lage, and his white sailor hat became a target for the enemy during the hours he 
hugged the blockhouses on his flank of the well-defended village. General Miles's 
brigade was held in reserve south of the village. 

The ai-tillery opened fire about 7 a. m. The battery was entirely beyond the 
reach of small-arms fire, and the enemy had no artillery. The battery opened 
with shrapnel at what appeared to be a column of cavalry moving along the road 
from El Caney toward Santiago, then fired a few shots at the blockhouses, then 
a few at hedges where the enemy's infantry seemed to be located, and then fired 
a few shots into the village. At about 11 o'clock the battery stopped firing. Dur- 
ing all this time a continuous fire of musketry, partly firing at will and partly by 
volleys, was kept up in all parts of the lines. Our lines were drawing closer 
toward the enemy's works, and the brigade in reserve was brought up on the 
line. General Bates's Independent Brigade reached the position in the afternoon 
and also went into the line, all closing in toward the village. Between 1 and 2 



32(^ INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

o'clock the division commaucler directed the battery of artillery to concentrate its 
fire upon the stone fort, or blockhouses, situated on the highest point in the vil- 
lage on the northern side, and which was the keypoint to the village. This fort was 
built of brick, with walls about a foot thick, about 45 by 35 feet, with semicircular 
bastions diagonally opposite each other. The practice of the artillery against this 
was very effective, knocking great holes into the fort and rendering it untenable. 
The infantry of Chaffee's, Bates's, and Miles's brigades then made an assault upon 
the work and carried it. There were a number of small blockhouses on the other 
side of the village, from which a strong fire was kept up for some time after the 
stone fort had fallen. Word was sent to the commander of the artillery to bring 
his battery down so as to take these blockhouses, but by the time the battery 
arrived the fire had ceased. But there was one blockhouse still occupied by the 
Spaniards, and at this the battery fired four shots, resulting in the loss of a num- 
ber of Spaniards — killed inside the blockhouse. 

Orders having reached the division commander in the meantime to withdraw 
his forces as soon as possible and come into touch with the division on his left, 
our troops were not moved into the village, but were ordered to bivouac near the 
road leading into the city of Santiago. I was with General Lawton's command 
from daylight on July 1 until about 7 o'clock on the morning of July 2, and, except 
when they were carrying orders for General Lawton or engaged in other parts of 
the field, was accompanied by Lieutenant Foote and other members of my staff. 

BATTLE OF SAN JUAN. 

On June 30 all the troops were in camp near the Savilla-El Poso-Santiago 
road, Lawton's division (Second) in advance, Wheeler's division of dismounted 
cavalry next, and Kent's division (First) in rear. None of the troops had passed 
El Poso. El Poso is the name of a ruined plantation about 3 miles from Santiago. 
Lawton's division, as we have seen, turned off to the north on the afternoon of 
June 30; at the same time a general movement of all the troops began. The 
road leading to Santiago was scarcely more than a wagon trail, and its condition 
was wretched. The dense thicket confined men and teams to a single trail. There 
were several fords across the Rio Seco and other small streams, which, with the 
mud holes, caused long delays for the artillery and retarded the advance of the 
infantry. The utmost confusion prevailed; bodies of troops, in their eagerness to 
go forward, cut others in two repeatedly. It was midnight before the march of 
3 miles was accomplished. 

The dawn of Jiily 1 found the troops bivouacked on the eminence of El 
Poso, Kenfs division bivouacked near the road back of El Poso; Grimes's bat- 
tery went into position about 250 yards west of the ruined buildings of El Poso 
soon after sunrise and prepared g-un pits. El Caney, the Ducrat home, and other 
buildings where Lawton's division was operating, were plainly visible about 8 
miles toward the nothwest. At 6.45 a. m. the first gun of drtillery against El 
Caney was heard. Grimes's battery opened against San Juan a little before 8 
a. m. The troops of the cavalry division were scattered about on El Poso hill, in 
rear and around the battery, apparently without order, and with no view to their 
protection from the enemy's fire. This condition rectified itself when the enemy, 
after five or six shots from our battery, replied with shrapnel fire at correct range 
and with accurately adjusted fuses, killing two men at the first shot. After some 
firing, soon after 9 a. m. , Wheeler's division was put in march toward Santiago. 
At the first stream, called the Aguadores, it crossed the stream and turned toward 
the right, under the direction of General Sumner, who was in command at that 
time, owing to General Wheeler's illness. Scattered shots were fired by the enemy 
before the arrival of the first troops at the crossing, but his volley firing did not com- 
mence until the dismounted cavalry went into position, crossing the open ground. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 321 

Kent's division followed Wheeler, moving across the stream, advanced on the 
road in close order iinder a severe enfilading tire. After advancing some distance, 
it tiirned off to the left. Lieutenant Ord (killed in battle) made a reconnoissance 
from a large tree on the bank of the stream. At aboiit 1 o'clock, after a delay of 
nearly two hours, waiting for the troops to reach their position, the whole force 
advanced, charged, and carried the enemy's first position. They afterwards 
formed on the crest so carried and threv^^ up intrenchments facing the enemy's 
second line at a distance of 500 to 1 ,000 yards. 

Up to the time our general advance began there had been hardly any firing by 
oiir men, except some scattering shots and an occasional small volley on the 
right. In the charge the Second Brigade of Kent's division advanced behind the 
First, some of the regiments getting into the first line and reaching the crossing at 
about the same time as the regiments of the leading brigade. The division was 
put into position on the crest later in regular order, the First Brigade on the right, 
the second in the center, the third on the left. Similarly, after capturing the 
First line of intrenchments to our right on the San Juan position, the csivahy 
division occupied the crest so taken and moved the rear brigade to the right, so 
extending our lines in that direction. Some of the regiments of this division 
were not in jjosition at the time of the charge and did not advance upon the crest, 
but were still present to act as reserve and later to extend the lines toward the 
left. As the action progressed the enemy's artillery fire began, the shells all 
exjiloding beyond the ford, because, as was afterwards learned, they were firing 
at the balloon. At about one o'clock General Wheeler arrived at the crossing, 
and. after a brief stay, proceeded on the road toward San Juan with his staff, 
obtaining a good view of the troops as they were ascending San Juan hill in the 
final stage of the battle, and soon afterwards reached the command. General 
Bates, of the Independent Brigade, on reaching the road that turns off from the 
Savilla-Santiago road toward El Caney, was directed to proceed to El Caney. 
After participating in the battle at El Caney it was moved back to the left, and 
went into position on July 2 on the extreme left of our lines. Such was the 
position of our troops in front of the eastern face of Santiago at sunset of July 1. 

IX FRONT OF SANTIAGO. 

Returning now to El Caney. aboitt 6.^0, orders were received by General Law- 
ton to move his troops toward the city at once. These orders were immediately 
sent to the brigade commanders, and were complied with by them as soon as pos- 
sible. The troops moved to within two miles of the city of Santiago on the main 
road, and bivouacked there beside the road. General Lawton went forward with, 
his staff to find and definitely locate the position which his troops were to occupy, 
and continued along the road to within about a mile of the city, when he was 
fired into liy the Spanish pickets. He then returned and sent forward a strong- 
patrol of Cubans to find out the conditioia of affairs. He then reported the mat- 
ter to corps headcj[uarters and waited iintll about 2.30 a. m. . and not receiving any 
re]iort from the Cubans, or any further direction from headquarters, he started 
forward again, but was overtaken mth orders from corps headquarters to coun- 
termarch his division and come up in rear of the other divisions, to take position 
on the right. The division was piit in march, and by a long detour, requiring all 
the rest of the night and a good part of the following morning, the division came 
around and went into position on the right of cavalry division, on a ridge facing 
the Spanish intrenchments in front of the city of Santiago, and about 1.500 to 
2.500 yards distant from the c-ity. Firing was kept Tip during the whole of the 
2d of July by both sides, our troops having thrown up hasty intrenchments in 
many iiositions the night previous. During the 2d of July thei'e were a great 
many casualties, resulting not entirely from aimed fire, but from bullets clearing 
783;J— VOL. 1 21 



322 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

tlie crest of oxir intrenchments and going far beyond, striking men as they were 
coming tij) to gather into i:)Osition.or as they were going back and forth, bringing 
water, caring for the wounded, and so on. Many casualties also resulted from 
the fire of sharpshooters, stationed in trees Avith such thick foliage that the shai"p- 
shooters could not be seen. It seemed incredible that men shouid be so reckless 
as to remain within our lines and continiie firing, and it was believed by many 
that what was reported to be fire from shariishooters was simply spent bullets 
that came over the crest of our works. But I and the members of my staff can 
testify to the fact that, in many places along the road leading up to the center of 
our lines the shai"p crack of the Mauser rifle could be heard very close to the 
road; and there were all the usual indications of the near and selected aim against 
individuals. Scouting parties were sent out from time to time to get hold of 
these fellows, and a number of them were captured or shot. It was not until a 
day or two afterwards, however, that they were all cleared out. 

On tlie morning of the 2d, three batteries of artillery went into action near San 
Juan, right behind the infantry inti-enchments, and about 600 yards from the 
enemy's intrenchments. Firing black powder, instead of smokeless, they, of 
course, instantly drew all fire in that vicinity, and being unable to work the guns, 
were obliged to withdraw. The question as to smokeless powder, intrenchments, 
and batters of both light and siege artillery, were matters of the highest moment 
to the men most nearly exposed to the steady fire from the intrenched lines, so 
admirably laid out and stoutly defended as in this fight. During the night of the 
2d our troops continued intrenching on a crest from 500 to l,oOO yards distant 
from the crest occupied by the Spanish intrenchments, and in more cases having 
higher command. The Spaniards made an attack on the night of the 2d upon our 
lines, which was repiilsed with very little loss to ourselves. General Hawkins 
was then wounded, whose gallantry in the infantry charge had been so conspic- 
xious at the head of his brigade. Captain Haskell, commanding a battalion of the 
Twelfth Infantry, attracted special attention at the assault upon the principal 
stone blockhouse at El Caney. 

NEGOTIATIONS FOR SURRENDER. 

On the 3d there was comparatively little firing on either side. In the morning 
the Spanish fleet left the harbor and attempteil to escape to sea. but was destroyed 
by our Navy lying in wait for it outside the harbor. General Shatter sent in a 
demand for the surrender of the Spanish forces and city of Santiago. From this 
time until the surrender of the army and the city, which took place on the 14th, 
there was no firing except on the afternoon of the 10th, when a desultory bom- 
bardment of the lines and city was made by our artillery, beginning about half- 
past 4, and lasting until nearly dark, accompanied by very little small-arms firing 
on either side, and resulting in few casualties and probably not a great amount 
of damage. The Navy took part in this bombardment from a point outside of the 
entrance to the harbor. The result of the bombardment by the Navy is not 
known, but thought not to be very serious, any more than our owti. 

In demanding the surrender of the town, we notified the enemy of a bombard- 
ment in case the city were not surrendered. Permission was given for the non- 
combatants to leave the city. They did leave in the following days to the number 
of perhaps 20.000. filling the neighboring villages and roads with destitute people, 
mostly women and children. It then seemed to fall to our lot to see that these 
people did not starve in a desolate country, and to be as much our duty to .take 
care of these people, whom our policy had driven from their home, as it was for 
Spain to feed the reconcentrados, whom they di'ove from their homes under their 
war policy. The task was not insignificant. 



INSPECTION KKi'oirrs. 323 

INVKSTMENT OF THE CITY. 

From the 1st of July on we continued to extend our lines on both flanks, but 
especially aronnd toward onr right, until the city was completely invested on the 
eastern and northern sides. Spanish reinforcements had been expected from the 
north, and besides that the city was not so strongly defended on this side as on 
the east. Our lines of intrenchments were occupied as follows: 

On the extreme right, the Cubans, under General Garcia; next. Lawton's divi- 
sion; next, Wheeler's division of dismounted cavalry; next, Kent's division; and, 
on the left, Bates' independent brigade. A brigade of volunteers, under General 
Diifiield. was left at Siboney and vicinity. 

There was a heavy rain on the afternoon of Jiily 10 — heavy rain that night; and 
nearly all day of the 11th, with very heavy rain at night. The water supply of 
the city of Santiago was. out on the 8th of July. This, it is thought, had very 
little effect, on account of the heavy rains that followed and the ample cisterns 
which the city of Santiago contains. 

The light batteries, which arrived with other troops on the 0th of July, began 
to unload as soon as possible, but the roads were reijdered so bad V)y the rains 
which followed almost immediately that it was next to impossible to get them up 
to the front. Two batteries, however, did arrive before the close of hostilities, the 
others were stopi^ed on the way. 

General Miles, Commanding the Army, reached headqiiarters in the field on the 
afternoon of July 13, and held a conference with the Spanish commander on the 
IStli. He was present at the capitulation on the 14th, and returned to his ship in 
the port of Siboney on the same day. 

NOTES. 

It is not known that the Spaniards have taken a single prisoner from the army 
during this campaign. We have taken several hundred Spanish officers and 
soldiers, some of whom were wounded. These Spanish prisoners, from their con- 
duct, apparently expected to receive harsh treatment, if not immediate execution; 
but they were, of course, well-treated, and seemed to be surprised at it. The 
wounded prisoners were sent into the Spanish lines. Some of those not wounded 
were exchanged for some of our sailors who were held prisoners by the Spaniards, 
and one wounded Si^anish ofl&cer was exchanged for Lieutenant Hobson, of the 
Navy, though General Shaffer was ready, if necessary, to give three of equal rank 
for him. 

There were a number of deserters from the Spanish lines into oiirs, the reason 
of their desertion being given by them as ill treatment on the part of their officers 
and Government. 

Exiierience has shown that there can be no doubt as to the bravery of the 
Si)anish soldier when fighting behind intrenchments. As to their qualities to 
fighting in the open we have had no opportunity to judge, as they have been 
wholly on the defensive and far from aggressive or enterprising in this campaign. 

Tlie Mauser rifle seems to be an excellent and rapid weapon, and its smokeless 
cartridge adds to its special efficiency, whether eipial to our own or better. It 
is a magazine rifle and is loaded with five cartridges at a time. These cartridges 
ar(> lield in a clip, and are detached from the belt and placed in the rifle in one 
motion. 

The uniform worn by the Spanish soldier consists of blouse and trousers of a 
light l)lue drilling, with fine, whiti^ vertical stripes, a good, serviceable straw hat, 
and rather light-weight shoes. They seem to use no tentage, their protection from 
the weather being by means of their blockhouses, or other houses, or sheds in the 
vicinity, and by such covering as they can get by putting up temporary structures 



324 TNYESTI^,ATIO^" OF rONDTT'T OF WAR "WITH SPAIN. 

of palm leaves. Their food, so far as can be .iiidged from what was foiind in their 
intrenchments after they had left, consisted mostly of rice and hard bread of a 
brownish color. 

In the beginning the Cuban soldiers were largely used as outposts on our front 
and flanks. There has been a gi-eat deal of discussion among officers of this 
exjiedition concerning the Cuban soldiers and the aid they have rendered. They 
seem to have very little organization or discii^line, and they do not, of course, 
fight in the battle line with our troops. Yet in every skirmish or fight where 
they are present they seem to have a fair proportion of killed and wounded. They 
were of undoubted assistance in our first landing and in our scouting our front and 
flanks. It is not safe, however, to rely upon their fully performing any specific 
duty, according to oiir expectation and understanding, unless they are under the 
constant suiDervision and direction of one of our own officers, as our methods and 
views are so different, and misunderstanding or failure so easy. 

Our troops seem to have been reduced to a minimum of protection from the 
weather that they could have by means of clothing and tentage, and from the 
nature of the case they often suffered a great deal from unavoidable exposure, 
both from the heat and tropical rains. Many days and nights it was necessary for 
them to bivouac without pxitting up their shelter tents. In other cases the ground 
has been so w^et that it was impossible to be protected from it, and so they have 
been obliged to remain for days and nights together in their wet clothing. The 
same is true of the officers as of the men — the officers in no case having greater 
protection than the men. 

It is difficult, perhaps impossible, to give adequate impression of the straits and 
discomforts, even suffering, to which individuals were driven, which may seem 
remarkable, as we were never beyond a day's march from the base of supplies. 
In the trenches it was either very hot on clear days, with the sun beating down 
upon them, or very wet on rainy days, with the trenches partly filled with water. 
As a result considerable sickness was to be expected among the men, the trouble 
being mostly in the nature of fever, not always malarial, but a fever that was 
quite high, and lasted from three to six days. 

We were told when we entered upon this campaign that it was necessary above 
all things to sleep off the ground, and hammocks were recommended to secure 
this end. Some were seen in the original bales on the transports, and it is doubtful 
whether the soldiers could have carried hammocks in addition to what they already 
had to carry. Even such heavy intrenching tools as were on hand were felt to 
be a burden. Perhaps it is possible to make a hammock that will at once furnish 
shelter and keep the soldiers from the ground, which would have a material effect 
in preserving the health of the soldier during the rainy season in this climate. 
That there should be any suffering or ill health along the firing line for lack of 
food, clothing, modern arms, or other supplies, may either be temporarily neces- 
sary or hardly credited, according to the point of view^ taken, especially during 
the days when it seemed that no tents, and but little eating, and no animals 
were possible on the advance or fighting line. The need of witnesses from every 
corps and bureau of the army may not have been appreciated, if indeed any were 
needed. What the army cheerfully endured and accomplished with its valor 
deserves the clearest apppreciation, and has doubtless received, and protection 
against unnecessary deiirivations is, of course, always assured. 

Some men, notably among the volunteers, started out carrying overcoats. 
These were left on the transports or quickly abandoned. In some cases even 
blankets, blouses, and underclothing were thrown away. Knapsacks were strewn 
along the roadside. And yet it is almost as difficult in this climate to keep warm 
at night as it is to keep cool in the daytime, as there is hardly a night when a cov- 
ering is not needed in addition to the usiial clothing worn, and never a day when 
the usual clothing is not uncomfortably warm. What became of personal prop- 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 325 

erty wherever left will i)Ossibly prove a problem to some to solve. The khaki 
uiiiforiu. worn by many officers, ipiickly loses its shape and dandy color, and is 
not strong enough to withstand the thorns constantly met with beside the road 
and in the underbriish, through which it is often necessary to x'fis!^- Many wear 
workmen's suits or the brown canvas uniform as more suitable in this sort ofcoun- 
try, service, and climate, than the blue. It is perhaps but little cooler, but it is 
cheaper and stands the wear and tear. The blue flannel or black shirt, campaign 
hat, brown canvas leggings, shelter tents, haversacks, canteen with leather strap, 
meat can, knife, fork, and spoon, however, seem to give fair satisfaction. The knap- 
sack, or pack of whatever nature, seems to disappear, and all come down natu- 
rally to plain lilanket roll. The tin cup is of proper size and material, but is 
still unsatisfactory on account of its being so unhandy for the purpose of boil- 
ing coffee. What it requires is a bail in addition to the handle which it now has, 
and nesting qualities, and a model for patent has been seen. This would add but 
very little to its weight and woiild make the cup very handy for one of its princi- 
pal iises, i. e., cooking. If made to nest with countersunk top it woixld be an 
improvement. 

A serious question, that seems ever to return for sufficient consideration, is, 
what shall be done with the soldier's heavy pack when he goes into action? Shall 
he carry it with him, weighing him down in the charge and jnirsuit, or shall he 
throw it aside, never to see it again, perhaps. In the battle of July 1 and 2 it 
became in most cases a physical necessity to throw the pack aside. In some 
cases regiments deposited their jjacks by the roadside, and marched some miles 
after the battle to recover them again. In others, packs were thrown haiihaz- 
ard into the bushes, and in many cases were never recovered by their proper 
owners. Apparently the Cubans and sick found some comfort from the owner's 
loss. 

The field transportation accompanying this army was hardly sufficient, or else 
tliere would have been less deprivation. Both pack animals and jjackers were 
overworked. It was some time before the wagons could be iTnloaded and used. 
Even after that the roads were so bad at times that supijlies had to be brought up 
by pack animals. At one time nearly all the i^ackers were sick, and soldiers had 
to be taken off the firing lines and out of the trenches to do their work. As an 
indication of the strain, little O]' no commissary supplies, such as are furnished by 
the post exchanges and commissaries, were at any time furnished by the com- 
missary department beyond Savilla. Siich things, for instance, as pocket combs, 
toothlirushes, shoe strings, matches, tobacco, pipes — little things that do not take 
up much room and are of very small weight, bat are of incalculable comfort to 
the soldiers. The stories of the prices paid for tobacco, and discontent about 
insufficient coffee, officers without a shirt to their backs, and clusters of them . 
in ragged alid soiled trousers, are too numerous to need more than a reference. 

It has certainly been clearly demonstrated in this war that smokeless powder 
is an absolute necessity for both small arms and field gams. Often we foTight for 
hours against an invisible enemy who was firing fatally upon lis all the time. 
Tlu^ volunteers, as soon as the Spring-fields were fired, at once revealed their 
position and drew the fire of the enemy, besides hiding the enemy frf)m their 
view. They found it difficult to contend with an invisible enemy, pouring in an 
effective fire from a position impossible to determine. 

C!apron's battery at El Caney had an ideal position, being beyond the range of 
the infantry fire, and yet within comparatively easy range for its own guns. 
Although firing black powder and stationed upon a hill within plain view of the 
enemy's infantry, it never received a shot during the entire day. The moral 
effect of fire that can not be returned or jirevented in any way is sure to be very 
great. The enemy had no artillery at El Caney. In his intrenchments in front 
of Santiago the enemy's artillery was for the most part of an obsolete type, con- 



32(1 INVF.ftTTGATTON OF CONDTTCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. | 

verted l)ronze mnzzle-loading lifles, firing studded pi'ojeetiles. Two modern 
vapid-fire guns of about 4 inches caliber were found lying on the ground lieside 
tlie pillar mounts, which had been made ready for them in the trenches. There 
was plenty of ammunition also. Apparently these guns had been taken from one 
of the war ships, but too late to get them mounted in time for action. 

I have made diligent inquiry among the troops engaged all along the line, and 
liave been unable to find any in which the bayonet was fixed in the charges, 
either at El Caney or San Juan. The bayonet has been used to a certain extent 
as an intrenching tool or to grind coffee. I can not find that the bayonet is even 
used as nmch as the machete is used. It is believed that if the bayonet were 
made much smaller, lighter, and sharper it would serve its present purpose just 
as well or better. Such an article woiTld do for cannoneers much better than the 
absiTrd knives which they now carry. It will be noticed that the dismounted 
cavalry took part in the charges the same as the infantry, and even to a gi'eater 
extent, for the action of Las Giiasimas was carried on by the cavalry alone, and 
they, of course, carried no bayonet. 

It is siTggested that where maps are to be reproduced for field purposes that 
some black jwocess is preferable to the blue, for the reason such maps can be filled 
out more readily vntli an ordinary lead pencil. 

The Spanish blockhouse is iil)iquitous and a more elaborate structure than we 
liad Ijeen led to expect. It has the air of an evolution during a course of years 
for dominating an inimical and insurgent country at every high point and cross- 
road. It is usually i^laced iipon a commanding position and affords a lookout, 
the lower part built of stones and earth, and two tiers of fire, and the upper imrt 
of wood, the top of the parapet being the top of the stone wall, so that up to the 
height of the breast there is complete jirotection against small-arms fire. Around 
the blockhouses and connected with it by intrenchments are sometimes several 
successive lines of field intrenchments. These intrenchments are very narrow in 
profile, and instead of earth being thrown to the front it is more often thrown to 
the rear, to one side, so that the protection in front of the trench is natiiral solid 
e;irth. The soil is of such a nature that it will stand almost vertical in its natu- 
ral condition, so that the slope of the trench is very slight. Such a trench as this 
is extremely difficult to injiire, even in artillery fire, and it is extremely difficult 
to reach men in the intrenchments, as they are thoroughly protected, even from 
artillery fire, by crouching. The trenches are usually very short, so that there is 
not much chance of bringing an enfilading fire iipon them. In fact, nearly all 
the trenches we have met with have been in the nature of permanent or semi- 
permanent works. Barbed wire has been iised very freely in front of the intrench- 
ments and rather near to them, that near Santiago being interlaced on four or 
six rows of stakes in (piincunx order. In fact, barbed wire fences are about the 
only kind that are seen in this country, and every company should cari^y with it 
wire cutters. It is suggested that one wire cutter be furnished to each section, 
to be carried preferably by the chief of section himself. The concentration of 
the fire and its effects rather than the garrison was shrewdly managed. 

Another matter that should be considered is that of distrilnition of mail to the 
Army. I suppose there might be a (luestion as to whether receiving mail from 
home would make the soldier more contented or more discontented with his lot. 
But abroad it is considered the right thing to facilitate the distribution of mail to 
tlie troops, and to keep up their connection with home. In this campaign the 
distribution of mail has been in hopeless confusion, and there seems to have been 
no encouragement given to facilitate the operations by which letters or papers 
could reach the individuals to whom addressed. It is believed that this could be 
remedied with comparatively little trouble, and that the failure to distribute mail 
results in a needless deprivation to the soldier. 



inspp:('TI()N reports 327 

It is understood the foreign military attaches allowed to accompany an army in 
the field are to a certain extent guests of oiir Government. If that is so, it would 
seem that where there are a number of them together some officer should be 
detailed to accompany them, and to look out for their mess, their mounts, tent- 
age, etc., and that they sliould not be left to .shift for themselves. 

In this cami^aign we have found the coimtry as we had expected, in an abso- 
lutely desolate condition.. The ruins of once prosperous plantations are met with 
on every hand, but only in the villages very close to the city of Santiago were 
there any inhabitants whatever. 

The Ducrat House, about 1 mile from El Caney and 2 miles from Santiago, 
appeared all the more prominent on account of the almost universal destruction 
of the hixurious homes which had formerly surrounded it, as was shown by the 
numerous ruins throiighout oiir entire march. There are certain nutritious fruits 
that grow ^vild and upon which a great proi^ortion of the remaining popiilation of 
Cuba has subsisted. The i^rincipal of these fruits is the mango, which grows in 
great profusion in this portion of the country. The bamboo tree has been found 
very useful for making tent poles, or temporary shelter of one kind or another, 
and the larger stalks for carrying and holding water. 

A balloon was sent down with this army, but its principal value was not dem- 
onstrated. This is a difficult country to see moving troops, or anything of that 
sort, even from a balloon, on account of the thickly wooded nature of the country. 
On the 1st of July the balloon accompanied a marching column and drew much 
of the fire from the Spanish position, and some casualties probably resulted from 
this fire among the trooi^s coming along the same line as the balloon. 

The value of submarine mines in connection with shore guns as a coast defense 
seems very clearly illustrated at Santiago. The proposition seemed to be about 
this: The entrance to Santiago Bay is quite narrow. There were submarine mines 
known to have been planted in this entrance. Our navy could silence the fire of 
the forts, but could not keep down infantry fire long enough to go in and take iip 
these mines from open boats. Therefore, they were unable to enter the harbor 
and take the fleet in. The army was asked to come down and capture the forts 
bordering on the shores of the harbor, so that the navy could then go in, take up 
the mines, and enter the harbor with the fleet. We may learn from this, in rela- 
tion to the defenses of our own coast, that where wo have submarine mines well 
protected by guns on shore that we may, as a rule, consider the channels thus 
defended as safe from purely naval attack. And, again, if we would be absolutely 
safe from attack by sea, we must see to it that our fortifications are safe against 
a land attack also. 

The old Springfield seemed a begrimed and suicidal blunderbuss upon the bat- 
tlefield. Of course it can still administer death to enemies, like the obsolete cannon 
in the enemy's trenches did to us, as a pitiftil makeshift. 

Among the telling features frequently remarked upon by those present were 
the conspicuous gallantry of the gray-haired officers (General Hawkins at San 
Juan and Captain Haskell at the Caney blockhouse), when they led their com- 
mands to the final assaults, and the courage and conduct of the colored troops and 
First United States Volunteers seemed always up to the beat. The admiration 
certain other organizations also elicited from their comrades was noticeable where 
all were siich good soldiers. 

The three officers assigned to my staff for this expedition were Captains Alger 
and Rhodes and Lieutenant Foote, and each was required to make full notes of 
what they saw. On July 1 Captain Alger was with the demonstration at Aguadores 
on the left. Captain Rhodes at the center and right, and Lieutenant Foote with me, 
accompanying General Lawton's division. Their admirable personal and official 
conduct diiring the battle has already been referred to in a telegram to the Depart- 
ment, and special attention is again invited to their admirable record and .soldierly 



328 INVEFTmATTON OF ClONDUrT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

qualities. Attention is also respectfully invited to tlie faitliful and intelligent 
services of the clerks and messengers accompanying tliis t(nTr — Messrs. Dickens, 
Parker, and Pratchett, to the camijaign in Cuba up to date, and Messrs. Kent and 
Bxinnemeyer as far as Port Tampa, Fla. The work and results show the benefit 
of their labors. 

There appears to be some difference in the effectiveness of the organization and 
knowledge of the different branches of duty when the exi^edition began and 
after Avards when it was completed, but it may have little or no utility in other 
expeditions. 

The earnestness and skill is doubtless recognized with which all that pertained 
to this exxDedition was driven and done, regardless of the cost of health or life and 
of financial loss, and with mental and physical strain to the utmost upon every 
individual, especially those in the trenches. General Shaffer seemed to perform 
six men's work, and organizations displayed a coherence and i^ower that won uni- 
versal admiration, and made every call upon the forces, fully met from squad and 
comjiany leader up, under circumstances illustrated by the successive loss of four 
brigade commanders within a half hour. 

If any recognition is to be fairly given to staff work of sucli a famous military 
expedition, attention is perhaiis doubly due the supreme labors of Col. C. F. 
Humphrey and Col. J. F. Weston, who did more work and endured more than 
many men are capable of, and they are working at a financial loss since their com- 
mutation of quarters is stopjied. And Lieut. Col. G. McC. Derby, of the engineers, 
and some of tlie medical officers, have labored in their line with unending energy 
and under difficulties and dangers rivaling past records of their corps. What man 
could do these men have done. If more men of the permanent staff corjjs, both 
those now represented and others, can by any means be spared for vv^ork immedi- 
ately with the fighting line, i^ossibly some of the discomforts and deficiencies now 
endured there will not be repeated. And may it not be submitted under the 
changed conditions (since for the present contest the control of the sea is ours) 
that the foot artillery, and jjerhai^s some other regulars, can possibly be given a 
due and needed exiierience in aggressive warfare, and form another division as 
effective as the dismounted cavalry with General Shaffer's force. Mobility is the 
first essential of an army, and it may vv^ork permanent injury to have any large 
part of the regular establishment unpracticcd now in embarkation and debarka- 
tion in the presence of the enemy. The volunteers are learning much wherever 
they are encamped, but the regulars can acquire little or nothing of value from this 
war save in the actual i^resence of the enemy. It is hoped that the most of them 
will get there. And it is a glory and safety to the American Republic that this 
is the first desire of the heart of its young men of this generation, whether organ- 
ized in the regiilar or volunteer, the temiiorary. or permanent part of our armed 
force. The complete annihilation of all opposing force siiccessively, as accom- 
plished by both the army and navy, tends to shorten and severely limit the expe- 
rience m this war. 

Among the general officers whose names I have not seen among those promoted 
who participated in this engagement, may I be permitted to mention General 
Sumner, who commanded the division of dismounted cavalry on July 1, and 
General Ludlow, who was in command of one of the brigades of General Law- 
ton's division? Their gallantry and conduct in battle seem to deserve recogni- 
tion. The soldierly action of such volunteers as Colonel Wagner, Captain Alger, 
and Captain Anderson, who were permitted to serve in the front and render such 
service as only resolute and zealous and accomplished officers can perform, also 
deserves to be specially noted. 

If consonant with our national policy, it may be easy to establish a dominating 
tie among the leading spirits of the island population, and aid, if not furnish, a 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 329 

career for some of tliem in the present transition state of things, if places were 
oi)en to them in the army, either regular or volunteer. 

Always throughont his career good judges seem to have recognized that in 
every exigency of campaign and battle Lawton was cax^able of adequately per- 
forming more than was ever assigned to liim, though some of the severest military 
tasks and duties have been performed by him. This judgment still stands well 
established, thcnigh the command of a division of regiilars and the front and 
swinging right wing of an invading and assaulting army has lieen intrusted con- 
fidently to liis command. The reserve force and quiet self-control with which 
every step in action was conducted equaled his proverbial energy, endurance, 
courage, and tenacity. And it is believed his immediate commander (General 
Shafter), whose force and energy are also phenomenal, api>reciates the soldierly 
qualities of his loyal subordinate fiilly, as on his recommendation promotion has 
been given for conduct on the field of battle; but as an eyewitness, this testimony 
to well-proven military merit may be also permitted to the Inspector-General of 
the Army. 

Of course his immediate superiors, both in advance of and since the Santiago 
expedition, have carefully determined the military and personal qualities of the 
commanding officer of this expedition; but if permitted me, it seems due that I 
should bear willing testimony to the remarkable energy, decision, and self-reliance 
which characterized General Shaffer's course during this distinguished military 
adventure throughout its arduoiTS course to its most honorable conclusion. At 
every stage of this proceeding General Shafter was the dominant spirit at the 
scene of action. 

Oppressed with sickness and overweighted with responsibilities and care, he 
carried the fate of his army to a successful and glorious issue. And any prec- 
edent is rare where, amidst siTch natural obstacles and dangers and limited 
means and opposing defenses, a more numerous, well disciplined, and gallant 
force capitulated to invaders who had upon their fighting line a smaller force 
than that surrendered. The glory of this belongs to General Shafter and his 
army and the Administration sustaining it. And whatever influence was felt 
from this army toward the driving out and destruction of the Spanish fleet may 
also go to its credit, 

How earnestly I have been impelled to seek service in face of this enemy of my 
country, regardless of all lesser considerations, is of course appreciated by my 
superiors. Up to the limit of my powers I crave to render such service as may 
be possible. Perhaps I should justly recognize that all others, with proper 
soldierly instinct, ardently press to the front also and may deserve higher consid- 
eration. But permit mt\ at this close of my long diity as Inspector-General of the 
Army, to solicit such active service, and, if possible, command, in the face of the 
enemy as the kindly consideration of my superiors and their regard for others and 
the needs of the i)ublic service may be able to accord. 

Respectfully submitted, in compliance with the instructions from the Adjutant- 
General's Office of May 17, 1898. 

Very respectfully, 

J. C. Breckinridge, 

Major-Oeneral of Volunteers, Inspector-General, U. S. A. 



War Department. Inspector-General's Office, 

Washington. D. C, August S, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army. 

Sir: Pursuant to instructions contained in letter from yoiir office, dated August 
1. 1898, to proceed to New York City and obtain all the facts possible in reference 



o3() ixvp:stigation of conduct of war wrrii spain. 

to the public charges made concerning the steamships Seneca and. Condi o, trans- 
porting our sick and wounded from Santiago, I have the nonor to report: 

On arrival in NeAV York City, 7 a. m., the 2d instant, I went at once to the hos- 
pital steamer Relief, which was under orders to sail for Santiago under charge of 
Maj. G. H. Torney, surgeon, United States Army. 
Major Torney stated as follows: 

'•The R'//('/ arrived at Siboney. the base of supplies of the army of invasion of 
Cuba, on the 7th of July. We were then unable to obtain any anchorage. I 
reported my arrival to General Shaffer and told him what I was directed to do, 
and asked that the stores on the ReUef be unloaded. He isstied an order to the 
commissary who had charge of the lighter. There was only one lighter in the 
harbor, and no other means of unloading anj-thing. He issued an order to Colo- 
nel Weston that one load of the lighter should be given to me. It was not prac- 
ticable to anchor that day. We did not get at anchor the next day because the 
transports crowded in there and took all the room. I then got an order next 
morning from Colonel Humphrey to give me an anchorage, which was accom- 
plished after many hours of labor. In trjing to do this the ship lost an anchor 
and lost a windlass and was partially disabled, so that we did not get into an 
anchorage until the 9th. On the 10th or 11th, I forget which. General Miles 
arrived. The wounded in the meantime began to be sent aboard the Belief fi-om 
the camp. The camp was overcrowded. I received everybody that was sent 
aboard. Some v^'ere severely and some slightly wounded. Those severely 
wounded were separated from the others, so as to give the severely wounded the 
the most attention. Some of them were sick with fever. 

" On the 11th General Miles an-ived. After going ashore the chief surgeon. Dr. 
Greenleaf , investigated matters there, and on coming back to the ship (the hag- 
gling about the surrender having continued) an order was issued to me by the 
chief sui-geon to prepare to receive the wounded of the army. The hospital on 
the shore was ordered abandoned; no more wounded were to be sent there, but 
were to be sent to the Relief. Major La Garde had charge of the wounded 
on shore. He had orders to send me the wounded on shore, and his hospital was 
ordered abandoned as the surgical hospital and to be converted into a hospital 
for the sick. On the same day, or the day after, while the dispute in regard to 
the surrender occurred, the information was transmitted to me liy Dr. Greenleaf, 
upon wliich I was requii-ed to act, that if the Spaniards did not surrender the 
harbor was to be forced by the Navy, and an assault was to be made on the 
Spanish lines, and that I was to be prepared to receive the wounded from the 
front and take care of them. In order to do that I was directed to transfer as 
many of the slight cases as were deemed practicable to any transport. 

'■ The Senecd was hdng right opposite me. I sawthe surgeon of the Seneca, Dr. 
Hides , and he told me he could take forty-five patients. In the meantime the Solace 
came in. and I turned some of the wounded over to the Seneca. These were cases 
of a mild character. I made preparations for this work, and we weeded out the 
cases which we did not think of any importance, and orders were given to transfer 
these to the Seneca. The medical offtcer of the Seneca then submitted a list of 
the articles retjuired, and I directed the steward to issue them. It was ;i small 
list, and I told him that I would give him everything he wanted. It was impos- 
sible at that time to break out our stores, for the storerooms weri' jammed to the 
doors with supplies for the army in Cuba. The medical officer on 'the Seneca got 
all the supplies he asked for except instruments which ^ve couldn't well give him. 
We transferred to him actually forty-two patients. We gave him what ice we 
could. We were shipping ice to the fever hospital on shore, where it As-as directed 
to send all ice. 
'* Nothing liad been said to me about the drinking water on the Seneca. These 



INSPECTION REl'ORTS. 331 

patients were transferred practically at sea. Just before this occurred the Seneca 
drifted down on tiie ship and drove ns out of onr anchorage. She drifted down 
on us when she had itp steam and could have gotten out of our way. None of 
these patients were severely ill except two, who had to ])e carried on stretchers. 
The filling up afterwards of the Seneca with patients was a matter over whicli I 
had no control. I had nothing to tl(j with that. 

"Dr. Hicks came down on the Relief. Indirectly he was a passenger on the 
Relief. He reported to General Shatter. He was not under my orders at all at 
any time. He was under the orders of the general of the invading army, under 
Colonel Pope. I knew nothing at all of the condition of the Seneca. She was not 
under my control in any respect whatever. I do not know whether any report had 
been made as to her condition or supplies. The medical officer came and asked for 
supijlies, and I gave him what he asked for. Somebody made a statement in regard 
to the clothing. When these patients came to the Relief, they were lousy and dirty 
and filthy, and their clothing was in siich bad condition that it had to be disinfected. 
They were then g-iven clean underclothes from our ship before they were trans- 
ferred. It was impossible for us to unload our storerooms at sea and we could not 
issue them any other clothing. It was absohitely impossible. In the matter of 
ice, of course it was not possible to give them all they wanted. We issued it to the 
fever patients on shore, but any surplus ice was sent to them. Some of it was not 
fully frozen. It would have taken an ice machine of 100 tons to supiily the camp, 
and ours was only two. I had no control over the Seneca at all. I do not know 
whether she had been reported on or ins])ected by any medical officer. I had noth- 
ing to do with it. I transferred patients to the Hudson and patients to the Solace. 
I sinijily obeyed orders. Tlie order of Dr. Greenleaf was positive, and in carrying 
out these instructions I only obeyed orders. There is no qiiestion about that. Dr. 
Hicks did not ask for any other delicacies than ice. He had no fund that I know of 
for the purchase of delicacies. He was not recpiired to report to me at all. I had 
no control over him. I would like it understood that I have no control over the 
transi^rts. I transferred the sick and wounded by order and had charge of them 
until they reached the side of the Seneca. Then my responsibility for them ended. 

" The articles of medical stores were given freely to the medical officer of the 
Seneca without being invoiced. Whatever he asked for was given him." 

(Note. — See letter from the Surgeon-General's Office of June 37, 1898, to Maj. 
George H. Torney, inclosiire A, Also letter of June 22, 1898, from the same office, 
to Major Torney, approved by the Secretary of War, inclosure B.) 

At Belleview Hospital I found Lieut. C. L. Byi-am, First United States Cavalry, 
and Lieut. L. H. Gross, Sixth Infantry. 

Lieutenant Byram said: 

'• I was present when Dr. La Garde informed Dr. Hicks that he was to go North 
on the Seneca. In substance, Dr. La Garde told him that he would send only 
men who were not seriously injured, and who were able to take care of them- 
selves, for the reason that he woiild be utterly unable to give him any h(jspital 
men or stores. At this time I was suffering somewhat from malaria, and had 
not fully recovered from my wound, so I was directed by Dr. La Garde to take 
passage on the Seneca. I was i^erfectly aV)le, however, when I went on board to 
take care of myself. Dr. La Garde told Dr. Hicks that he thought he would send 
him about 4o men. Of my own knowledge, I do not know how many men were 
placed aboard the ship, but have understood that there were between 90 and 100. 
These, as I was told and observed myself, were made up of the men above 
referred to as having been sent from the shore hospital under Dr. La Garde's con- 
trol, several officers and a inimber of men wlio were sent from the Relief, some 
of whom were not in a condition to help themselves, and a number of foreign 



332 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

attaches, newspaper men, and civilian employees. These latter, I nnderstand, 
were sent aboard by the quartermaster. There was another doctor aboard the 
vessel, and it appeared that he was placed in charge. The day after going aboard 
the vessel I was taken with a very severe attack of measles, which prevented my 
going about the boat to any extent at all, except from my cabin to the water- 
closet. Dr. Bird was seasick most of the time, and all of the work fell upon Dr. 
Hicks. There seemed to be a lack of medicines. The only thing he was able to 
give me was some troches for a very severe cough. There was an almost absolute 
lack of everything that a sick man could eat, with the exception of some beef 
extract, from which beef tea could be made, and some malted milk. There were 
a number of men who seemed to require a great deal of attention, and seemed to 
be i^retty sick. Unqiiestionably the only thing in the way of nourishment that 
could be supplied me was beef tea, which, through the kindness of Miss Jennings, 
I was supplied with aboiit one-fourth of the number of times per day that the 
doctor insisted on my having it. The reason it was not given me oftener was due 
to the absolute lack of help the doctor had to contend against, excei^t svich help 
that was vohintarily rendered by Miss Jennings and Captain Dowdy, retired. 

" The water supply aboard the vessel was beyond description. It stunk and 
was filled with something that looked to me like iron rust, but which I was told 
was rotten wood, and was (if such a character that I absolutely could not drink 
it. There was a little ice on board, which lasted for about two days. 

•'As to who sent the men there, other than those who were able to heli) them- 
selves aboard the vessel, I have no knowledge. In passing to the water-closet I 
had to go to a deck below the one on which the cabins are on, and found a num- 
ber of men, seemingly apparently helpless, occupying the hallway between the 
cabins on that deck. I saw on one or two occasions the meals that were furnished 
these men, and on no occasion did they consist of anything other than the articles 
of the ration, with the one exception of the malted milk and beef tea, that were pre- 
pared from supplies that were furnished from the Red Cross shij) State of Texas. 

" So far as I could observe. Dr. Hicks did everything that a man could do under 
such adverse circumstances for the relief of the sick and wounded. I know that 
he was up and about the vessel at all times of the night and day, and from the 
number of times that I saw him passing the windows of the cabin I know of his 
l)eing about at night, and I couldn't see how the man got any sleep at all. Some 
of the men were placed in the bunks built into the transport for the transporta- 
tion of the soldiers to Cuba. These men had no mattress, and were either sick 
witii fever or wounded, and must have been siiffering intensely."' 

And Lieutenant Gross stated: 

" Personally, I did not suffer any at all on the trip, because I was able to get 
around. The officers took their meals from the ship's mess, and they were very 
satisfactory, considering the circumstances; but I noticed that hardly any provi- 
sion whatever was made for the messing of the men. There were no hospital 
attendants on board at all, and men that were Avorking their passage home were 
detailed to look out for the wounded. If it hadn't been for the assistance of Miss 
Jennings, they would have suffered much more. There were a large number of 
newspaper correspondents and attaches aboard who had staterooms, and these 
caused a number of our men to be placed right on the decks with nothing but 
blankets and mattresses. The doctors seemed to do all they could, but seemed to 
lack experience. The water supply of the ship was bad, and the ice ran out in 
two days." 

Dr. A. H. Doty, health officer. State of New York, whom I found at the quar- 
antine station, Staten Island, stated as follows: 

" The Seneca had evidently not been inspected with a view to the sanitary con- 
dition of the sick and wounded wlien she left Cuba. I can give you an instance. 
There were men on the boat that, if the statements made to me were true, were 



INSPECTION KEPOKTS. 333 

taken from the battlefield and carried right along to that point in a nightshirt. 
The nightshirt was filthy dirty, and covered soldiers who were siifltering from 
wounds. The wotinds had never been dressed, for the reason there were no instru- 
ments on the boat. The wounded arrived in that condition, with absolutely no 
treatment at all. Some of the wounds were suppurating. I asked the doctor 
why the wounds had not been di'es.sed, and he said, ' We had no instruments or 
medicines.' I did not go into why they did not have them. 

"The sanitary condition is under the care of a medical ofiicer always. The 
captain is responsible in a general way. In this case the people were crawling 
over each other. I spoke to the doctors in regard to one or two who were suffer- 
ing from diarrhea, and asked him why he did not give them a little morphine. He 
said he had none on board, and that meant that those men had to go a week without 
medicine, suffering excruciating jiains. When the sick reached here, I took their 
night clothes off of them and washed them and cleaned theui and put on new night 
shirts, and then sent tip to the commissioner of public charities, Mr. Keller, and 
asked him if he couldn't take 30 of them who were so badly wounded. There was 
much less danger in putting them there in a ward by themselves than to keep 
them down here where they ran the risk of djdng. We sent them up there. 

" Some of the Seneca li sick and wounded went to Belleview. I took a number 
of them to Swinburne Island, and some to Hoffman Island, where they were 
gradually disinfected and allowed to go. 

•■ The ConcJio is just about as bad as the Sen,eca. There is no official surgeon on 
the Concho. I know nothing about the claim that on the Seneca there was no ice 
and that the water was bad; that the captain had not had an opportunity to fit 
out his ship with new supplies. On the Conclio there was a lack of physicians, 
who are not only a comfort but a necessity. They should never have been allowed 
to leave without at least two surgeons, and it afterwards x^roved there were several 
fatal cases, and they were buried at sea off Fort Monroe. Dr. Lesser, who repre- 
sents the Red Cross, was on the Concho, and did the best he coiild, but still they 
were suffering for help. It seems to me a very imusiial thing to ship that numbe^ 
of wounded and sick men for that distance without a physician and proper med- 
ical supplies, going, as they knew it did, from a place Avhere they were all subject 
to malarial fever. They were brought on boai'd half sick. Dr. Senn was here 
also, and he was firmly impressed with the fact that the trouble was at the other 
end, not on the Medical Dei)artment simply; that the headquarters wouldn't give 
them anything. The idea seemed to be to push these people aboard — to get them 
out as soon as possible. Dr. Senn is a very observant man. too. 

'• That does seem to be the explanation of it. The very fact of their being put 
on board without having sufficient medical siipplies and no doctor sent with them. 
I think the Seneca was the only vessel that has come up so far that had medical 
ofi&cers on her, and they were both contract surgeons. I believe one of them only 
came on board by accident. There was nothing done systematically. It woiild 
look to me that way. as though those transports were there and orders were given 
to put these people on board and get them away. Dr. Sternberg is a very careful 
man. 

" So far as I know there is no yellow fever on the Concho. If there had been a 
surgeon on board he would have kept a history of the cases and records of the 
temperature, and all I woiTld have to have done would have been to have coiTob- 
orated those cases. The result was they were dumped upon me, and I had to 
examine every case and group them. I told Dr. Sternberg I would do everything 
I could to help him out. A surgeon on board these transports would have been 
of great value here. It is evident there are two things needed: First, a vessel 
should be inspected in regard to its supplies; second, a medical officer should 
accompany the vessel. 



l\Si INVKS'IICATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

'• The peoiile wliom I took to Swinburne Island were almost starved to death. 
They almost took the food away from each other. A first lieutenant of regular 
troops (Lieutenant Cole), who had dysentery, had no delicacies, and could not get 
his baggage. The Red Cross have been exceedingly nice, sending supplies, under- 
clothes, etc. The principal part of the newspaper talk and discussion is frimi 
newspaper reporters who have gotten on board and come up here. I think it is a 
great mistake. There is no department that can go through an emergency of that 
kind withoiit having some little detail improved. The Seneca was overloaded; 
the ConcJto was not. If the Seneca had been simply a passenger ship, I should say 
it was overloaded for that class of steamer. A sick man has got to have a great 
deal more fresh air than a well man. 

•• The steamship company has been feeding these men, and that is a comidaint 
a number of men make. A man with a temperature of 103" or 104", and hardly 
able to sit up, was given j)ork and regular rations. They could not eat it, and the 
result was that the men would go for a week withoiit any nourishment. A young 
man named Holly was sunstruck on the 5th of July. He came uj) on the Leona. 
Nothing was done for him. He was taken into a hospital and afterwards put on 
board and carried into one of the outside cabins. The statement is made that he 
laid there on the floor during the whole trip withoiit any proper diet or stimu- 
lants. He died of exhaustion. If they had had a surgeon on board the boat this 
patient would have received proper treatment and woiild probably have lived. 

' • I think the whole explanation of it seems to be there were no physicians and 
no preparations made. That is the way it strikes me. The surgeons who come 
up state that there "were no prei^arations; they were greatly overworked, and 
could not do any' more. It seems a great oversight to send a ship away with a 
great number of sick men and no one to take care of them. The officers whom I 
heard talk summed it tip in this way: Here was this fight going on and they did 
not have any more men than they needed. Everything was done toward getting 
everything to the front to avoid faihire. 

" There are about 33 sick on the Concho now. I want to get them out of the 
ship so as to disinfect it. I will take them off this afternoon if possible. From 
a conversation with some of the officers who came uj) it seems that an emergency 
existed there, as they expected another battle, and the desire was to get the sick 
and wounded off on the boats as soon as possible. They had to keep the medical 
officers there, as they were needed at the front. 

•' The Seneca arrived July 20, 1898, with 90 soldiers and 48 passengers, and the 
Concho on July 31 with 191 soldiers and passengers and 40 crew."' 

Dr. Lesser, of the Red Cross Society, made the following statement: 

"I was present as a passenger on the steamship Concho on its last sailing from 
Santiago to the United States. Major La Garde received a dispatch from General 
Sliafter on July 21 to send on the ^IZctmo 50 or 60 soldiers and place on the Concho 
175 convalescents; also supplyit with 1,000 rations. On the 23d the Concho came 
from Santiago and reported at 6 o'clock in the morning. 

''Previous to sailing, I was stationed at Siboney, representing the Red Cross 
Society. We had a large number of convalescent typhoids, so-called recovered 
yellow-fever patients, a number of malarial fever patients, and I think that was 
about all, except a few cases of typhoid fever. I will state that the same dispatch 
stated that others were sent down from the front, and the same evening a wagon 
load of 15 more patients came to the major on the Concho, who consented to 
maki' room for them. In the morning we mustered out a number of men that 
came from the yellow-fever camp. Major La Garde, Dr. Ireland, and myself 
mustered out the men and said, ' You go.' The dispatch also said, ' Send the well 
ones to the front.' Another number he kei)t back. Some of them could walk; 



, INSPECTION' UEI*OK'!\S. 335 

some of tlieni could not. Those that conld walk he sent down to the ship. I saw 
personally on board a nnanber of men that were put back not to go on the ship, 
and to my great surprise I f(nand a larger number than I expected, and wrote to 
the major, • This ship is not in good enough condition to take 175. The Santiago 
comes to-morrow. Do not send any more than you can help.' I received no 
answer, and felt that my letter did not get to the major. Hov/ever, my patients- 
only very bad patients— were brought then, and in a number sufficient for me to 
attend to them. 

" The assignment to duty on the ship was given me on July 29 by Major La 
Garde to work in the medical department of the Army. We in the Red Cross are 
not an independent institution, and are going only on the orders of the Army. I 
offered my services to the major to take these people home — those who were sick. 
Those who were suffering with yellow fever had the intermittent stage. They 
had no fever. They looked well and were weak, and so the major sent them, 
believing that we would have no trouble with them. So I would only have had 
about 25, all convalescent from yellow fever. Further, the men who were told to 
stay back also went on the ship. The guard did not keep them back. 

'•The officers, who were apparently well, 18 in number, also I believed would 
be no trouble to us. We started feeling perfectly at ease, but a number of men 
developed chills during the afternoon. Whether they had them before or not I 
could not find out. Their desire to go back was so great they would not tell what 
they had had. They ate the rations, and the following day everybody on the ship 
was sick. They had previously been living on hospital diet. There was a supply 
of delicacies and medicines on the ship sufficient for 20 or 25; all we supposed 
woiild be ill. We received the drugs which were offered by the War Department, 
but very little delicacies. We received a few lemons and about 5 or 6 cans of 
beef tea, 4 packages of oatmeal, 2 packages of tea, 2 small boxes of antipyrine, 
about a 4-ounce bottle filled with quinine (3-grainpills), a pound of sulphvir, about 
one-half pound of camphor (both of which I recpiested) , and that was all. I had 
a little medicine case with me, my own Red-Cross case, and of course mostly used 
up. On the second day, Sunday, every one on the ship had fever. We had no 
ice: we had no water but what was three months old. The ship was responsible 
for this fault. The condition of the water was very bad. It was water that was 
taken from somewhere around Jamaica, and it was three months old. They had 
a good deal of it. peculiarly alkaline in taste. It was not boiled by the ship. I 
begged of them to boil it. It was Ijoiled for the serious cases. Six deaths in 175 
cases of that kind is an awfully small mortality. There is really no one to blame. 
Shaffer did not know how sick they were. Major La Gavde did not know that all 
the men sent had gone there. We had no seasickness at all. We were a little 
over a week coming up. Five men died on that trip. One man died of acute 
tuberculosis. Three died from eating the rations. Most of the men have gone 
on one of these quarantine islands. None of the officers are down at Belle vue. 
There is one officer down at the Astor House— Chaplain Groves. There is one at 
the Murray Hill Hotel— Captain Young, Seventh Infantry, 

" I was there when the Seneca sailed, but had not seen the Seneca at all. The 
vessels came from Santiago, and we had a right to believe, coming from a seaport 
where we have seen oxen and ice and everything, that she would have been sup- 
plied with what was needed. We did inspect the Concho, and I wrote to Major 
La Garde and said we had room for only about GO. The ice lasted for only about 
twenty-four hours. They might have been ordered to Santiago to buy ice. The 
steamship companies give nothing to the private and nothing to the officer, and 
everything had to be bought. They were not obliged to put on board a supply of ice. 

" The principal troubles with those 25 now sick on the Concho are diarrhea and 
typhoid cases. If some of those men who came up here did not have yellow fever, 



33G IXVEsriCATlON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

then none of the Spanish in Cuba have had it. About the second week the yellow 
fever developed. We got ice and new water from Fort Monroe. "We had a large 
number of cases of sick on the ship and now we have only about 3.5."' 

Mr. Samuel McMillan, of Morris Heights, New York City, made this statement: 

" The state of facts as I saw them were as follows: 

•'After boarding the Concho and learning that there were to be a niTinber of 
wounded and convalescent soldiers to be taken on board at Siboney, I was very 
reluctant to accept a cabin or berth on the same. In fact, I was reluctant 
because in the first place I thought I was exposing myself to disease and possible 
death, which I had no right to do because of my family. Biit there was no other 
way of escape. I had to face it. Had there been any way of escape which means 
or money could have purchased I certainly woiild not have placed myself in that 
position. But yet I braced myself up to it, and said it may be possible that I may 
be of some use. I may be able to say a- consoling or an encouraging word to 
some of those poor fellow-countrymen of mine who have suffered for the cause 
that our country ^vishes to vindicate. I was informed that there would be some 
16 to 20 taken on board, but to my surprise there were something like ICO conva- 
lescents, and some that I thought were not convalescents, landed upon the ship. 
I want to say right here that great credit should be given to the shijj's crew, who, 
with untiring effort and no grumbling of any name or nature, paddled back those 
boats to and fro for over nine hours landing those poor boys on the vessel. There 
was no invalid or laospital corps to do that work. That was the first violation of 
the great duty that we owed to our boys that came to my view. I was willing to 
even overlook that neglect or blunder, thinking that perhaps the anxious desire 
of those poor boys and sufferers overruled them, and that they may have forced 
themselves upon the officers, willing to put up Math any treatment for the sake 
of getting home or of getting to some port or some haven where they would get 
skillful treatment. After that work v.^as performed, and perfonned well, as I 
have already stated, I looked around and took notice of what accommodations 
had been provided for them. I found myself enjoying a cabin, which I felt I 
had no right to do while others suffering from wounds and disease were without 
such accommodations. I tlien and there made up my mind that I would sur- 
render mine to some poor suffering boy on the ship. Before that I had no 
knowledge but that every store, every possible contingency or want that these 
poor boys needed as sufferers, had been well thought out and well provided for, 
and only then, to my great surprise, I learned from Dr. Lesser that the same had 
not been done. I then felt an indignation that should possess every American 
heart, that some one had blundered, and later on learned of the suffering which 
only Dr. Lesser can describe, he being a professional man. Others may guess 
at it and may give their views, but the burden of this should rest upon him 
and his staff of sisters, and the evidence that should be potent, and sliould have 
weight before you, should be taken from him and his nurses. Were it not for the 
kindly offices that they gave with sucb a will, and with such a telling purpose, 
no one knows what would have been the fatality among us. Death occurred, 
of which Dr. Lesser can furnish you the day and date. That death remained 
among us is an evidence of some one's carelessness, and even when we reached a 
harbor where the bodies could have been buried beneath the soil for which they 
had fought and had been willing to give up their lives, they were denied burial 
in the same. You, gentlemen, who can well consider how any true American 
can feel under such circumstances, can well appreciate what my feelings were. 
Did not the science of American invention provide a sealed coffin? Was tliere 
not a place on our fair land and soil broad enough to bury themV If not, there 
would have been some excuse for taking them out to sea. But that was a relief, 
and a relief that only those who heard tlie news that the captain was ordered to 



INSPECTION KEPORTS. 337 

take them oiit to sea to Iniiy theui in a watery grave can fully appreciate, because 
of the fact that they had been with us for about thirty-eight hours— for the exact 
hours I would refer you to Dr. Lesser "s notes. The evidence of their death, and 
that they remained among us without proper disinfectants or ice, or any fore- 
thought for a like condition of affairs, must certainly send a chill through every 
sufferer who looked at the same or knew of the same. That condition of affairs 
to a sick and sensitive body, who had every reason to expect that there was no 
possibility of the same occurring, and who had every right to expect the best 
! because of the wealth and resources of our great country, can only be expressed 
by the language of a poor boy who said, ' God help them when they want any more 
volunteers.' If the Government can shirk the responsibility for this neglect, they 
can shirk the responsibility of placing a man before the enemy wnthout a gun." 
'• I was present when Dr. Lesser asked for boiled water for his patients and it was 
refused. I offered $500 of my own personal funds to ameliorate the condition of 
any of the wounded or sick on the Concho, and I told Dr. Lesser that he need not 
stop at that, and that I would give him my check for §3,000 if needed. He then 
said that we must have some action in this matter, and if there is no military head 
to bear this burden the captain must. The newspaper notoriety given to this 
transport business is ^vithol^t foundation of fact, and these gentlemen have been 
misquoted."' 

In the hospital at Fort Wadsworth I found Capt. H. T. Allen, Second Artillery, 
who made the following statement: 

"The Concho was not any worse than the whole oiTtfit where the Medical 
Department was concerned. I know that the Medical Department has not the 
attendants, the order, the system of supply, or anything. The Concho is bad. 

•• The vessel should have been inspected, of course. The trouble seems to be a 
lack of everything. I was at Siboney for an hoiir and a quarter before they gave 
me a tent. I do not know how many men are there now. I maintain that all 
those fever patients ought to have something to keep the fever from their heads. 
The condition was just simply congestion from top to bottom. It was an absolute 
state of unjireparedness. 

" Captain Young, Seventh Infantry, and Anderson, of the Thirty-third Michi- 
gan, were on that boat besides myself. There was no special complaint on the 
part of the officers and men on the vessels as to their condition. They did not 
think the Concho was what they had been accustomed to. It was not as good as 
general hospital life. The lack of material and attention down below there was 
quite as bad as it was aboard ship. 

••All the water w;is boiled and put up in little jugs wrapped in wet cloths to cool 
it oft*. Siboney ought to be looked into. Anybody will die there. They have 
! absolutely no delicacies. It is one of the blackest holes in our Santiago campaign. 
t and there were a great many black ones. 

i "I do not know that the Concho was overcrowded. There were about 190 on 

j board. Dr. Lesser was a Red Cross physician. He was the salvation of the sick. 

j His work deserves great credit. Lesser has got the fever business down pat. I 

I have had both yellow and typhoid fever. Had the yellow fever on the 16th, and 

it turned into tji)hoid. I do not know what the fare on board the boat was for 

these men. nor do I know anything about how the officers were fed. I was too ill." 

(Attention is invited to the inclosed reprn't concerning the Seneca, made to the 

Surgeon-General by Dr. N. G. Bird, acting assistant surgeon, under date of July 

28. 1898. marked --C.") 

In view of the statements and testimony submitted, it appears that the public 
charges made concerning the Scuecd and Concho, though in some respects exag- 
gerated, are not without just foundation, and the conditions at Siboney are assign- 
able in a gi-eat measiire as the cause. These conditions summed up: The great 
difficalty in landing and loading men and supplies, owing to the primitive and 
7833 — \UL. 1 -J 



33H INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

limitecl means at hand; the strong desire of sick and wounded men to return to 
the United States, in some cases eluding the vigilance of the medical officers at 
Siboney and getting on the vessels without authority; the great number of casual- 
ties from battle and the extraordinarily large sick list, beyond provisions made 
and oven contemi)lated; the necessity of the in'esence of the entire medical staff 
to alleviate and care for the numl^er still in the hospitals there, and the antici- 
pated greater increase of casualties from an expected battle, thus re(iuiring, too, 
almost all available medical supi^lies, and especially delicacies and ice, for the 
fever-stricken on shore, and this, aggravated by the severe climatic influences, 
the incessant heat from a tropical sun and daily i)oiiring rains, with a greatly con- 
gested condition at Siboney of sick and wounded, added to increase the discomforts. 

To the Medical Department falls the princiiial burden in these trying emergen- 
cies, and that it has been sorely taxed goes beyond questioning. It is not doubted, 
however, that its officers have done all in their power, and have worked ener- 
getically in the fulfillment of their great responsible duty. Such extraordinary 
casualties could hardly have been foreseen, and that it has not been able in every 
emergency to meet the requirements should not be made in the light of a reflec- 
tion. It is evident that human power has been taxed to its utmost, and the great 
amount of good done should be considered also with any existing discrepancy. 
War necessarily brings with it great suffering and privation, and the delicacies 
and treatment of the sick can not always be had in the field as in a regular hospital. 

It appears that after the arrival of the hospital steamer Belief at Siboney, in 
view of a ijossible assault on the Spanish lines, Maj. G. H. Torney, surgeon U. S. 
Army, in charge of the Relief, was directed by the chief surgeon. Dr. Greenleaf, 
to be prepared to receive the wounded from the front, and to transfer as many 
of the slight cases as were deemed practicable to any transport. The transport 
Seneca, in charge of Dr. Hicks, an acting assistant surgeon, was lying "right 
opposite," and was selected apparently without any inspection as to her capacity, 
stores, supplies, or hygienic condition. 

Undoubtedly Dr. Torney was authorized by the letter from the Surgeon-General 
of June 27, 1898, to send sick and wounded soldiers home by army transports, but 
it can hardly be claimed tliat in the exercise of that authority he was not to use 
care and discretion, having always in view the comfort of his patients. 

Dr. Hicks reported he could take 45 patients, but it appears the vessel arrived 
with 90 soldiers and 48 passengers. The inadequate siipply of medicines on board 
seemed to be due to the inexperience of the contract surgeon in charge. The 
small quantity of medicines and delicacies furnished Dr. Hicks included all that 
he asked for, except surgical instruments, but proved entirely inadequate for the 
mimber of sick and wounded soldiers on board. It appears that a large number 
of these soldiers were just convalescing from fever, and in no condition to subsist 
on the army ration. Yet, with these facts known to the medical authorities, 
possibly an effort should have been made to provide a proper diet for such people 
during a sea voyage. Under ordinary circumstances the liability for providing a 
ship with sufficient and wholesome food, water, aiid other necessaries for the 
comfort of its passengers rests with the master of the ship, but these enlisted 
men can not be regarded as ordinary passengers, capable of making a contract 
for passage. They were in the care and custody of the United States, and the 
Government, through its responsible officers, was bound, imder the especial 
circumstances, to see that there should be no unnecessary suffering that could 
have been avoided by the exercise of that forethought that is born from a full 
grasp of the situation. 

From the testimony, the contract surgeons on the Seneca and Dr. Lesser on the 
Concho seem to liave done all they could under the disadvantages arising from a 
lack of assistants, medicine, proper nourishment, water, ice, and bedding for the 
men placed in their care. 



INSPECTION rp:ports. 339 

Possibly the evils resulting from the overcrowding were not considered in the 
e\ndent desire to clear the hospital for the expected battle and the anxiety of the 
sick men to get en route for home, but a matter of so much importance CAndently 
calls for some directing hand. 

To prevent a repetition of the evil it is suggested that no sick or wounded men 
be placed on any transi)ort until it has been thoroughly inspected as to its sani- 
tary condition, its capacity, and its water supply, that a competent medical 
officer be placed in charge, ^^^tll a sufficient corps of assistants; that no more 
than the determined niimber of persons be allowed on board, and that an ample 
supply of medicines, instruments, bedding, clothing, dietary articles, and other 
accessories for the comfort of the sick be provided. 

Very respectfully, C. H. Heyl, 

Major, Inspector-General. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, June 27, ISOS. 
Maj. George H. Torney. 

Surgeon. U. S. A.. Commanding Hospital Ship Relief. 

Foot Ninth Street, East River, New York, N. Y. 
Sir: Your attention is invited to the following additional instructions: 
You should keep in view the fact that the Relief is a well-equipped floating 
hosijital and a depot of supplies for troops in the field. It is important, therefore, 
that she should not be taken away from the scene of active operations unless it is 
absolutely necessary for the purpose of landing the sick and wounded at a home 
port. You should avail yourself of every opportunity to send proper cases by the 
navy ambulance ship, the Solace, or by army transports returning to home ports. 
As a rule, the more serious cases of injiiry and sickness should be retained on 
yoiTr ship, as the disturbance incident to a sea voyage would be injurious to them. 
Convalescents and those sick and wounded who can be transiiorted without injury 
to themselves, and who are not likely to l)e fit f<^r. duty ^^^thin a short time, should 
be sent to a home port whenever an opportunity offers. 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg. 
Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 



War Department, Surgeon-Generals Office, 

Washington. Juli/ JJ. IS'JS. 
Maj. George H. Torney. 

Surgeon, U. S. A.. Commanding U. S. Hospital Shij) Relief. 

Army Building, ,1'.) Whitehall Street. Nen' Yoik.N. Y. 
Sir: You will do everything in your jiower to expedite the work upon the hos- 
pital ship Relief, and when she is ready for sea report to me by telegi'aph. Upon 
receiving telegraphic orders to that effect, you will proceed directly to Santiago 
de Cuba, reporting your arrival to the commanding general at that point. Your 
shii) should be anchored in a safe harbor, at such point as may be designated by 
the proper authorities and as near as possible to tlie seat of active operations. 
You will receive on board up to the full capacity of the ship the sick and wounded 
of the army and navy, and care for them exactly as if they were in a general 
hospital. The Relief is regarded as a United States general hospital, and you 'v\'ill 
be expected to make such reports and returns as are rerpiired by regulations 
for a general hospital. Your attention is especially invited to Army Regulations 
\4'-\-). and should anyone attempt to exercise unauthoriz(Hl autiiority over you or 
your shii) you will invite their attention to this regulation. When, in your judg- 



340 i.\vi:s'riGATiox of conduct of war with spain. 

ment or in tliat of the commanding general or the chief surgeon of the troops at 
whatever point you may be located, it is desirable that you should proceed to a 
home port for the purpose of landing the sick and wctinded, you will, if practi- 
cable, communicate with me by telegraph, and orders will be sent you designating 
the port for which you should sail. If it is not practi(-a])le to communicate with 
me by telegraph, you should apply to the commanding general of the troops 
for orders to proceed to such home port as may seem desirable, and immediately 
upon your arrival you should communicate with me by telegraph, in order that 
arrangements may be made to transfer the sick and wounded to a general 
hospital. 

You will issue medical suj^plies, iipon properly approved requisitions, to troops 
in the field, and will do everything in your power to aid the medical officers Avith 
these troops in providing for the comfort of the sick by the issue of ice. hospital 
stores, and such delicacies as you may have at your disposal. 

When i)racticable, you will send to me once a week a telegraphic repoi-t showing 
the number of patients of the army and of the navy on board the hospital ship. 
You should make timely requisition for necessary siipplies for use on the ship 
and for issiie to troops in the field. I .shall send you SLOOO as a hospital fund, and 
you are authorized to give to chief surgeons, or surgeons in charge of division 
hosjjitals, amounts not exceeding $100 for use in the purchase of necessary articles 
for the sick in the field hosiiitals. 

Very respectfully, Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 

AiJjjroved. 

E. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 
June 22, 1898. 



Before you sail you will report to the Siirgeou-General for specific orders as to 
destination and place of lauding the sick and wounded ui:)on your return. 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



report concerning the transport SENECA. 

Washington. D. C. July :?S. 1898. 

On the morning of Tuesday. July 13, 1898, I received an order from Major 
La Garde to go abcjird the Seneca and assume charge of the sick and woiinded 
which would be sent aboard to be taken North in that ship. On going aboard the 
Seneca I found her to be a transport, with the conveniences and inconveniences 
found on such ships. I made the best use possible of the resources on board. 
Some civilians were on board, and others came later, making in all about thirty. 
As they were referred to the captain, we had nothing to do with them. 

Some wounded men had come from the shore when I arrived. They were with- 
out personal effects, blankets, etc. We were told that there was a large quantity 
of regimental property on board belonging to troops which had come to Cuba in 
the Seneca, and which had not been removed. This property we were told we 
could use for our sick, but an officer on board was in charge of it and refused to 
let us use it. We finally received permission to use it AA-ithout opening the pack- 
ages. The men were also AA-ithout any personal equipment— knives, forks, plates, 
etc.— having lost these things. The next day I went to the Relief and secured 
necessary medical and surgical supplies. We had a quantity of gauze and band- 
ages and antiseptics, and ordinary medicines, quin. .sulph., pil. cath. co., pil. 
camph. et op., tablets, mist, glycr., phenacetin, antipyrin, magnes sulph., etc. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 341 

Dr. Torney told me that he had everything we coald possibly want, hut in the 
condition of the cargo it was impossible to get at many of thes(^ things, but that 
he let me have what we would need, in his judgment. A quantity of Armour's 
extract of beef was sent. I told him of our need of bedding, and he sent a suffi- 
cient number of blankets with the patients. I told him of our lack of table fur- 
niture, and he regretted that he could not supply us with these things. When 
the men began to come aboard they were taken care of as well as the conditions 
permitted. We were obliged to use the bimks between decks. By getting the 
passengers aforesaid to get two in a stateroom we secured the use of several state- 
rooms for the worst cases. Those we deemed best able to put up with it we kept 
in the bxmks. 

The travel rations I had gotten aboard on Tuesday afternoon. 

Miss Jennings came aboard of us and had sent to us some oatmeal and jelly, 
which were an agreeable variation from the ration. The men wh<i were able to 
help were organized into details, which attended to preparing meals and seeing 
to the Avants of the sick. The mess detail, of some six or eight men, were expected 
to attend exclusively -to that. There were four other details of six each, on duty 
for six hours at a time. After these details were in working order, I know of no 
instance in which any helpless man was neglected. At my request the mate had 
the carpenter saw a cask in two, making a tub, which our men were instructed 
to keep full of water for their use. They also had the use of the saloon tank, but 
this was of small capacity. As long as the ice lasted they had tiie benefit of it. 
When it gave out, about two days out. they, of course, had none. At Newport 
News we got on ice and water, greatly helping matters out. The ship was light 
and rolled a great deal, which was given as a reason for the drinldng water becom- 
ing much discolored. The captain told me that he had not had opportunity to 
provision his boat for two months, which accounted for the condition of the water, 
and shortage of ice and provisions, which was noticeable in the saloon table. 

We were exi^ected to take care of wounded men, of whom not one was in a bad 
surgical condition. Most of the wounds were simple pimctures; were nearly well 
when they came aboard. To some the dressings were not even adhering. Of 
course there were other lanpleasant conditions resulting from the wounds, as 
soreness, stiffness, etc. One man shot through the chest had contracted either 
pneumonia or empyema, which increased the gravity of his condition. 

Unfortunately, in addition to these cases, many cases of fever appeared among 
the wounded and passengers, which increased the difficulty of the situation. 

Owing to the uncertain exposure of many people on board, the character of the 
fever became a matter of serious consideration. 0\Anng to the absence of diag- 
nostic instuments, we hesitated to arrive at a decision. 

We left Siboney on Thursday morning. We had been ordered to Port Tampa, 
but the order was changed. On arriving at Newiwrt News the health aiithorities 
refused to express an opinion as to the character of the fever aboard, but advised 
that we proceed North. I telegraphed the Surgeon-General and received orders 
to proceed to New York and unload wounded. 

We arrived at New York on Wednesday, the 20th. and were btxirded by the 
health officer. He held the ship in quarantine, released a few immunes, sent the 
fever cases to Swinburne Island, the others to Hoffman Island, and the wounded 
requiring attention to Bellevue Hospital. I went to Hoffman Island to care for 
the men there. On Friday I was ordered to report to Washingion. I telegraphed 
my situation and was ordered to remain as long as necessary. The men at Hoff- 
man Island were removed to Fort Hamilton on Saturday, when I went to Swin- 
burne Island, where I remained till Tuesday morning. The remaining men were 
then taken to Fort Hamilton. 



342 INVKSTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Tilt' (liscouiforts of the voyage were chie to the fact that the Seneca, was not a 
hospital .ship, and lack of ice, and poor (piality of water. 
Many of the civilians on board provided their own sleeping accommodations. 
V^ery respectfully, 

N. S. Bird, 
Acting Assistant Surgeon, U. S. A, 
Snrg. Gen. G. M. Sternberg. 



1 



War Department, Inspector-Generai/s Oepice, 

Washington, September ;^U, IS'JS. 
The AssiST.\_NT Secretary op War, 

Washingion, I). C. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that I made the inspection of the general hospital 
at Fort Myer, Va. , as directed, and found it to consist of 23 wards, with a capacity 
of 544 patients. At present there are 260 patients there. I found the wards, bath- 
rooms, closets, kitchens, kitchen ntensils, storerooms, mess rooms, and furniture 
to be in good condition. 

There have been 80 deaths there since August il, 1898, 27 of these dying from 
typhoid fever. The police was very good, also the diet. There are 40 female 
nurses, 12 contract male nurses, and 10 men of the hospital corps on this duty. I 
found Mrs. Dr. Greene there, biit not Dr. Booth, he being absent. 

As to the amount of funds accriiing from General Orders No. IIG, Adjutant- 
General's Office, 1898, the post surgeon informed me that $2,700 had been sup- 
plied by the Subsistence Department, all of which, except $20.38, had been used in 
payment of the August bills. He could not tell me the amount that would be used 
in September, as the bills had not yet been presented for this month. He stated 
that he was purchasing everything which in his judgment was necessary for the 
sick; that all delicacies and all other articles of food which they could possibly 
vise were being purchased for them. He was devoting a large part of this fund 
for the diet kitchen, and had assumed the payment of the bills conti'acted there 
to the extent of the amount of the funds. Four of the nurses had contracted 
fever. In regard to the attendants being careless in disposing of the excrement 
of the patients, only two cases were mentioned, these being exceptions and not 
likely to occur again, as instructions from the surgeon when carried out will pre- 
vent this. If the dishes tised by the nurses were washed in the kitchen where 
those used by the typhoid patients were washed, this was an exception and in vio- 
lation of the orders of the post surgeon. The post surgeon informed me that the 
large kitchen, which is not used, was reserved by him for the use of the convales- 
cents from the riding-hall hospital in case more patients were received, and Fort 
Myer was to be retained as a general hospital for typhoid cases. 

In conclusion, I will say that I am convinced that a lack of harmony exists 
between the medical department at the post and the Red Cross persons there, 
although both are working to the same purpose— the proper treatment of the sick. 
I think some of the friction would be removed if the large unoccupied kitchen and 
adjoining dining room were given to the Red Cross nurses for their use and a 
proper amount of dishes be purchased for them of a different pattern from those 
in use by the medical department, but of the same quality and value. I respect- 
fully recommend that tliis be done. 

Respectfully submitted. 

Thos. T. Knox, 
Major, Insjjector-General. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



343 



Headquarters Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, 

Tampa, Fla.. July S. 1898. 
Assistant Adjutant-General, 

Second Dhnfiion, Fourth Army Corps, Tampa, Fla. 
Sir: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with the verbal order of the 
division commander. I have to-day inspected at their camp the Eleventh United 
States Infantry. There were eleven companies present, the other company (B) 
being detached as headqiiarter's guard at division headquarters. The absentees 
were classed as follows: 

Sick, 33; fatigue, 39; guard, 40; confinement, 8; absent without leave, 1: com- 
pany cooks, 11; noncommissioned officers in charge of quarters, 11. 

The condition of the regiment is very good. Arms are in good order, and ord- 
nance equipment is complete and good, save some rather poor canteens. 

The regiment is supplied with clothing, save leggings for the last-received 
recruits. 

The companies are short some ponchos, but these are in the hands of the regi- 
mental quartermaster ready for isstie. 

The condition of the camp is very good; police excellent. 
Sinks well attended to and clean, no odor perceptible. 

Company kitchens clean; food well served, and enough of it. The companies 
are living very well. I should say; to-day's dinner was good in every company. 
The regiment is ready to take the field. 

Very respectfully, S. C. Mills, 

Major, Inspector-Oeneral, Second Division, Fourth Army Corps. 



Inspector-General's Office, 
Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, 

Tampa, Fla., July 11, ISDS. 
Assistant Adjutant-General, 

Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, Tampa, Fla. 
Sir: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with the verbal orders of the 
division commander, I inspected the Nineteenth United States Infantry on Jiily 9. 
The camp is properly arranged, clean, and well policed. 

Sinks are in good condition, pits are well cared for and screened. No odors 
were ijerceptible. 
The company kitchens are in very fine condition, and the companies live well. 
The regiment is properly equiped with ordnance and ammunition stores, and has 
the necessary quartermaster equipment. Clothing is complete, save a few pairs 
of leggings for lately arrived recruits. 

The absentees from inspection, in addition to company cooks and noncommis- 
sioned officers in charge of quarters, were: Sick, 40: guard. 58: in confinement, 2; 
detached service, 37. 
The regiment is in very fine condition, and is ready to take the field. 
Very respectfully, 

S. C. Mills, Major. Inspector-General. 



Headquarters Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, 

Inspector-General's Office, 

Tampa. Fla.. July 15, 1898. 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Second. Division, Fourth Army Corps. 
Sir: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with the verbal order of the 
division commander, I have inspected the One hundred and fifty-seventh Indiana 



344 INVESTKiATTOX OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

Infantry. United States Vohinteers. The inspection was liy single companies 
parailed in tlieir company streets in heavy-marching order. I was accompanied 
by the colonel of the regiment thronghont, and by battalion commanders, each 
his t>wn Ijattalicm. 

The drill of the regiment, judging from the showing of the companies on inspec- 
tion, is poor. Few of the captains took the proper x^osition after "open ranks."' 
The movements were slotichily done, \NTong commands were given, some lieuten- 
ants stood at order sword, some at carry sword, and some saluted as the inspector 
approached them. The manual of arms was jjoorly done. 

The regiment received new rifles; these are in good condition but dirty and show 
a lack of care and oversight. Many of the bayonets are old. and most of the bayo- 
net scabl)ards are old, and many ready for condemnation. 

Tin cups, meat cans, knives, forks, and s^ioons are complete, save for newly 
arrived recriiits. Most of them showed lack of care. They were not clean. 

The regiment is complete with leggings, shelter halves, pins, poles, ponchos, and 
])lankets. save the slight deficiences made by recruits coming in. 

In underwear some of the men have two suits, some have not, and their own 
wishes seem to have settled the question. 

Most of the men have two pairs of shoes, most of which are not the Government 
issue shoes, but those purchased in open market. 

Police of camp is poor, and evidently not given much attention. The company 
kitchens show an improvement since I first saw them, but are far from good as 
regards cleanliness. The sinks are screened and properly covered. Kitchen pits 
are not covered often enough. 

Meals are well cooked, considei-ing the lack of appliances. This regiment has 
never received proper cooking utensils, and has to do with makeshifts. They 
should be supplied with either Buzzacot ovens or Hall stoves, and a proper number 
of camp kettles and mess pans. They can not cook properly as they now are. 

The supply of canvas in the hands of the regiment is much too small. They 
have no facilities for covering their ration, and hard bread, coffee, flour, and sugar 
are being spoiled from exposure to the rain, and it is beyond the power of the 
company commanders to stop or prevent all of this waste. The regimental hos- 
pital has not sufficient canvas for the patients it has to handle. 

Generally, this regiment is not in good shape. They are not as far advanced 
as they should be after two months of service. There seems to be a lack of atten- 
tion to detail on the part of the officers, and a lack of knowledge of their duties. 

One company paraded in blanket rolls, the others wore both blanket rolls and 
blanket bags. What a soldier is required to have in heavy marching order did 
not seem to be known to the captains. No regimental order or instructions on 
the subject seems to have been given beyond " take everything you have got." 

Policing and care of the kitchens seems to be in the hands of the sergeants. I 
found no captain who had ordered his lieutenants to supervise either work. It 
all goes in a hit-or-miss fashion, men individually doing the best they know, but 
not properly instructed, super^^sed. or inspected. 

The company books are badly kept. When it is considered that the lieutenant- 
colonel of this regiment is a regular oflacer. whose knowledge and experience, if 
used, could have prevented most of these defects, and properly instructed the 
officers, a failure to adapt means to ends is apparent. I assembled the captains 
and explained the proper method of keeping company books. The lieutenant- 
colonel, who was present, announced that he had called attention to the subject 
before and offered to explain, but that no steps had been taken. 

A shai-p. severe course of instruction is necessary before this regiment will be 
ready to take the field. With proper effort it might be made a fair regiment. 
Very respectfully, 

S. C. Mills, Major. Inspector-Oeneral. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 345 

Inspector-Gexerai/s Office, 
Secoxd Division. Fourth Army Corps, 

Tampa. Fla., July 17, 1898. 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Second Division. Fourth Army Corps. 

Sir: I liave the honor to report that iu compliance with the verbal orders of 
the division commander I have made an inspection of the First Ohio Infantry. 

This regiment is iu very good shape, considering its length of service. The 
camp is clean and fairly well policed. The sinks are well screened, properly cov- 
ered, and looked after. The kitchen ijits for refuse are well away from the kitch- 
ens. The kitchens are clean, and the food seems to be well cooked. 

The ordnance equipment came partly from the State erinipment and partly from 
ssne since, and is a mixture of old and new. The arms are in good condition, 
well cared for, and reasonably clean. Some minor articles of equipment need 
replacing. 

The regiment is fairly well uniformed, and has the proper underwear and shoes 
for a change for each man. 

There is not enoxigh canvas with this regiment, and some of what they have is 
State issue of a very poor kind. Most of the company officers are living in tents 
which do not turn the rain. 

The company books are started, and such eiTors as I found in them were due to 
the lack of proper instrtiction. 

The regiment as a whole shows an earnest desire to know and do its duty that 
will make of it a good regiment. 

C(jmpany j\I. recently joined, is a recruit company raised to complete the regi- 
ment, and neither officers nor men have any military knowledge. It will be some 
time before tliis company is up to the others iu point of efficiency. It needs the 
services of competent drillmasters and instructors. 

The ordnance, tentage, and quai"terinaster"s supplies and clothing brought by 
this regiment from the State rendezvous are State property, and the transfer to 
the United States, and the qiiestion of personal responsibility for this property, 
has not yet been settled. Company commanders are still reporting to the State 
as to x^roperty. 

It w^ll probably require the services of a " board of officers" to settle this ques- 
tion, and it should be attended to at once, and the property taken up by the proper 
officers in the name of the United States. 

This regiment needs more drill instruction and experience, but could, if neces- 
sary, take the field with eleven comiianies in fairly good condition. 
Very respectfully. 

S. C. Mills, Major. Inspector-General. 



Headquarters Second Division. Fourth Army Corps, 

Inspector-General's Office, 

Tampa, Fla., July 19. 1898. 
Assistant Adjutant-General, 

Second Divisioii, Fourth Army Corps. 
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that in compliance -^-ith the verbal orders 
of the division commander I have made an inspection of the Third Pennsylvania 
Infantry, U. S. Volunteers. 

This regiment is completely armed, and the equipment is complete, save the 
usual minor deficiencies which always exist in a regiment. The regiment is well 
supplied with clotliing. which is in good condition. Arms are in excellent condi- 
tion, are well cared for, and are cleaner than any I have seen in the hands of 
volunteer troops. 



34<! INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR AVITH SPAIN. 

Blanket rolls were properly packed, and there was a nniformity of appearance 
of tlu> companies . which shows care and attention to detail on the part of the 
regimental commander. 

The general police of the camp is excellent. The company streets are well 
policed. All refuse is bnrned and the indestructible remnant then buried. The 
sinks are in good condition and are properly looked after under existing orders. 

All water used in the camp is first boiled, then filtered. No lemonade stands, 
etc., are allowed in the camp. 

The manual of arms and siich movements as I saw at inspection were fairly 
well execiTted. So far as I can judge, the discipline of the regiment is good. 
Positions of officers and enlisted men seem to be iTuderstood. 

The books of the companies showed the usual errors, due to lack of instruction. 
The adjutant's and regimental (quartermaster's books and records are complete 
and well kept. 

The regiment needs more drill, instruction, and experience to perfect itself but 
is in very good condition and ready to take the field. 
Very respectfully, 

S. C. Mills, Major, Tnspector-Oenend. 



War Department, Inspector-General's Office, 

^Vaf!Illllgtoll, August 11, 189S. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army 

(Through the Inspector-General's Office). 

Sir: I have the honor to rejjort that in compliance \vith paragraph 36, Special 
Orders 185, Adjutant-General's Office, I left this city Monday evening for Tryon, 
N. C, to examine a tract of land referred to in letters inclosed here\\nth from L. 
S. Brown, esq., general agent Southern Railroad Company, Harrison J. Barrett, 
and Hon. James N. Tyner, Attorney-General, Post-Office Department. A rough 
map of the tract is also inclosed. 

On reaching Tryon I made a careful examination of the tract in qiiestion and 
the siTrrounding country, and, as I reported to you by telegraph, found it unsuited 
for a camp for a division of troops. 

This tract lies at the foot of the main ridge of the Tryon Mountains, and is 
rough and badly cut up by small ravines. There are many small conical buttes 
scattered about through the tract. The country is heavily wooded, and dense 
undergrowth is common. The cleared land is mostly in the small creek bottoms 
and not extensive enough to afford good camp grounds. Good camp grounds for 
single battalions could be found, but to put in a brigade would require a very 
detached set of camps. 

The only cleared ground large enough for drill piirposes is in the bottom lands 
of the Pacolet River, which are low, damp, and liable to overflow. 

Tryon is a village of 500 inhabitants, on a branch of the Southern Railroad. 
There is one short siding at the station, a very small depot and freight house, and 
no conveniences for detraining a large number of men and animals. The coun- 
try is well watered by springs and mountain streams, and climatically is very 
good indeed, but is topogTaphically unsuited for camping troops. 

I returned to this city to-day. 
Very respectfully, 

S. C. Mills, Major, Ins2)ector-General. 



! 



INSPEC'TION REPORTS. 347 



War Dkpartmext. Inspect* )u Genera i/s Office, 

Washingtini. August i.7. ISDS. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army. 

Sir: I liave the honor to report that, in compliance with the verbal instnictions 
of the Secretary of War, I left this city at 12A~) p. m. the 12th instant, to proceed 
to Sand Lake, near Troy, N. Y., to examine a plot of ground there with a view to 
the establishment of a camp for a division of troops. I reached Troy at 2 a. m. 
the 13th, and in company with a committee of citizens went to the grounds at 9 
in the morning. 

Sand Lake is situated abont 10 miles to the east of Troy and in the rolling 
upland country. The general elevation is about 1.000 feet abov3 tide water: the 
country is well cleared and watered. The land proposed as the camp site is x^artly 
the property of the Averill Park Land Improvement Company and partly owned 
l)y J. K. Averill, esq. It comprist>s about TOO acres. A tract of about 200 acres is 
extremely well adapted topographically for a camp ground. It is sufficiently 
rolling to have good natural drainage, and the greater jjortion of it is covered 
with a tliick, springy turf, which would make good tent bottoms. A division 
could be put in camp there close enough together for easy administrative work. 
Water for the camp would have to be supplied by a i)iimi)ing station at Sand 
Lake and the use of mains or tanks. Sand Lake as a water supply is well-nigh 
perfect. It is a small spring-fed lake. with, no inlet, rocky bottom and sides, and 
a depth varjdng from 80 to 100 feet. The water is clear and cold, and there are 
no signs of vegetable growth in it. The proximity of Troy, with its pipe fac- 
tories, would make the prejiaration of the waterworks an easy matter. 

Hay, wood, and cheap pine lumber are obtainable near the location. There is 
an ice house at the lake, which could furnish the ice necessary for hospital 
purposes. 

The Averill Land Company and Mr. Averill arc willing to lease the land to the 
Government and to render any assistance in their powei-. 

The lack of railroad facilities is the drawback of the site, the nearest station 
being at Troy, where there are ample terminal facilities. For commimication 
with Sand Lake from Troy there is, first, a good toll turnpike with easy grades and 
fine roadbed; secondly, an electric-car line. This is a standard gauge, heavy rail, 
and was originally laid for steam use, then changed to electricity as a motive 
power. The schedule time from Troy to Sand Lake is twenty-five minutes. The 
company can handle easily excursions of 1.000 people, and is willing to gxiarantee 
to handle troops as they arrive. The conii)any has some box and flat cars and 
believes it could handle the freight. This, however, I doubt, and think the turn- 
pike would have to be used as chief method of supply of camii. The distance, 10 
miles, makes a round trip per day possible. 

The city hospitals of Troy would be available for use in case of need, and there 
is just finished, but not yet in use. a new hospital of 100 beds, which could be 
ready for use in a week were it desired. 

The citizens of Troy are much interested in the project, and any assistance in 
their power would be given. 

I left Troy on the afternoon of the l-ith and reached this city at 4 p. m. on tht 
I4tli instant. 

Very respectfully, 

S. C. Mills, 3Iajoi\ Inspedor-GcncraL 



348 INVESTKiATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

War Department. Inspect( )R-CtEner al"s Office, 

Washington, August 22, 1898 1 
The Adjutant-General United States Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that, under verbal instructions from the Adju- 
tant-General of the Army, I left this city at 12.45 p. m. August 19, to visit 
Washington Park, New Jersey, and examine it as a proposed site for a camj) of a 
division of troops, its use having been tendered by W. J. Thompson, es(|.. tlie 
owner. 

Washington Park is situated along the Delaware River below the town of 
Gloucester, N. J., and 4 miles from the city of Philadelphia, and is fitted up as ' 
a summer resort. The lands owned by Mr. Thomj^son comprise about 600 acres, 
of AViiicli about 450 acres woiild l)e available for camp purposes. The frontage 
al'vag th3 river is almost a mile, the land running back varying distances. That 
portion covered by the buildings, grounds, and amusement stands of tlie resort 
lies nearest the river, but does not cover a]i the river front. Communication 
with the city of Philadelphia and the outer world is well provided for. First, the 
Soiithern New Jersey branch of the Pennsylvania system has a station within a 
mile of the grounds. This is a double-track road, and connects by a bridge at 
Camden with the main road. Second, a trolley line frona Camden, N. J., to the 
gi-ounds. Third, the Washingron Park Company has a line of steamers which 
sail from the Arch Street wharf, Philadelphia, to their pier on the grounds. The 
fleet comprises four side-wheel steamers and four double-decked ferryboats, double 
enders. The matter of transportation is therefore beyond question. 

The ground itself is a gravelly soil, with some sand, lying well above tide water, 
and is sufficiently undulating to drain well. I visited it immediately after a 
heavy rain and found the soil in good condition. Mr. Thompson's land is fenced 
in, and there are a good many interior fences which could be easily removed. 
There is timbered land enough to afford shady loafing places without scattering 
the various camjis too widely. Should more ground be desired in laj'iug out a 
camp. Mr. Thompson says he can secure lease of adjoining jjroperties. 

Water for drinking and cooking purposes would be supplied from artesian 
wells, of which there are four on the resort grounds, only one of which is now 
being used. There is a standpipe and pump on the grounds. Water can be 
readily carried to any point by simply laying the pipes. The water is very fine- 
cold, clear, and pure. As it comes from the hydrants it is cold enough for drink- 
ing piirposes. Bathing could be done along the river. There is an inclosure of 
500 by 850 feet now used as the scene of a fireworks representation of the Battle 
of Manila, which can be turned over for the use of troops as a bathing pavilion. 
To reach it. it would be necessary to cross the resort grounds. Ice can readily 
be procured, and there is an empty ice house on grounds; also small cold-storage 
house which can be used. There is a system of electric lights on the ground 
which could easily be led to any desired points for use. There is telephone com- 
munication with the city, but no telegraph. 

Milk, butter, eggs, and some vegetables are easily and cheaply procured. 

Should it be desired to encamp cavalry, Mr. Thompson tenders the Gloucester 
race track, owned by him. It has stabling for about 1.500 horses: water laid in 
stables. The track is about 150 acres in extent, and is about a mile and a half up 
the river from Washington Park. 

Adjoining the Washington Park grounds on the south is a Government light- 
house station, the grounds of which comprise. I am told, about 8 acres, and 
which, if obtainable, would make a good hospital site, as they are easily isolated, 
well drained, and open to the river breeze. These grounds present many features 
to make a good camp, but the site is open to the serious objection of being a 
popular summer resort for the people of Philadelphia and the surrounding cities. 
The main reason of the tender is the hope of large patronage of people at the 



INSPECTION KEPORTS. 349 

resort, caused liy the presence of the troops. It is a search for ;i new attraction to 

help ont a waning season. Mr. Thompson is ready and willing to hell) in every 

way to put the gTonnds into shape and comply with such restrictions as may be 

necessary for disciplinary purposes in the management of the grounds, but the 

camp would l)e a feature of the resort, and the daily presence of large crowds of 

people must be expected. 

I returned to this city at i.'SO p.m. August '20. 

Very respectfully, 

S. C. Mills, Inspector-General. 



War Department, Inspector-General's Office, 

Washington. Angust 36, IS'OS. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army. 

(Through the Inspector-General's Office). 

Sir: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with verbal instrvictions 
from the Adjutant-General of the Army. I left this city at 11.10 p. m.. the 'i'dd 
instant, and proceeded to Charleston. W. Va.. to examine certain lands there ten- 
dered as a camp site. I reached Charleston at 13.30 p. m., August 24. and in 
company with the mayor of the city and various prominent citizens made an 
examination of the lands. 

The first site suggested was below the city about a mile, and comprises about 
300 acres of bottom land lying between the Kanawha River and the foothills on 
the north side. This land lies about twenty feet above high-water marie, and is 
the ordinary bottom formation, presenting a series of low ridges nearly parallel to 
the river. These drain to the hollows, but there is no good drainage to the river. 
There are spots where the rain water evidently accumulates and stands until 
absorbed in the soil. The ground is mostly cleared, a fringe of trees lining the 
river bank. The soil is a clo^e, tenaciovis clay. 

This plat begins at the city limits and runs down the river until the village of 
Petersburg is reached. There are a good many scattered houses on the plat. 
The ownership is much divided and many persons would l)e concerned in a lease 
of the gi'ounds. 

The Kanawha and Michigan Railroad passes along the northern side: there is a 
trolley line leading through the plat . and a country road along the base of the 
foothills. Communication with the grounds is therefore good. Water could be 
easily supplied from the city waterworks, a 4-inch main terminating near the 
eastern end of the jdat. Water for Charleston is piimped from the Elk River to 
a hill reservoir, thence conducted to a filtering plant, and then distributed to the 
city. It is good water, clear and cold. The Second Regiment West Virginia 
Volunteers camped on a portion of this plat for two months. Captain Burns. 
Seventeenth United States Infantry, the mustering officer, tells me the camp was 
a healthy one. 

This plat of ground is one on which a brigade could bivouac or camp for a day 
or two and say they had a good camp. It would not be desirable as a semiperma- 
nent camp, as the ground is not extensive enough. The soil would make good 
dust or heavy miid. as the case might be. and the location is too near the town. 

On the morning of the 25tli instant I \asited a location 4 miles up the Kanawha 
River, also suggested as a camp site. It is a tract of about (500 acres, bottom land, 
and is owned by the Kanawha City Land Company. It is a more cleared open 
tract, that would afford a good camp, topographically, for two brigades, possibly 
for a division, for t, short time. The valley here is about three-fourths of a mile 
-s^nde, so a camp would be long and naiTOW. The Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad 
runs along the south side of the strip and there is a long siding going into tlie 
grounds and terminating at an unused factory. This would give easy railroad 



350 IXVESTKiA'IION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. |; 

facilities. There are a number of unused buildings on the site, inckiding a hotel,: 
whic'li could be used if desirable. The soil is clay. There are some wells on the 
tract. Good water is reached in about 40 feet, di-ive wells being used mostly. 
The Kanawha River affords good bathing facilities, and the water from the river 
could be pumped and distributed to the camp. 

This site, while it would afford room for a camp, offers no especial advantages 
to cause its selection for a semipermanent camp. It is, like the other site, a good 
place to put a ccmimand if you were there and had to camp somewhere. 

I returned to this city at 7 o'clock a. m. to-day. 

Very respectfully, S. C. Mills, 

Major, Inspector-General. 



Headquarters First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 

Office of the Inspector-General, 
Jaragna (or Siboney), Cuba, Saturday, June 25, 189S. 
Inspector-General United States Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following itinerary and report: 

June 25, disembarked from steamship Santiago. June 20, bivouacked in saw- 
mill at Altares (or Siboney), 12 miles east of Santiago de Cuba. June 27, First 
Division, Fifth Army Corps, marched 6 miles; passed First Volunteer Cavalry 
graves at Se villa; camped on gi'ound previously occupied by Second Division, 
Fifth Army Corps — General Lawton's command. 

The fight at Las Guasimas June 24, 1898. Las Guasimas means '' a tree." The 
affair was participated in by eight troops First Volunteer Cavalry, dismounted 
(Colonel Wood. Lieutenant-Colonel Roosevelt), and eight troops. First and Tenth 
United States Cavalry, also dismounted. Colonel Wood states that the engage- 
ment began at about 10 o'clock a. m. and lasted about four hoiirs. Report of 
Ma3<ir-General Wheeler, U. S. Volunteers, to corps commander. Gen. W. R. . 
Shatter, gave casiialty list, our side, 17 killed, 08 wounded. 

I passed over the ground where Captain Capron had been killed three days 
before. A Rough Rider pointed out to me one grave where, he stated, Hamilton 
Fish and others of the First Volunteer Cavalry were buried, also a soldier's 
solitary grave. Numbers of vultures or buzzards circle constantly over the 
region. Col. C. A. Wikoff, Twenty-second United States Infantry, so guided, 
foiTud the remains of a Spanish soldier near the camp of the Third Brigade, Fifth 
Army Corps, near Sevilla. 

At Las Guasimas, June 27, I picked up under a tree, beneath which Generals 
Kent and Hawkins were resting their horses, the following: Broken butt of a. 
rifle, snapped at the small of the stock, about fifty fired cartridges, several clip 
cartridges, carriers, and other things. The pasteboard, tin tops, and bottoms were 
of the pcittern invented and patented by Capt. A. H. Russell, Ordnance Depart- 
ment, United States Army. Headless cartridges had brass shell v/ithdrawn by 
what is jwpularly known as the " clutch " ejector; no flange. I omitted to append 
a copy of each of the labels ixpon the pasteboard package in which the cartridges 
were originally packed. Here they are: "All are headless." Each pasteboard 
annuunition package contained three clips; each clip contained five carti-idges. 
Some were ma<le in Paris, some in Baden, some in Brussels, and another Idnd of 
ammunition, made in Seville, was found by me. Ammunition boxes, zinc-lined 
tlu-oughout. each capable of containing apparently 1.500 cartridges, were also 
found on the ridge of Las Guasimas. Each bore in stencil the following: 
" Maestranza de la Habana." 

As doiibtless official reports and comprehensive newsi-)aper accounts have been 
made public concerning the engagement at Las Guasimas, now occupied by, in 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 351 

part, the Third Brigade, First Division, Fifth Army Coi-ps (Colonel Wikoff), I 
will be discursive enough to state that it is understood that the Spanish object to 
the American style of fighting, as being a kind to which they were unaccustom(!d; 
their criticism being that the Tenth United States Cavalry neither returned the 
Spanish fire nor retreated when fired upon from heights, but just kept straight on 
up the hill. Then, but not until then, shooting back, so compelling the Spanish 
to retire. This criticism is on a par with the complaint concerning the projectile 
from the Vesuvius. It is stated that the Spanish object to having earthquakes 
shot at them. 

Three papers are published in Santiago de Cuba. One of the 16th of June 
states that 16,000 soldiers were disembarked at Daiquiri and Siboney, or were to 
be disembarked. These figures were nearly correct. 

At Las Guasimas it is alleged that one of the nrales loaded with an essential part 
of a machine gun, Colt's make, belonging to the First Volunteer Cavalry (Colo- 
nel Wood) , ran away. 

It is claimed that machine guns were used by the Spanish during the engage- 
ment at Las Guasimas. At date of writing, June 27, the sentiment prevails that 
the Spanish will make but feeble resistance. 

June 28, Tuesday: Road repairing. Cubans did not aid in this labor. I sighted 
Campo del Marte (Camp of Mars), an outljang suburb of Santiago de Cuba. 

June 29, Wednesday. I spent quietly in camp at Sevilla; visited an abandoned 
distillery and sugarhouse near by. 

June 80, Headquarters First Division, Fifth Army Corps, hammock of inspector- 
general of brigade. Commander J. Ford Kent's division: Camp opposite General 
Shaffer's headciuarters, Aguadores River, 2.100 yards east of El Poso (the well) 
and probably within range of Campo del Marte (Place of Mars), suburb of San- 
tiago de Cuba. 

Thursday, June 30, 1898: the headquarters First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 
Brigadier-General Kent conmianding: Broke camp at Sevilla at 3 o'clock p. m. 
and proceeded along the Sevilla-Santiago trail westward toward General Wheeler's 
headquarters and El Poso. It was expected that the route was open— that is, that 
General Lawton, Second Division, Fifth Army Corps, also General Wheeler's 
dismounted cavalry division, likewise one of Major Dillenback's artillery bat- 
teries, E or K (First) or A or F (Second) had advanced toward Caney, El Caney, 
or in the direction of Fort San Juan or Campo del Marte or the San Juan River. 
But these expectations were not immediately realized. The distance from 
Sevilla to El Poso was understood to be less than 4 miles, that from Sevilla to 
corps headquarters being about 2i miles. 

We crossed the Aguadores River twice, and ten minutes later passed on the 
right of the camp vacated by tlie Second Brigade, Second Division. Fifth Army 
Corps (Col. Evan Miles), viz. Fourth, First, and Twenty-fifth United States 
Infantry, opposite to which, or on the left side of the road, had been the First 
Brigade, same division (Lieut. Col. John H. Patterson, Twenty-second), viz. 
Eighth and Twenty-second United States and the Second Massachusetts Volun- 
teers. A little farther to the west was, or had been, the camp of the Third Bri- 
gade, same division (Lieut. Col. J. T. Haskell. Seventeenth Infantry), viz. Seventh, 
Seventeenth, and Twelfth United States Infantry. 

Our progress was slow, being impeded by cavalry dismounted, so that the First 
Division could not get into camp, previously occupied by General Lawton's divi- 
sion until 10 o'clock at night, Wikoff's brigade being the last to reach its camp- 
ing gi-ound. The division commander took up his head(iuarters for the night in 
a tent belonging to the First Division hospital. Chief Surg. M. W. Wood in charge, 
opposite the camp of the commanding general Fifth Army Corps, William R. 
Sliafter. Here we witnessed four balloon ascensions, made under the manage- 
ment, I believe, of the Signal Service Corps officers. 



3r)2 ]N^■ES'^I(;ATION of conduct of war avith spain. 

The present sti-engtli of tlie First Division. Fifth Army Corps, is 202 oflficers and 
5.09.") effective men. 

From General Shaffer's headquarters, Jnne 30. to the crossing of the Agua- 
dores east of El Poso, is l.SOO yards; said crossing to El Poso is 300 yards; from 
El Poso to Balloon Forks, 1.200 yards; from Balloon Forks to the eastern slope of 
the hill. Fort San Jnan, is 1.250 yards; headquarters First Division. Fifth Army 
Corijs. 

Hammock of the inspector-general of Brigadier General Kent's division, Fri- 
day, July 1, 1898: 

i 

THE ASSAULT UPON AND CAPTURE OF FORT SAN JUAN. 

Broke camp at about 7 o'clock a. m. and accompanied the division commander, 
General Kent, and his adjutant-general. Maj. A. C. Sharpe, who, with his personal 
aids, Lieuts. George S. Cartwright and William P. Jackson, proceeded westward 
along road leading to El Poso. 

We were mounted; so were the rest of the division staff officers. Most of us 
remained mounted until after the capture of Fort San Juan, except on three 
necessary occasions, viz: First, when the First Division head(juarters halted at 
the Balloon Forks; second, when, at General Hawkins's suggestion, reconnois- 
sance was made of the position of the Spanish, visible about 800 yards distant; 
third, when we (viz, General Kent, Lieiitenant Cartwright, and self) sheltered 
our three horses on the east slojie of San Juan Hill, oixrselves walking up to the 
crest, joining General Hawkins, who had preceded us there. These three excep- 
tions noted cover the period from 7 o'clock a. m. to 1.50 p. m. Personally, I 
resumed my hoi'se about 3.15 p. m., or about twenty minutes after dismounting, 
and. remained in saddle throughout the afternoon. 

We reached El Poso (First Division headquarters) at 7.25 o'clock, in advance of 
the main body First Division. There found Capt. George A. Grimes's battery 
of light artillery in position on the west of El Poso. Personally I saw thi-ee shots 
fired by Grimes. Was then directed by General Kent to retrace my route for 
two purposes: First, to notify brigade commanders to inarch in the following 
order, vi^:: First (Hawkins), Third (Wikoff), Second (Pearson): at 8.30 o'clock I 
had completed the delivery of these orders. Second, to direct brigade command- 
ers to keep well closed up and to be in immediate readiness for action. Dui'ing 
the discharge of these duties small-arms firing in the direction of El Caney was 
incessant. 

I then returned to El Poso: saw Major Sharpe there; General Kent had gone 
forward. Artillery fire had ceased. The major told me that his orderly had the 
head of his penis cut off by the explosion there of the enemy's shrapnel. The 
miijor was desirous of ascertaining whether there was any route or practicable 
avenu(! of approach to the San Juan fort other than the Sevilla-Santiago trail. 
Was unaljle to tell. 

After a brief survey from the summit of the knoll where the Grimes battery 
was, I rejoined General Kent. He was then near Balloon Forks, 1,250 yards 
from the foot of the elevation, whereof Fort San Juan is the summit. Balloon 
Forks are 1 ,200 yards west of El Poso. In a depression to our right and on the 
farther side of the San Juan River, about fifty yards to our right, the balloon men 
could be heard talking in the undergrowth. The balloon had been towed along 
the trail to that point and it was a little above the tree tops. 

Major Maxfield, U. S. Volunteer Signal Corps, appeared to be in charge, and 
General Kent directed me to ascertain fi'om some of the signal corpa people what 
could be seen of the enemy's position, intrenchments, numbers, etc. I made sev- 
eral trips between the balloon and to where General Kent was in the discharge of 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 353 

these duties, and reported to tUe coiiiiiiander of the First Division in substance 
as follows, viz: A blockhouse on an elevation is in front, say iSQO yards. It has 
a "line of intrenchments aromid it, also on both flanks,"' swarming with the 
enemy; he is firing. The line of intrenchments '"to the left as we face it does not 
appear to extend so far as does the line to the I'ight." This blockhouse j)roved lo 
be Fort San Juan. Meanwhile the Spaniards were concentrating artillery and 
small-arms fire upon the balloon and defilading the trail where General Kent, 
Major Sharpe. Aids Cartwi-ight and Jackson were. 

Captain ]\Ic Alexander and Volunteer Aid A. C. Munoz were also in attendance; 
Lieutenant-Colonel Derby, Volunteer Engineers, left the balloon, ran across to 
where General Kent was, and told him that a short distance to the rear the fork 
of road on the left side led to the San Juan River, striking the stream lower down 
the river than the other (the Sevilla Santiag(j trail) did. Later I ascertained that 
the right-hand or telegraph-wire-lined trail led to the Aguadores River. Colonel 
Derby suggested that this left arm of the fork leading to the San Juan River just 
below tills junction with the Aguadores River be iitilized. Colonel Derby further 
suggested that if any troops took the left-hand fork they should be deployed under 
cover, without exposing themselves to the enemy until a general advance was 
directed. 

It was then 11 o'clock, and the dismounted cavalry were understood to be at 
work northward. We heard that General Lawton had captured El Caney. 

Two regiments (viz. Sixth and Sixteenth LTnited States Infantry of General 
Hawkins's brigade) followed the right-hand fork of the road. A doulile line of 
telegraph wnre ran along this fork. General Kent ordered the Seventy-first New 
York Volunteers (Col. W. A. Downes) to take the left-liand fork; but before this 
splitting of the First Brigade took place a staff officer brought to General Kent 
word that caused the division commander, myself, and Captain McAlexander, 
.also Lieutenants Jackson and Cartwright, to advance 350 yards beyond Balloon 
Forks, following the right-hand road to the Aguadores River, where we found (piite 
a number of horses and men congregated. 

Dismounting, we walked about 50 yards iip to where General Hawkins was on 
a little ridge to the right of the road, where, by jjarting the foliage, we were 
within full view of the enemy on San Juan Hill, and Avithin apparently 800 yards 
of the Spanish. 

A. conference between Generals Kent and Hawkins ensued. Witliin five min- 
utes the division commander personally asked Lieut. J. D. Miley. Fifth Artillery, 
aid-de-camp to the corps commander, to accomjiany him and take a view of the 
enemy. After lieutenant Miley had completed the writing he was engaged in he 
did so. A brief consultation ensued. Meantime dismounted cavalrymen were 
being filed through the undergrowth northward, and the firing from the enemy, 
both from the front and from concealed coverts, both shi'apnel and small arms, 
was being maintained. 

The division commander and attendant officers remoimted and proceeded back 
to the forks herein called "• Balloon Forks, where General Kent established and 
maintained his headciuarters until about l.'-35 o'clock, leaving the forks only to 
direct brigade commanders, regimental commanders, and subordinates, particu- 
larly the Seventy-first New York Volunteers, and men under the influence of many 
emotions, what to do, how to do it, disposition, etc. In this he was officially and 
energetically aided by Maj. A. C. Sharpe, acting adjutant-general Volunteers, by 
First Lieuts. George S. Cartwright and William P. Jackson, Twenty-fourtii 
United States Infantry, personal aids, by Capt. U. G. McAlexander, acting quar- 
termaster Volunteers, and by additional aid, Mr. A. C. Munoz. 

When the First Division approached Balloon Forks, General Kent was con- 
stantly exposed to the fire of the gueri'illa shooting from the tree tops and other 
7833— VOL. 1 23 



354 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK AVITH SPAIN. 

concealed coverts, also to the fire from Fort San Juan, the possessors of which, 
lalo^ving perfectly well the exact range to the only avenues of approach, owing 
to douse chaparral, unremittingly shelled and small-armed the two trails, espe- 
cially where the forks converged. 

The balloon, too, was a prominent objective. I have since counted 30 bullet 
holes in one tree. The First Division commander and staff occupied the most 
dangerous position east of and facing Fort San Juan. Colonel Wikofif, Twenty- 
second Infantry, now lies buried there. As stated, the Sixth and Sixtetnth United 
States Infantry took the right-hand fork. General Kent indicated the left-hand 
route to Col. W. A. Dov/ne's regiment, the Seventy-first New York Volunteers, 
an organization then having present for duty 44 officers and 855 men, three bat- 
talions, commanded as follows: First, Major Whittle; Second, Major Wells; 
Third, Major Frank Keck. The First Battalion headed into the left-hand trail, 
but retreated or hunted cover in a panic occasiohed by the explosion near by 
of a shrapnel and the loss of some of the Seventy-first's men. 

General Kent and every officer of his staff ineffectually tried by mandate, per- 
suasion, and action to force the battalion into and along the pathway, but the men 
were thoroughly and, all things considered, naturally demoralized. Confusion 
ensued, and tlie left-hand route to San Juan was congested by the First Battalion 
of the Seventy-first, some of the men of which prostrated themselves in the p;\th. 
The majority of them crept into the bushes lining the route. The Tliird Battal- 
ion, Seventy-first New York Volunteers, Major Frank Keck commanding Compa- 
nies B,.L, K, and E, was headed in by officers of General Kent's staff, encouraged 
by the division commander himself. 

This battalion passed somewhat farther into and along the left trail than the 
preceding one of the same regiment had done, but the tendency of tlie regiment 
was so obvious that it was apparent the Seventy -first, as /in organization, could 
not be gotten into its proper position, viz, on the left of the Sixth and Sixteenth 
United States regiments of infantry. The indecision of the occasion caused con- 
fusion, and the action of the Seventy-first New York Volunteers blocked the 
advance of the Third Brigade. 

Major Sharpe ran to order the Third Brigade to pass the position of the Seventy- 
first, panic stricken, as stated. He was aided in this duty by every officer of the 
division staff, including General Kent; and, without hesitation, the Ninth United 
States (Lieutenant-Colonel Ewers), the Thirteenth (Lieutenant-Colonel Worth), 
and the Twenty-fourth United States Infantry (Lieutenant-Colonel Liscum) , 73 
officers and 1.345 men, swung into the left path over and past the Seventy-first 
New York, and kept steadily on, exposed to a vicious fire from an, as yet to them, 
unseen foe. Only once under this galling fire did any unit halt, and this delay 
was but temporary. A bursting shell right at the forks of the road caused a 
company of the Thirteenth United States Infantry to start to deploy, loading 
their rifles as they hunted for cover. Sharp admonition restored discipline, and 
the company passed on, as personally told by the division commander. 

The casualty list of that brigade of regulars, footed up after Fort San Juan was 
carried, is as follows: Killed, its commander and 5 other officers, not including 
regimental commanders shot down (Worth and Liscum). Nine other officers of 
the In-igade were also wounded. At date of writing 9 men are missing. The 
New York men report 43 men missing, 13 men killed, no officers Irilled, 1 officer 
and 60 men wounded. From the left fork of the road to where the combatants 
were mutually visible was about 850 yards. 

Beyond the San Jujin River at the lower crossing lies a fringe of trees, a ridge, 
and then open country and with very few trees, marshy bottom, and high pampas 
(Guinea or Panama) grass up to the very slopes, which at that place has an angle 
of about 30\ The hill vertically is fully 125 feet. 



INSPECTION KEl'OKTS. 355 

Five regiments of this division were firing before the Second Brigade (Pear- 
son's), consisting of the Tenth, Second, and Twenty-first United States Infantry 
(Lieutenant-Colonel Kellogg. Lieutenant-Colonel Wherry, and Lieutenant-Colonel 
McKibbin), were in a position to participate. General Kx3nt personally led the 
Twenty-first Regiment by the right-hand road; the other two regiments took the 
left-hand route, and it then became my privilege to start in Major Keck"s battalion 
of the Seventy-first New York, aided by Lieutenants Tayman, Twenty-foiirth, 
and McArthur, Second Infantry. The division commander did not leave the 
forks of the road, herein called '• Balloon Forks," until the head of his last regi- 
ment, the Twenty-fii'st, got there. 

When the Twenty-first iiassed, he led it personally. Several dead or wounded 
men were stretched out about the x^lace — that is, where the road toward San Juan 
divided. The division headqiiarter's horses had been stamx)eded by the Seventy- 
first, all but my own horse, which was 'killed. Siirg. Guy C. M. Godfrey, Medi- 
cal Department, United States Army, generously loaned to General Kent his 
horse. It was then a little after 1.45 p. m. Gen. W. Ludlow's horse was killed 
near the ford. Dr. Godfrey, althoiigh under fire, advanced "wdth two litters and 
picked up and carried two wounded men to the rear. 

General Kent, Major Reade, and Lieutenant Cartwi'ight, moiinted, then pro- 
ceeded to Fort San Juan, where General Hawkins, the Sixth, Sixteenth, Thirteenth, 
Ninth, and a portion of the Twenty-fourth Infantry had preceded us. The 
national flag was raised amid cheers by those who had gained the hill. This was 
about 2 o'clock p. m. , and I was sent rapidly to order every effective man of the 
First Division to get on to the San Juan Hill. In the discharge of this duty I 
encountered stragglers in detachments, groups, and singly, also mounted men 
and officers, and had am^^le evidence that, althoxigh the main body of the defend- 
ers of Fort San Juan had retreated to Cami)o de Marte,the guerrilla sharpshooters 
had not. 

Just as Lieutenant Cartwi'ight and I had been shot at by concealed indi\T[dual 
marksmen, so it was throughout the day. Wounded men were assassinated by 
them w^hen on litter or protected by the Red Cross flag. Their operations were 
so effectively deadly that bearers, first-aid men, etc., were afraid to show them- 
selves in the Sevilla-Santiago road or the Balloon left fork. A panic of apprehen- 
sion i>revailed among cami) followers and also among some who were not camp 
followers, but all of whom were endeavoring to shelter themselves. 

Some men threw ponchos, etc., over their heads for protection. Riding along 
the last-named route, I counted 18 dead soldiers along a path not 851 yards long, 
and was piteously appealed to by many of oiir wounded to remove them to the 
iindergrowth or elsewhere, where they would be concealed from the view of the 
sharpshooters. Being alone, and it being my duty to get every effective man to 
San Juan Fort, I could do but little. Lieiitenant-Colonels Worth and Egbert I 
passed, lying wounded under a big tree on the bank on the farther side of the San 
Juan River, opposite the ford at the end of the left-hand Balloon road, not to 
exceed 850 yards from the forks which they had passed a little while before lead- 
ing their respective regiments. It was in this left-hand lane, lined with well- 
sheltered New York vohmteers, that I was encountered by Lieutenant Tayman, 
adjutant Twenty-fourth United States Infantry, breathless from running, who 
reported, with the comidiments of the brigade commander (Colonel Wikoff, after- 
wards killed) , that the Ninth, Thirteenth, and Twenty-fourth had passed 70 yards 
beyond the stream, but feared could not, unassisted, advance. 

Two additional regiments were asked for. I was then in the location where the 
Seventy-first New York Volunteer Infantry had run to cover. The exigency 
seemed to justify me in somewhat vociferously demanding of that regiment to 
know if there was an officer, not a coward, who would obey an order from Gen- 



35G INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

oral Kent, the division commander. Capt. Malcom Bafferty, commanding;: Com- 
pany F, Seventy-first New York Volunteers, responded. Captain Rafferty came 
oiit of the hushes and said that he, for one, would obey any and every order from 
General Kent. He was the first officer to respond to my demand. I did not know 
his name then, but Second Lieut. Hilden Olin, same regiment, later gave it to 
me. Finding that Major Keck, commanding the Tliir-d Battalion, sheltered as 
stated, would also obey orders, measures were taken to get that particular bat- 
talion into action, and it is due Lieutenant Tayman to say that he assisted me and 
that a force of the Second United States Infantry, viz. Company A and part of 
Company E, also aided to shove the Seventy-first men into the fight. Second Lieut. 
C. McArthur, Second Infantry, was recognized by me as one of the officers. They 
merit recognition for their action under fire, although complaint was made that 
regulars were being hit from shots by volunteers. I can testify that such could 
hardly have been committed by Major Keck, to whom credit is due for soldierly 
conduct in responding to my demand, coupled with explanation of the exigency, 
that a portion of the organization show itself upon the fii-ing line. 

I also desire to state that I foimd an iineniployed dismounted troop of cavalry 
in the right-hand fork of the road after General Kent had passed on at the head 
of the Twenty-first Infantry about, say, 12 oclock. The cavalry officers in com- 
mand told me that his name was Captayi Ayers. As the cartridge belts of his 
men were full, and as he did not appear to have especial functions. I bi'iefly made 
clear to him the gap occasioned in the left of General Hawkins's bi-igade, due to 
the defection of the Seventy-first New York Volunteer Infantry. He promptly 
went into action along the left-hand road, losing, liis lieutenant subsequently told 
me, four men. Our thanks are due him. 

There is a man named Charles Edwards, private Company I, Seventy-fu-st New 
York Volunteers, who rendered voluntaiy, efficacious, and unremitting care to 
the w(mnded and sick. He merits official recognition. The precise extent of liis 
services and the nature can be attested to by Capt. John Newton, Sixteenth 
Infantry, and by Lieut. W. P. Jackson, Second Infantry, and . aid-de-camp to the 
division commander. 

In general terms, the qiiery as to whether the Spanish land forces will fight, and 
fight desperately, has l)een this day determined affirmatively. Their abilities for 
resistance and their determination have been demonstrated. Their resistance is 
likely to be severe and prolonged. 

Out of a casualty list of killed and wounded, 1st, 2d, and 3d of July, aggregating 
91 officers, regxilars and volunteers. The losses in th(^ dismounted cavalry division 
are stated by General Wheeler to have been for the entire cavalry (Commanders 
Wheeler, Sumner, Young, Wood) as follows: Wounded, 29 officers and 2S8 men. 

After G(nieral Kenfs infantry division assaulted and captured and held Fort 
San Juan (a battle lasting two and a half days), its casualties were significant of 
the valor of the First Division, and desperate resistance of the Spanish, and the 
importance of the victory. Here they are: 

Volunteer Aid A. C. Munoz, wounded. 



Command. 



Ctli TTtiitcd Stnles Innnitry. 
Ifith I'liitoil Stfltes Infantry. 
71st I'niti'd States Infantry . 
Brigade commander 



FIRST BRIGADE. 
(Hawkins and Tlieaker.) 



Killed, 



Officers. Men 



Wounded. 



OfHcera, Men 



99 
104 
60 



Men 

missing. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



an? 



SECOND BRIGADE. 
(Pearson.) 



Command. 



2d TTnited States Infantry.. 
lOtb United States Infantry. 
21st United States Infantry . 



Killed. 



Officers. 



Men. 



Wounded. 



Officers. 



Men. 



Men 

missin" 



THIRD BRIGADE. 
(Wikoff, Worth, Liscum, successively, then Ewers.) 



Utli United States Infantrv 
13tli Ilnitert States Infantry 
24th United States Infantry 
Brigade commander 



FIRST BRIGADE. 




Total killed in General Kent's division in the l)attle of San Juan: Officers. 12; 
men, 87. Total wounded, officers, 34; men, 563. Aggregate, 696. Let these fatal- 
ities speak ftn- themselves. Of the 34 missing some were certainly killed. Iden- 
tification of decomposed bodies mangled by vultures, hundreds of which are 
constantly seen circling around, soon becomes impossible in Cuba. 

A to me, remarkable feature, and one illustrative of the American soldier, white 
or black, was the absence of cries or groans. Men received their death wounds, 
but beyond the dull thud of the btillet when it struck human flesh, followed 
briefly, perhaps, by the exclamation of the victim, there was no other lamenta- 
ti(m when our men sustained injuries from shot or shell, and fell or dragged 
themselves into the l)ushes, here everywhere thickly densely laden with the con- 
vol villus. But the morning-glories witnessed little plaint; the soldiers stiff ered 
in silence. 

Maj. R. I. Eski-idge, Tenth United States Infantry, was horribly mangled by 
a shell, and Maj. M. W. Wood, chief surgeon First Division, says must have 
endured agonizing pain, but after a brief period he made no outcry. The same 
fortitude was shown by private soldiers, but they were uncomplaining, dumb 
heroes. 

I was present when Capt. B. Brereton, Twenty-Fourth Infantry, then near the 
summit of San Juan Ridge, was asked l)y General Kent if he was hurt. The Cap- 
tain smilingly replied, "It's nothing, sir; just touched; that's all." Then he 
walked a few steps, sat down, and quietly engaged in conversation Avith another 
captain, same regiment, who was standing exposed to the fire from the trenches 
and shrapnel from Campo de Marte. Captain Brereton had been shot, I was after- 
wards told, through the upper third oi the leg. 

About 3 o'clock p. m. Friday, the 1st of July, and while the bullets were fljang 
about the prosprate bodies of Lieutenant-Colonel Worth, of the Thirteenth Infan- 
try, and Egbert, of the Sixth Infantry, as they lay side by side near the confluence 
of the Aguadores and the San Juan, both wounded, I rode up, and the former, in 
a perfectly cadenced quiet tone, made some inquiries regarding the progi'ess of 
the battle. Neither officer alluded in any way to personal injuries. 

Later Lieut. Carl Koop. Tenth Infantry, same day, walked up to me, after a 
casual greeting to Capt. R. C. Van Vliet, same regiment, and who was trying to 



358 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

walk witli a, bullet wound tlirougli liis leg. The lieutenant's head, chin to fore- 
liead, was bound around with a bloody bandage. The blood was coagulating on 
Iiis chin, but Mr. Koop spent some minutes in making a sketch and map, having 
completed which he asked that the same be hurried over to General Kent, which 
was done later. 

Capt. John B. Kerr, Sixth Cavalry, mounted, and \^nth his wounded arm in a 
sling, hailed me as I rode by, and laughed at something 1 said or did. Among the 
very first of the nnwounded officers on the San Juan Hill, after the retreat of the 
Spanish about 2.30 p.m.. I noted General Hawkins (colonel Twentieth) and Capt. 
A. C. Ducat, Twenty-fourth Infantry. The brigade commander remained stand- 
ing beside his division commander, General Kent, apparently unconcerned under 
fire. Captain Ducat, also erect and similarly exposed, talked without any indica- 
tion of excitement about some of the details of the assault. Captai*i Kennon, 
Sixth United States Infantry, maintained his usual deportment, and, cigarette in 
mouth, quietly discussed things. 

At G.IO o'clock a. m.. 2d July, after I had been keeled over and given a head- 
ache only by some ricochet or missile, the very first man to spring to my relief 
was Mr. A. C. Munoz, volunteer aid to General Kent. Mr. Munoz is the efficient 
acting engineer officer First Division. Later, same date, a group of officers of 
General Kent's staff, also including Cai^tain Markly, commanding Twenty-fourth 
United States Infantry, the grouj), iiicluding General Kent, Aid-de-Camp Cart- 
wright and myself, was seated against Fort San Juan, when a shrapnel broke 
over Mr. Munoz and a lead bullet, tearing through his hat brim, buried itself 
just above the right ear. After a bit I accompanied him to the face of the eastern 
slope and saw that he was started for the First Division hospital, where he yet 
remains . conva.lescing. 

Mr. Munoz was educated in part at the Troy. N. Y., Polytechnic Institute; 
Philadelphian, I believe, by residence, and an architect by vocation. Coming to 
us by assignment, he has won respect and confidence by his abilities as acting- 
engineer officer. It is recommended that he T^e commissioned as lieutenant in 
Col. Eiigene Griff ens or Col. W. S. Gailliard, or other regiment of volunteer 
engineers. At present he receives no pay or allowances from the nation, to 
which he has gratiiitously given his valuable services. Personally he is a most 
estimable gentleman. 

As stated, although Fort San Juan was assaxilted and carried by the First 
Division, Fifth Army Corps, on Friday, July 1, the battle lasted until noon .of 
July 3, when a flag of truce, followed by consuls from Great Britain, Sweden 
and Norway, and other nations, caused a cessation of fire. Riamors are current 
that the Spanish have used explosive small-arm projectiles, but my inquiries have 
failed to d(!velop anj^ siTch. Most projectiles shown me have been pronounced by 
me to be the mushroomed strippings of our jacketed caliber .30 rifle or carbine 
projectile. The vohanteers do not accept my dictum as to samples shown me. 
The sample separately forwarded to the Inspector-General, United States Army, 
is from a blue package, originally containing ten brass cased and brass case shell. 
When the bullet was subjected to heat the lead core fused, withoiit explosion, 
leaving the hard metal shell. Each cartridge has two or three felt wads between 
the black powder and the bullet. By this mail, and in separate packages, I for- 
ward to the Inspector-General of the Army labels from small-arms cartridge 
packages. Also the empty cartridge case, also a clip originally containing five 
cartridges, also two bullets used by the Spanish. They may be interesting to our 
Ordnance Department. 

I ti-ust that the appreciation of my present position \\all excuse and explain the 
injection at this time of a matter personal to myself. Gen. J. Ford Kent, com- 
manding First Division, Fifth Army Corps, is present division commander. He is 



1N8PK( I'lOX REPORTS. 359 

my brotlier-in-law. He says that it is his personal desire that I should continue 
to serve npon his staff. It is certainly my own desire. He has been advised of 
his promotion to the rank of major-general of volunteers. I believe that the 
inspector-general of a major-general may have the rank of lieutenant-colonel. 
My rank is that of major. General Kent officially advises me that he has recom- 
mended me for recognition or advancement by reason of what he is pleased to 
refer to as my conduct under his personal observation at the battle of San Juan. 
Tliis recommendation has passed on to the corps commander. I inclose an ofiicial 
copy of the commendatory report. I very much require the services of a compe- 
tent clerk — one who can mess with the headquarters detachment of giiards, clerks, 
messengers. I also need office stationery of every kind. If a clerk is sent to me, 
he should be equipped with a typewriting machine and stationery for same. I 
have no stationery; need paper, envelopes, etc. 

This report would be incomplete if I failed to make merited mention of Maj. 
M. W. Wood, chief surgeon of this division, and his devoted assistants, Maj. 
R. W. Johnson, surgeon; Asst. Surg. Lieut. Gruy C. W. Godfrey; Acting Asst. 
Surg. Hamilton P. Jones; also Contract Surg. Dr. Fred. J. CJombs. 

Two days before the battle Dr. Wood established the division hospital well to 
the front, and although A^nthout transportations of any kind he managed to bring 
forward the necessary supplies for the equipment of his hospital, the officers and 
men jjacking heavy burdens on their persons and carrying them a distance of sev- 
eral miles. This admirable foresight, coupled with his labor, professional pride, 
and devotion, enabled Chief Surgeon Wood to receive and care for over 900 
wounded who were brought in on the first day's fight. No other division hospital 
was established, so that the care of the woiinded of nearly the entire command 
fell on this one hospital. Dr. Wood and his assistants certainly deserve the com- 
mendation of their superiors and the gratitude of the large niimber of wounded 
who, but for his forethought, might not have been cared for. 

I learn from Chief Surg. M. W. Wood that he considers the following-named 
members of the First Division, Fifth Army Corps, hospital men to be especially 
deser^dng, viz: Hospital Steward Michael Deming, Privates R. A. Woods, Collins, 
Spear, Meyers, and Acting Hospital Steward Fairman. The name of the acting 
hospital steward whom I saw assisting Assistant Surgeon Godfrey under fire the 
1st of July is William A. McGuire. 

As previoiisly reported, i^ursuant to Special Orders No. 18, headquarters Fifth 
Army Corjjs, June 13, 1898, Maj. James H. McLeary, inspector-general, U. S. Vol- 
iinteers, reported to me as assistant to the inspector-general of this division. I 
also reported that the officer named had been given elemental duties, vrith the 
hope rather than the expectation that he would (pialify himself for the discharge 
of some of the duties of his position. I now have the honor to report that Major 
McCleary is not by instinct, exijerience, activity, or aptitude qualified as my 
assistant. If we occupy Santiago de Cuba he might be competent to discharge 
the duties of provost judge. At present he aids with tolerable efficiency in col- 
lecting statistics regarding the sick, and in distributing the mail. 

On SatiTrday, Jiily 2, the firing on both sides was incessant. General Kent was 
in the blockhoixse. Fort San Juan, from 3 o'clock a. m. until sunset. At 6.10 
o'clock a. m. I was keeled over by a ricochet missile; did no harm beyond a 
headache. We heard, July 3, that Admiral Cervera had been captured and his 
fleet destroyed. A night attack by the enemy was repulsed (2d instant). 
Biigadier-General Hawkins was wounded in right foot a little distance from 
where I was. 

Sunday, July 8: At noon Colonel Dorst, assistant adjutant-general, U. S. Volun- 
teers, went with flag of truce in front of our trenches. All firing had ceased. It 
iiad lasted two 'and -one-half days. Formal demand was made by Corps Com- 



360 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 






mander General Shatter , informing- commanding general Spanish forces in San- 
tiago de Cuba that unless he surrendered, the former would be obliged to shell 
Santiago de Cuba. 

"Please instruct," so said General Shaffer's note, "the citizens of all foreign 
countries, and all women and children, they should leave the city before 10 o'clock 
a. m. to-morrow."' 

Foreigii consuls, residents of Santiago de Cuba, I believe, notably Mr. Ramsden, 
consul for Great Britain, in all five in ntimber, returned to our lines at 5 o'clock 
p.m., under flag of truce with Colonel Dorst. Mutual introductions and confer- 
ence between Generals Wheeler and Kent and these five consuls followed; interest- 
ing Init not to be here described. The conference was disturbed by sharpshooting 
Spanish giTeriillas firing from tree tops or other hiding i)laces. About 8 o'clock 
p. m. Maj. Philip Reade and ilag of truce escorted the five consuls to a point 
within the Spanish lines. I saw several dead Spanish soldiers there. 

July 4: Triice continued and I had time to take a bath in a Spanish wash basin, 
and to put on my other suit of imderclothes. Bands played and flags waved at 
noon. 

July 5, Tuesday: Truce continued; quiet day in the trenches; 45 men of the 
First Division on the sick list. This number does not include the wounded. Five 
days later the sick of our diA^ision numbered 214 men. Heat exhaustion and a 
sort of malarial fever prevail. The trench work threatens, so says Asst. Surg. 
Capt. Walter D. McCaw. Medical Department, with Sixth United States Infantry, 
"to drive the men crazy.'' 

From Fort San Juan to Siboney. our base, via the only traveled route, is about 
10 miles. So far as military transportation is concerned there is no other road. 
That road is the route by which the Fifth Army Corps reached this place. It is 
a mere thread riinning through a tangle of undergTOwth and overgrowth. For 
nearly the entire distance the route is through a jungle of cactus, mesquite, and 
many, to me, unknown varieties of shrubs, trees, and chapparal. It follows the 
watershed bordering on swamps. In general topography the region reminds me 
of mountainous Arizona, but here the undergrowth is denser, trees taller, and 
general vegetation more luxiiriant. 

The road to Siboney crosses the Aguadores several times within 3 miles. It 
does not toiich the San Juan River. The Aguadores is a clear, swdft-running 
little stream, averaging a foot in depth and 30 feet in width in ordinary weather. 
It affords an abundant supply of excellent water under normal circumstances. 
At only one point is it bridged. This bridge was built by Major Wells, of the 
Seventy-first New York Infantry Volunteers. I believe the Seventy-first New 
York Volunteers' First Battalion and one battalion of TMrty-fourth Michigan 
Regiment worked eastward from the point broadening the road. Lieutenant 
Brown, United States Engineer Corps, I have also seen engaged in this work. 
No Cubans, so far as I have heard, have assisted. As a resiilt of their combined 
labors, perhaps one-third of the road from here to Silwney has been noted by me 
as passable in dry weather for two army wagons abreast. A rain of twelve 
hours' duration would prevent land communication. The bridge has since been 
swept away by heavy floods. The proper place to build a bridge is below the 
juncture (^f the Aguadores and the San Juan; otherwise several bridges or fords 
will have to be made. 

To convey an idea of the condition of the road, after one of our now daily rains, 
I will state that yesterday (July 13) at 8 o'clock a. m., I rode my horse when the 
streams were only stirrup deep hence to the First Division Hospital, a distance of 
less than 4,200 yards. Five hours later the most of the road was a water course, 
and, at tAvo of the swollen fords, I had to swim my horse across, the current at 
one crossing flooding my saddle seat. I passed infantrymen w^ho could not make 
the stream. Sixteen horses had to be attached to one 3.2-inch gun to get it across, 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 301 

and a wagon train was stalled. The hard bread and siigar atop and aside of the 
pack mules was soaked. Worse than all this, the graves of some of the soldiers 
killed at the battle ot San Jnan and who had been buried on the banks or the low 
grounds of the Agnadores were submerged, and the only stream fi'om which this 
army of American soldiers at present obtain its drinking and cooking water 
mingled with their decomposing remains. I saw a horse bnried twelve days ago 
floating in an eddy near the shore. These pollutions may pass away, but the daily 
rains to which the province is at this season subjected changes not only the color 
but the character of the Aguadores. Officers have some facilities for boiling 
before using this turgid water, but the majority of our men have not. 

Especial stress is laid upon the fact that there is but one road to the seashore 
port of Siboney (Altares). our base of supplies. Further, that that road is for 
only about one-third of its distance vnde enough for two army wagons traveling 
side by side. The fact is suggestive of things not by me to l)e commented on. 

While on the subject of roads. I naturally pass to the siibject of sharpshooters. 
During the battle of San Juan, in sustained losses due to Spanish guerrillas con- 
cealed in trees or elsewhere along our roxite, I saw men so killed or wounded. 
Asst. Surgs. Guy C. M. Godfrey and J. Hamilton Stone, Medical Department, 
United States Army, state that medical officers and members of the hospital 
corps, the latter in some cases bearing litters of wounded men, were so fired upon. 
They wore their brassards. I inclose a report from the latter, dated 11th of July. 
He is surgeon of the Sixteenth United States Infantry. It is also stated that the 
field officers, especially of the Third Brigade. First Division, were singled out by 
these individual guerrillas. It is within my personal observation, also that of 
Major-General Kent and his other staff officers, also of numerous other officers of 
the Fifth Army Corps — say, Major-General Wheeler. Lieutenant-Colonel Dorst, 
assistant adjiitant-general; in fact, of pretty nearly every man in the Fifth Army 
Coiiis— that these sharpshooters select officers as their objectives. As a conse- 
quence, many officers have removed their insignia and dress exactly as the men do. 
A favorite haimt of these sharpshooters is along the line of the road hence to 
Siboney. Wagon masters and pack-train men complain that they are employed to 
"whack" or drive mules, etc., and they say that they prefer not to share the mili- 
tary distinction of being killed or wounded when paid only to fill the humbler 
position. I have seen several stampedes of pack trains, and even detachments of 
armed soldiers also blocked wagon trains, occasioned sometimes with and some- 
times without cause by the warning cry of "sharpshooters" from some point in 
the front. 

This was especially true diiring July 1.2, and 3. After the flag of truce dis- 
play, noon of the 3d of July, the shots of these concealed guerrilla.s became 
less freqiient, although one projectile striick near the group 5.30 o'clock p. m., 
Sunday, July 3, when in front of Major General Wheeler's tent. The group 
included the five foreign consuls from Santiago de Ciiba and Generals Wheeler 
and Kent. It was then that Colonel Dorst emphatically called attention of all to 
the shot, adding that if captured the guerrillas should not be treated as prisoners 
of war. Captain Markley, Twenty-fourth Infantry, found in Fort San Juan 
after its capture a commission or warrant, part printed, i)art written, issued by 
some Spanish official, duly signed and formally executed, appointing a named 
person as guerrilla. These sharpshooters for some days occasioned a feeling of 
terrorism, and at one time it was, I hear, under consideration to create a corps of 
sharpshooters, two to be selected from each battalion, under an officer to be 
selected not merely with reference to his ability to shoot accurately, but alsf> 
with reference to his experience and aptitude as a hunter, knowledge of wood- 
craft, patience, etc. 

It was in-oposed that these sharpshooters should be hidden along the i-oad, in 
pits or tree tops, very much as still hunters post themselves when in the haunts 



3G2 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

or la'-go [?ame. for the sole purpose of ridding the earth of these assassinators of 
wounded imen, sick soldiers, hospital corps men. snrgeons. or other neutrals. If 
the sharpshooting is resumed when the present truce is terminated, the responsi- 
bility on the part of the Spanish Government seems to be fixed. 

The press and Associated Press correspondents and reporters who mess together 
obtain, they say, table luxuries and many necessities from Port Antonio, a place 
within twelve hours' voyage from Siboney. The sales of subsistence stores to oflS- 
cers by oiir subsistence department are restricted to articles of the ration. If 
measures coiild be taken whereby our subsistence department could inii'chase at 
Port Antonio articles for the improvement of our table fare, such articles to be 
afterwards sold to ofi&cers, it would be c)f appreciable benefit. 

The purchase of short-handled hand axes for issue to troops and use in ciitting 
through wire fences, and for other jjurjioses, is also recommended. Wire entan- 
glements i)lay an important i^art in Cuba. Our canteens should be covered with 
felt and wool. Water can be made cool after exposure to a draft in the shade or 
after nightfall provided the canteen is protected as recommended. Canvas cov- 
ers will not materially lower the temperature of water. Many are ignorant of 
the fact that if a suspended canteen filled with water is left imcorked at night 
the temperature of the water next morning will be lower than if the canteen had 
been corked. Joints of the bamboo stalk are here somewhat used by natives and 
by our owii men as water holders. The water at first tastes of the bamboo, and 
the pith floats annoyingly. 

The order is sometimes given that • • three days" rations will be carried. " It is 
imxn-acticable for an infantryman. e(|uipped as he has to be, to carry three days' 
rations in the present regulation haversack. The Thirty-fourth Michigan Volun- 
teer Infantry, now a part of this command — Fifth Army Corps — reached Fort San 
Juan July 2. The regiment was practically without rations on the following day 
because many of its members threw away a x^ortion of the three days' rations 
issued to the organization at Siboney. The teamsters and Cubans fell heir to 
these rations. 

The First Division, Fifth Army Corps, needs clothing. No article of raiment 
can be mentioned that our soldiers do not need. Aside from the fact that few 
articles of clothing have been issued to the units of this corps since the organi- 
zation left their respective posts, the discomforts of the men are increased by 
reflection upon the fact that on the 2oth ultimo they left, inirsuant to orders, 
underclothing and other clothing aboard ship, where, for aught w^e know, these 
much-needed articles yet remain. The officers are in the same fix. Next after 
clothing, the following things are needed, viz: Camp equipage, particularly tents, 
ovens, Buzzacott or other stoves, camp kettles, full rations, and matches. The 
safety matches get pudgy, and the sandy part of the box gets wet in this climate. 

July 14: I have this day talked with the company quartermaster-sergeants of 
most of the companies of the Ninth. Thirteenth, and Twenty-fourth regiments 
of infantry. Third Brigade, Brig. Gen. Adelbert Ames commanding. The bri- 
gade yesterday was short in the following articles and amounts of subsistence 
scores, \az: 464 pounds meat, 270 pounds sugar. 64 pounds coffee. No responsi- 
bility for this deficiency in rations attaches to Capt. E. F. Taggart, commissary, 
U. S. Volunteers, this division. Army wagons and pack mules are loaded at 
Siboney, which is 10 or 11 miles east of here. The subsistence stores are 
".jobbed"— that is. handled by middlemen before they get here. In explicit 
terms, the wagons and pack mules are all unloaded at a point less than 4,500 
yards east of here. At this point the stores are re-sorted, reloaded, and finally 
sent to the command for distribution to brigade commissaries of subsistence. 
My statement is based upon reports and allegations made by Capt. E. F. Taggart 
and by Capt. U. G. Alexander, assistant quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers, chief 



INSPECTION K'KI'OHTS. 363 

quartermaster liero until relieved by Maj. Morris C. Hutchins day before yester- 
day. He lias creditably filled the functions of chief quartermaster of this divi- 
sion. There are no troops in rear of this line. This is the fighting line, and it 
is here that rations are needed, although only three hours' horseback ride from 
Siboney, our base. There has never been a time since tliis division left Siboney, 
Monday. 27th ultimo, that rations sufficient for twenty-four liours in advance of 
the time that the stores were needed for actual consumption have accumulated 
here. The causes have been, in part, insufficient transportation, a single road, 
and what in Cuba is called the rainy season. The men know this and do not 
complain. They need daily, rice, beans, tomatoes, but do not get them. Per- 
haps the greatest privation at first was tobacco, then soap. Officers and men in 
the Thirteenth United States Infantry told me to-day, July 14, that some men 
were lousy; the vermin having, perhaps, been imported from the forecastle of 
the transports that carried them from Port Tampa to Siboney. 

The first fatal case of yellow fever was day liefore yesterday reported by Chief 
Surg. M. W. Wood. On July 13 Chief Surg. M. W. Wood placed Dr. Ham- 
ilton P. Jones in an isolated yellow fever quarantine camp. He now, July 
14, has seven or eight cases of yellow fever iinder his care. On the 14th 
instant Maj. Gen. Nelson A. Miles personally told General Kent to order an 
immediate investigation, and report to be made as to whether any cases of yellow 
fever existed in the First Division, as, if so, the regiment so afflicted should be 
isolated from the rest of the command. Reports were duly made to General 
Kent that no cases existed. The regiments so reporting were the Ninth, Thir- 
teenth, Twenty-fourth, Second, Tenth, and Twenty-first United States Infantry. 

The road from Fort San Juan to Siboney is lined with refugees from Santiago 
de Cuba. From our right, where the Sixth and Sixteenth United States Infantry 
and the Seventy-first Ne.w York Volunteer Infantry are, comes the report that 
Spanish courtesans, well dressed and good-looking, but without means of subsist- 
ence, are affiliating with our soldiers, gladly accepting hard bread in payment for 
favors. Apprehension exists that the dalliance of Mars and Venus will be ft)l- 
lowed by treatment of Mercury. 

The poison oak and the cowitch plants exist here under different names. Maj. 
E. A. Garhngton, inspector-general, U. S. Army, has suffered severely by contact 
with the former; so have the officers and many of the men. Thanks to Mr. A. C. 
Munoz, volunteer aide to Major Kent, and to Chief Siirg. M. W. Wood, Medical 
Department U. S. Army, we are now able to identify these poisonous plants, and 
measures have been taken to familiarize the men with their appearance. 

Lieut. William Brooke, Fourth United States Infantry, performs the duties of 
ordnance officer of the camp; at least he has handled and distributed the small- 
arms ammtmition. He says that 13,000,000 caliber .30 and caliber .45 cartridges 
were brought to Cuba by the transports which left Port Tampa June 1 3. Each of 
the 15,500 combatants carried, he says, 100 rounds. General Order No. 5, Fifth 
Army Corps, Tampa, May 31, 1898 (General Shaffer), contained the following 
paragraph, viz: " The Battalion of Engineers, the infantry, and cavalry will be 
supplied with 500 rounds ammunition per man." 

After the battles of Caney had been fought, July 1 . and after the First Division, 
Fifth Army Corps, had assaulted and captured Fort San Juan, same date. Lieu- 
tenant Brooke's pack train brought tip to tlie firing line 98,000 rounds of rifle 
ammunition. These cartridges were distributed that night, 40,000 rounds going 
to General Kent's division. More small-arms ammunition was subsecpiently 
brought up by Lieutenant Brooke, who now, the IGth of July, states that the num- 
ber of cartridges expended by the Fifth Army Corps, excluding General Wh(!eler"s 
dismounted cavalry division, aggregates 30.005,000 rounds. The Gatling guns 
fired 24,000 rounds, so Captain Parker, the officer in charge, says. On the 1st of 



11 



3G4 INVESTIOATIOX OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



July from one spot on the west side of the Agnadores River, Spanish prisoners 
have stated that the enemy was filled with consternation by the incessant impact 
upon their lines of projectiles from our machine gnns. 

The volunteer regiments soon learned to prefer the United States magazine 
model 1893, and subsequent make, rifles to the caliber .45 Springfield 70/500 arm, 
and eagerly sought to exchange the latter for the former arm. During the trench 
fighting, lasting all day of July 3 and until noon of July 3, the volunteers learned 
that the visible smoke from these Springfield rifles drew the flre of the enemy. 
They relaxed their own fire in consequence. On July 4 the Seventy-first Regi- 
ment, New York Volunteer Infantry, had exchanged 311 of their Spring-fields for 
a like number of regulation arms, formerly the property of dead, sick, or wounded 
men. They were not permitted to retain them. 

Sharpshooting has now ceased for several days. Volunteers are heard occasion- 
ally shooting at the vriltures, useful as scavengers, like the land cra;bs. Some of 
our men have found in the tree tops seats, foot rests, indicating the places where 
the Spanish guerrilla sharpshooters had lived. The loss of many of our officers is 
attributed to those sharpshooters. 

During the assault upon and battle of San Juan some of our officers wore their 
swords. I have been informed that the regimental commander of the Sixth 
United States Infantry ordered the officers of that regiment to then wear their 
swords. I renew recommendation made in a previous report at this time and in 
this connection. It is this: That oflSeers have worked in yellow silk, or white 
silk, on the shirt collar insignia indicative of rank, arm of service, or corps. A 
shirt so marked will wash. If the device be worked in gold or silver bullion, or 
be a metallic attachment, it caji not be washed. I also recommend that these be 
required to be worn by all officers below the rank of brigadier-general on the left 
side of the hat, device showing uniformly not only the arm of service and organ- 
ization and rank of the wearer, but also his corps, division, and brigade. Identi- 
fication is necessary even in Cuba. The device should not be cons])icuous. 

I append notes of one day's inspection, made by me July 13. of the Nineteenth, 
Thirteenth, Twenty-fourth, Tenth, and Twenty-first regiments. United States 
Infantry: Men in the trenches. Lieut. Louis B. Lawton, Third Brigade (Gen. 
Adelbert Ames), reports shortage in rations issued the 14th instant, to-morrow, 
as follows: Coffee, 64 pounds short; sugar, 370 pounds short: meat, 464 pounds 
short; no tomatoes; rice and beans are an unknown quantity. Brigade received 
yesterday an as yet unreported number of recruits, arriving, as usual, without 
rations. 

The brigade commissary is anxious to know how many additional mouths and 
bellies he is expected to fill. Referred to assistant adjutant-general of the brigade 
verbally. Capt. T. S. McCalet. Company F. Ninth Infantry, also John M. Sig- 
worth. Company D, same regiment, complain did not receive any sugar yester- 
day. Say men are suffering all over the brigade from lack of rice, beans, and 
dried fruit; only had rice once this month; willing to jnirchase at any price. 
Only tobacco for one company allowed at a time for the entire brigade. 

No camp kettles; men have to boil water in tin cans. Referred complaints 
verbally, as before. General Ames will Avi-ite about it. Short of stationery; need 
paper, envelopes, etc. Camp rumor has it that the hospital ship State of Texas, 
now in harbor at Siboney, only 11 miles from here, is giving away ice and luxu- 
ries to all applicants; also that, as a precaution against the spread of yellow fever. 
General Miles ordered the burning of the town of Siboney; that all mail is fumi- 
gated, owing to (piarantine necessities. 

Chaplain Henry Swift, from Fort D. A. Russell, Wyo.. has just walked here, 
a weary walk from Siboney, to make request to be assigned to duty in the yellow- 
fover hospital. Granted by General Ames. Sick: Capt. B. H. Oilman, Thirteenth 
Infantry, diarrhea; also Lieut. W. L. Simpson, contact with poison oak. 



&- 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 365 

Conference wHth Lieut. M. E. Saville, Tenth Infantry, who has been designated 
)y the corps commander totake charge of mail at Siboney intended for tliis army, 
ieferred him to Maj. James H. McLeary, First Division lieadquarters, who has 
;j|jeen verbally dii-ected to facilitate the mail business at the terminal. 

Men cleverly use shelter tents, branches of the royal palms, and other Jeafy 
screens as protection against sun and rain in the trenches. Instances of utiliza- 
^g;ion of zinc roofing, etc., from abandoned blockhouses are numerous audingen- 
ij^ous. The intrenchments of the Spanish, constructed for the defense of Fort San 
nan prior to the assault and capture of said fort, deemed impregnable, are deeper 
,nd narrower than ours. In depth they are breast high; bottom width, 20 inches, 
lop, 28 inches. Our intrenchments excavated since then on the same hill are not 
lo deep, but admit of a man's taking a horizontal ijosition, whereas the enemy 
Hows only vertical position. Spanish have no banquette; ours have, and yester- 
day we added sand bags. Some of our men sleep on the shelf, their rifles resting 
n forked sticks, sufficiently raised to clear the damp earth. The Spaiiish had at 
st no earthwork in front of their trenches. Some of our rifle pits have dead 
[space between pits for protection from raking fire. Spanish could only leave 
iheii- intrenchments by climbing over, or at the ends of trench; ours admit of 
safer ingress and egress. 

Complaint is made that Army Regulation 1251 is not observed. Suggestion is 
made that three-quarter and six-quarter Jieef can be hei-eafter purchased, instead 
of four-quarter, eight-quai-ter, etc. This because the amount suggested, tlu-ee- 
fourths of a pound, is the allowance for one day, and the size of the containing 
package should correspond to the allowance. The distribution of rations to a 
squad would be facilitated by the style of packing. 

It is reported that Dr. La Garde, Medical Department, has 50 cases of yellow 
fever iinder his care at Siboney. 

July 14, 1898: My inspection this date. Third Brigade and two regiments of 
Second Brigade (Ames and Pearson ), shows that the daily issue per man is 2 spoon- 
fxrlsof roasted coffee. U pounds of sugar, 14 omices of liard bread, and one 2-pound 
can of tomatoes to each 7 men. No hominy, beans, rice, soap, or candles. Some 
of the men are. infected with vermin, possibly imported from the forecastle of 
the transports that carried them from Port Tampa to Siboney. All possible san- 
itary precautions are taken. Sinks are removed from the slope of San Juan Hill 
to the bottom lands, 800 yai-ds away. There is no odor. Grounds are policed 
j each morning. What shelter tents there are are daily moved, so as to let the sun 
i dry the ground where the officers and men have slept. 

Blankets are aired on bushes. One company commander has two caini) kettles. 
His men drink boiled water. He sends a detail one-half mile to get water from 
the San Juan River. Then they have to carry the water up the San Juan Hill, a 
severe climb, after wliich the water is boiled and the men's canteens tilled. 

The Twenty-fourth United States Infantry does not possess a camp kettle, 
neither does the Sixteenth United States Infantry. There are only two camp ket- 
tles in the Tenth United States Infantry. When the men receive their uuground 
coffee they pulverize it in their tin cups, using the butt end of a hunting knife as 
a pestle. The operation is tiresome, requires patience, and ends in the destruc- 
tion of the tin cups. The men have nothing to grind their coffee in. All of the 
tin tomato cans and meat cans ai-e used to boil water in. The men have no camp 
or cooking utensils. A heavy percentage of the time of each individual soldier 
is absorbed in cooking his own meals. It is recommended that ground coft't t: be 
issued to troops, situated as the command is. As a rule, officers are less well pi o- 
Added for than the men. This because, under the oi'der of the corps commander, 
they were not permitted to take valises, etc. , with them when they left the trans- 
ports. It was expected that necessary baggage of officers would follow them ashore. 
In some cases this was done, but plunderers looted baggage. No officer of the 



366 INVESTIGATION ()F CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

First Division staff carried away from Siboney any blankets, poncho, mackintosh, 
hammock, shelter tent, canteen, haversack or rations other than that packed Tipon 
his horse or slung about his person. When the Seventy-first New York Volun- 
teer Infantry left Siboney. members of the regiment carried only ammunition, 
haversack, rifle, one-half shelter tent, poncho, and three days' rations. No blan- 
kets have since been received. 

Many of the details mentioned in this report are matters of jjersonal observa- 
tion and not of official complaint. Col. John F. Weston, of the Subsistence 
Department, is a rustler, and the management of affairs has been zealously con- 
ducted by him in person. This was apparent at Tampa, also at Port Tampa, Fla. 
Tlio same indefatigable energy and supervision has been manifested in Cuba. In 
tliis I can bear personal testimony. I understand that the transportation of the 
Fifth Army Corps embraced 114 army wagons. The allotment of transportation 
to the First Division (Kenfs) tlnis far has been one army wagon. Nine regiments , 
have had to be suf)plied with subsistence stores by that one wagon, aided by uncer- 1 
tain pack trains hauling from Siboney under the control of citizen piackers, now 
reported to be on a strike. 

Each morning our commissary, Capt. E. F. Taggart, and the equally energetic 
hustler, Capt. U. G. McAlexander, acting quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers, get 
a o'clock breakfast and are off and away for supijly pur})oses. 

Major-General Kent was excei)tional in continuously exposing himself, same 
as the men in the trenches, during the battle of San Juan, July 1,2, and 3, and 
during Sunday. 10th. He has been noted by his inspections of his lines and of his 
command during the truce period. It is not invidious to say that no other gen- 
eral officer has been so prominently at the front as he. 

On Jtily 15 Maj. Benjamin F. Pope, medical chief surgeon. Fifth Corps, 
recommended as follows: "Commanders of all trooijs in which cases of fever are 
occurring move their camps on to new ground, even if it is only 50 yards, and 
burn over the old groimd with grass or wood; that all grass bedding and rub- 
bish be burned frequently; that tents be taken down and sxtnned: that no more 
men be kept in the trenches or man earthworks than is absolutely necessary for 
their military protection; that the quartermaster and commissary grounds be 
policed and all foul spots be burned over; that men take off their underclothing 
and sun and air it, or, if they can, boil as frequently as possible; all bathing and 
washing in streams which furnish drinking water will be done between 5 p. m. 
and 7 p. m." 

Com?/; ('71 f.— There is not fuel enough on San Juan ridge to cook with. Grass 
will not burn. There are no camp utensils in which to boil water. One stream 
furnishes all of the drinking water. The line of trenches from extreme right to 
left is fully 5 miles long. Until the truce the men could not bathe anywhere; 
they were needed in the trenches. Camp cooking utensils are imperatively 
needed. The scarcity of blankets is explained in part by the fact that some of 
the commands brought none, others piled them by the roadside for the assairlt 
and never recovered them. Some were used to make litters for wounded or sick 
sent to the rear. The prevailing question is now assault or siege. Which? 

Two heavy batteries of siege artillery guns were brought with the expedition- 
ary force during the invasion by the Fifth Army Corps. They are not at the front. 
One is said to be on the railroad near Siboney; the seven remaining siege guns are 
believed to be in the holds of the transports. The popguns of the four batteries 
of light artillery that are here, 3.2-inch, are not adequate; have not been nearer 
the fighting line than they now are, viz, 2,600 yards to the rear. They are 
reversing the old adage of artillery to the front; here artillery is and has been to 
the rear, and the (pie.stion is asked. Where are the siege guns? 

During the 2d and 3d of July, also on the evening of "the 10th, the six guns of the 



IN8PECTIOX KKi'oirrs. 367 

Spanish, said to be Krupp t?iins, were conspicuously superior to our lii>-ht 3.2 
light batteries. Eleven men of the Sixteenth Infantry were put out of action at 
one time by one of these projectiles. Report has been ma(l<> to General Kent 
that oxen are hauliuK siege guns to an elevation to the left of our left (Greneral 
Bates's provisional division, including the Third and Twentieth United States 
Infantry), so as to rake our trenches by the flank. 

A cavalry officer indicated to me the position of the brigade gun, opposite one 
of the cavalry brigades, and of the havoc it had wrought. He said that it was 
earth-buried to the muzzle. Siege guns should be confronted with siege guns. 
As we have siege guns in Cuba, and have had for nineteen days past, even the 
men in the trenches are commenting on their absence. At present they are as 
useless as an equal weight of old iron. 

It is stated by certain newspapers, or Associated Press correspondents, that a 
rigid censorship is exercised -over the castle which connects the seashore near 
Siboney with the United States. We of the First Division claim that two 
battles were fought on July 1. One was the battle of El Caney, 4 miles from 
Fort San Jiian. Our troops then and there engaged embraced the commands of 
General Lawton (Second Division) and the dismounted cavalry, under Major- 
General Wheeler, General Chaffee, and others. The other battle, that of Fort 
San Juan, was of longer duration. It lasted two and a half days. The First 
Division— General Kent's division— consisting of Hawkins's brigade (Sixth 
United States Infantry, Sixteenth United States Infantry, and Seventy-first New 
York Volunteer Infantry), Pearson's brigade (Tenth United States Infantry and 
Twenty-first United States Infantry), Wikoff's brigade (Ninth United States 
Infantry, Thirteenth United States Infantry, and Twenty-fourth United States 
Infantry), assaulted and captured Fort San Juan July 1. and successfully held 
the hill during the following day and until the flag of truce terminated the shoot- 
ing, 3d of Jiily, noon. In this heroic effort the First Division lost as follows: 
Killed, officers, 12; men, 87; wounded, officers. 3G; men, 561; missing, 62. 

The strength of the First Division, morning of July 1, was 262 officers and 5,09.5 
effective men. These losses from death in the hospitals or from the number of those 
reported missing can not now be stated by me. Should the enemy surrender, 
capitulate, evacuate, or be driven from the entrenchments now held by the Span- 
ish about Campo de Marte, it is probable that the official names of El Caney and 
F(irt San Juan will be merged into the name of the battle of Santiago de Cuba. 

Dr. Hamilton P. Jones, immune expert, officially reports that he now has 46 
yellow-fever patients in the hospital, all soldiers from the front. Six have ter- 
minated fatally. I have now, he says, over 200 cases in Hospital Siboney. Cap- 
tain Noble, Sixteenth United States Infantry, is reported to have yellow-fever 
symptoms. Dr. Jones says that moribund cases arrive daily, middle forenoon, and 
die before sunset. Dr. J. Hamilton Stone, Medical Department United States 
Army, surgeon Sixteenth United States Infantry, states that a deplorable defi- 
ciency of needful changes and medicines exist in that organization. 

Col. H. A. Theaker, Sixteenth United States Infantry, commanding First Bri- 
gade, also Capt. John Newton, regimental quartermaster, states there is not a 
camp kettle in the regiment. Every day letters or personal appeal is made for 
eqiTipage for camp use, for clothing, for vegetables, " for bowel openers. " Reme- 
dies for constipation and also remedies for dysentery are called for. Gen. A. R. 
Chaffee suffers from dysentery. 

Tuesday, July 13: Sick list this date is as follows: First Brigade— Sixth United 
States Infantry, 17; Sixteenth United States Infantry, 1«; Seventy-first New 
York Infantry Volunteers, 89. The effective strength of the respective regiments 
as named is, in order, 310, 816, and 780. Second Brigade, sick— Second Infantry, 
19; Tenth Infantry, 13; Twenty-first Infantry, 13. In the Third Brigade the 



368 INVES'l'KiATloN OF CONDUCT OF WAR WrrH SPAIN. 

Ninth Infantry lids 9 sick, the Thirteenth '6, and the Twenty-fourth Infantry 7. 
The causes of sickness are not speculative; they are due to facts epitomized after 
a consideration of the following: 

In April, 1898, four-fifths of the infantry and a majority of the cavalry forces 
of the permanent military forces of the United States were distributed in States 
and Territories, under climatic conditions, environments, duties, etc., varying 
very nmcli from those prevalent or existing at Tampa, Fla., Mobile, Ala., and 
other places south of what is generally termed the southern latitude. 

The infantry and cavalry combatants were in the ijrime of life, of strength, 
and inured by physical exercise and training to endure. They had had field 
exercises, practice marches, and some had had Indian caunjaigns. They Avere 
ofBcered by men who had had war experience, and consequently knew how to take 
care of their men. From about the 20th of April to the 8th of May this army of 
more than 15.000 men were at Tampa. Some enervation resulted. The heat was 
a novelty. The night conditions were novel; the water, food, shelter, and duties 
were novel. During the period from May 8th to about the 34th the troops were 
aboard the transports, sea voyaging, and the sameness of rations made the men 
tired. 

After landing in Cuba and getting into shai^e, under conditions all of which 
were novel, the command marched over a trail through a dense jungle to this 
vicinity. Three days' rations per man were iioiriinally carried. The men had 
nauseated upon the rations furnished, and their reserve strength was drawn upon. 

Then came a desperate battle with a foe possessed of the advantages of defensive 
position and demonstrated bravery. Daily rains prevailed. Our men had to 
fight desperately in order to prevail. Then came trench work. Many officers 
had been i)ut out of action. Men missed leaders who had been in daily touch 
with them. The desperate fight of July 1 told heavily upon their muscles and 
nerves. Night alarms dejjrived them of necessary rest. The reaction following 
the enemy's assault July 1 , and the fighting of the former the next day. was 
inevitable. 

They dug their own trenches, slept in them; endured the blazing, torrid noon- 
day sun; the unvarying rain storros each afternoon., and the chill night damps 
without shelter, saye siich as a dog tent afforded. Some had blankets but no 
ponchos; some had the reverse; some had given up both to shroud the dead or to 
litter tlxe wounded and sick, and all this time the quantity and quality of their 
nutriment was decreasing or deteriorating. Their reserve strength was exhausted 
fortunately not so entirely as the Spanish: l>ut no earthly men could fail to show 
marked evidence of privation and hardship. 

Fighting famine and fever extorted from even such a man as Col. Theodore 
Roosevelt the statement: "Twenty-five per cent of my Rough Riders can't carry 
a pail of water from the creek to the trenches. No man can decry me or my regi- 
ments, but we must accede to the next proposition from the enemy." One char- 
acteristic of our soldiers is their unwillingness to go upon the sick report. The 
regulars do duty when really not fit to perform it. but they do duty all the same. 
Regiments have a pride in maintaining on paper a small percentage of sick. 
Every organization has a sort of midway class of convalescents and half -.sick 
men who are excused from the performance of duty in the trenches because of 
physical disabilities, l)ut who do not appear as sick. Pride and grit keep some 
from letting the medical department know how little strength they have left. 

Our water is obtained from the- San Juan River. The stream is m6re than one- 
half mile away. The absence of camp kettles has been reported. Men drink a 
great deal more water in Cuba than in the United States." The capacity of can- 
teens is limited by the size of the canteen. Stalwart men go thirsty because they 
shrink from the physical exertion involved in walking downhill 800 yards or more 
and then staggering back witn a load of filled canteens. Aching heads and flushed 



INSPECTION UEPOUTS. 369 

faces iire relieved by water, but the fluid application is a costly one. Soldiers 
stagger into any kind of shade, lie prostrate, and gasp. Dr. Walter McCaw did 
not exaggerate some days ago when he said to me, " Men go crazy after prolonged 
exposure in the trenches." 

Under orders from the corps commander the Second and Third brigades have 
recently changed camping grounds, moving from li to o miles to the right, occu- 
pying the line vacated by General Lawton's division, the one the Second formerly 
had.' 

Three army wagons were allowed for this transfer of the impedimenta and for 
,the transfer of the sick. Of a command of about 2,000 men. two trips had to be 
made by each wagon. The mules were played out. due in part to short forage or no 
forage, and it was mid afternoon before the new camp was completed. General 
Ames, commanding Third Brigade, called attention to the exhausted condition of 
his men and the deplorable condition of his sick. He has but three small tents in 
his entire brigade, and humanely sheltered in his own tent some of the Tenth and 
Thirteenth United States Infantry, insane temporarily from heat, exhaustion , and 
the fatigue of a 3-mile march. In the United States the same men could march 
and had marched much greater distances at this season Avithout suffering. The 
sick are in one sense an incumbrance, and it is suggested that they be transferred 
to the seashore and placed aboard ships or transports. Two purposes would be 
secured by this— the ineffective would be gotten rid of, and theii- chances of 
recovery facilitated by proper food, medical treatment, no exposure to the daily 
rains and deathly night chills, not to mention a salubrious air and no exposure to 
epidemics 

It is understood tliat the hospital ship The State of Texas, under the control, it 
' is said, of the association represented by Miss Clara Barton, is loaded with sup- 
plies exclusively for the recoucentrados. Lieutenants Koehler and Lawton. of 
'General Ames"s staff, recently asked for some canned pease, jelly, etc., for the con- 
sumption of the sick men of the Third Brigade, and who craved such. Report is 
made to General Kent that they were refused stores of any kind for the purpose 
indicated. Mr. Koehler forcibly represented that the benevolent people of the 
United States would be glad to know that a minimum of their bounty was shared 
by sick soldiers of the United States Army. He then helped himself to some of 
the supplies named and turned the stores over to our sick. 

Dr. W. W. Calhoun, regimental surgeon of the Ninth United States Infantry, 
says that no case of yellow fever has come under his observation. He has, he 
says, in camp several cases of malarial remittent, or. if I (piote him correctly, 
malarial intermittent, fever. Dr. M. ^Y. Wood. Medical Department, United States 
Army, say that we have yellow fever in the trenches. Dr. Hamilton P. Jones, 
immune expert, is in charge of the isolated yellow-fever hospital located near 
where General Shaffer "s headciuarters formerly were. He reports several deaths 
from yellow fever, moribund before they were turned over to him. Mr. C. F. 
Barrett, secretary of the Cuban Department, Army Charities Commission, repre- 
senting here the International Committee of the Young Men's Christian Asso- 
ciation, says that a residence of one year in Santiago has familiarized him with 
the aspect of yellow fever. INIr. Barrett tells General Kent that yellow fever now 
exists in the Seventy-first Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry, and that 
cases visit the tent under his charge, which tent is also a gathering place for men 
of other regiments needing stationery, etc. 

It seems a small matter, but if some quick-growing garden seeds had been 
planted in some cultivated plot of ground, after the heavy fighting was over, such 
things as radishes could have l)een raised and greatly enjoyed. The dearth of 
green groceries is great: the fertility of this soil is wonderfiil. 

Ihavenot heretofore spoken much about the barbed-wire fences, and barbed-wire 
entanglements of the Spanish. They are exasperatiugly common. In addition to 
7833— VOL. I 24 



370 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

barricades of trendies filled with earth, which blockaded our way through tlie 
narrow streets of Santiago, barbed wire was crisscrossed in many places. The 
Spaniards have shown themselves adepts in this kind of defense, and I reiterate 
my former recommendation, that each infantry soldier be issued a short-handled 
ax, not a hatchet, but an ax, to be slung and worn over his hip. The metallic 
portion of the axe should be sheathed in leather; the helve should not be. 

During fifteen days, viz, July 5 to 20, the aggregate of sick in the First Division, 
Fifth Army Corps (General Kent's), has increased alarmingly. On the 5th tlie 
aggregate was 34; on the 10th it was 213; on the 15th the total was 194; on the 
20th the sick list summed up 814, twenty-three of whom were officers. The fol- 
lowing is a tabulated statement in detail. The total sick do not include the 
absent sick or wounded. The other figures represent the effectives only; they do 
not include neutrals, band men, other noncombatants, or recruits without arms: 





July 5. 


July 10. 


July 15. 


July 20. 


Command. 


Effective 
present. 


o 


Efl'ective 
present. 


'-7i 


Effective 
present. 


Sick. 


EtVec.tive 
present. 


Sick. 




Offi- 
cers. 


Men. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Men. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Men. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Men. 


Offi- 
cer.s. 


Men. 


Offi- 
cers. 


Men. 


First Brigade 


73 
71 


1,653 
1 aiO 


'\ 


76 


1,627 
1,376 
1,208 


99 
95 
19 


75 
60 
52 


1,954 
1,575 
1,161 


4 


125 


67 

55 
27 


1,702 

1,308 

562 


12 
6 
5 


366 
283 


Third Brigade. . . 
Total 


.52 1 5; 136 


10 1 50 





05 


145 


196 1 4, 129 

1 


34 191 


4,211 


213 


187 


4,690 


4 


190 


149 


3,572 


23 


794 



Of the sick in the Third Brigade, 80, representing six companies, are in the 
Thirty-fourth Regiment Michigan Volunteer Infantry. 
Very resi)ectfully, your obedient servant, 

Philip Reade, 
Major and Insjxctor-General, First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 
July 21, 1898. 



Headquarters First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 

In the Field, near Santiago de Cuba, July 19, 1S9S. 
The Inspector-General United States Army, 

Washington, D. C. 
Sir: I have the honor to continue itinerary and report previously .submitted, as 
follows: The Twenty-fourth Infantry was detached from the division and sent to 
the yellow fever district at Siboney about July 14. So the above statistics repre- 
sent, less the 80 Michigan Volunteers, the sick in the following-named regiments, 
viz: Sixth United States Infantry, Sixteenth United States Infantry. Seventy-first 
New York Volunteer Infantry, Tenth United States Infantry, Second United States 
Infantry, Twenty-first United States, Ninth United States, and Thirteenth United 
States Infantry. Maj. M. W. Wood, Medical Department, United States Army, 
chief surgeon First Division, Fifth Army Corps, says that the Seventh United 
States Infantry (Second Division, General Lawton"s) has about 200 men on sick 
report. He also says that First Lieut. Daniel L. Tate, Troop F, Third United 
States Cavalry, was yesterday placed in an army wagon, sick, side by side with a 
yellow fever patient, and in such proximity sent to a hospital. Such contact 
increases the chances of infection. If our ambulances are infected through being 
indiscriminately used for transportation of the sick not afflicted with yellow 
fever, likewise for the conveyance of unfortunates who are, the spread of the 
epidemic will l)ecome more general than would be the case if a proper supervision 
and (luarantiue was exercised. Dr. Wood names Capt. George J. Newgardner, 



INSPECTION REl'ORTS. 371 

Medical Department, as having also been placed when sick in an ambulance side 
by side with a " snspect " in this connection. At time of writing both of General 
Kenfs aids. Lieutenants Cartwright and Jackson, are feverish. Maj. A. C. 
Shari)e, adjutant-general of this division, has been sick for four days with some 
kind of a fever, but fulfills all of his office duties. The general desire is that we 
may be relieved from duty upon gi'ound that has been camped upon for three 
weeks in a conquered province and permitted to change our base to virgin soil. 
Since the capitulation the Spanish claim rations for 13,000 soldiers. Anent that 
word •• capitulation,"' history tells us that in October, 1777, Burgoyne and his fol- 
lowers surrendered at Saratoga, set the precedent term for English annals l)y 
claiming that the invasion of New York, capture of Ticonderoga, defeat at Ben- 
nington, etc., was a '' capitiilation," not a surrender, etc. 

On the 14th of July, 1898, General Toral, succeeding General Linares (wounded) , 
proposed a military commission to arrange terms of capitulation, and General 
Escario was deputed to arrange terms, etc. 

On the 16tli of July, Cori^s Commander Gen. W. R. Shaffer, wrote to General 
Kent as follows: " Have just received word from General Toral that the ' Spanish 
Government has approved capitulation, ' " 

Since the 17th of July we have been feeding 12,000 Spaniards. That evening I 
asked Col. Jules Cuevas, chief of administration for the surrendered Spanish 
under Generals Toral and Escario, to file the next morning with General Kent a 
return showing the organizations comi>rising the 13.000 soldiers, and giving the 
numerical strength of each regiment. This Gen. Jules Cuevas promised, but up 
to date he has failed to fulfill it. The truth probably is that he is afraid to tell 
the truth officially, lest it conflict with the pay rolls furnished the home Govern- 
ment or conflict with verbal statements regarding the nixmber of prisoners who 
are rationed by us. 

In Santiago de Cuba. Governor's Palace, 

Sunday, July 17, 1S98. 

On this date and day the national flag of the United States was raised over the 
governor's palace of the ancient capital of Cuba. Such of us as were privileged 
to be present and assist in the formality will not be able to forget our impressions, 
although we may not be able to adequately describe our feelings. The following- 
named officers formed one line on the western sloi)e of Fort San Juan Hill, viz: 
Maj. Gens. William E.. Shaffer, Joe "Wheeler, J. Ford Kent, Henry W. Lawton, 
John C. Bates; Brig. Gens. "William Ludlow, Samuel S. Sumner. Wallace Ran- 
dolph, Adelbert Ames, Leonard Wood, and Chambers McKibben. The statt's of 
the generals named formed in order of rank of the generals. This formation 
brought me in the third line. There were seven or eight lines behind me. In all. 
there were aboiTt 93 staff: officers present, all moiinted. Mr. Thompson, Associated 
Press reporter, was there too, with his camera, and Sylvester Scovill, World 
reporter, was conspicuous. Behind us at first was Capt. Lloyd M. Brett, Second 
Cavalry, commanding 100 troopers, all mounted on bays, but some of whom 
belonged to A and C troops of that regiment. 

It was 9 o'clock in the morning. Facing us. standing within a few feet of 
Generals Shaffer, Wheeler, and Kent, were three officers, wearing Panama hats. 
They were dressed in cotton, having narrow stripes of blue and white. Their 
hats had a rosette on the side, and they wore either top boots of black leather or 
white canvas slippers. This is the uniform of the Spanish army in Cuba. One<if 
the Spanish generals, a fine-looking man with a grizzled mustache, was indicated 
to me as General T(n-al. The other officer. I was told, was General Escario. 
Lieutenant Mendoza. volunteer aid to General Shaffer, was the inteiiirefer. 

General Toral saluted General 'Shafter lik(» a graceful, dignified soldier, and 
made briefly some remarks. Just then Lieutenant Miley, Fifth Artillery, aid-de- 



372 INVESTIGATION OF Tc )NDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

camp to General Shafter, dashed to the rear, shouting to an orderly to "Bring up 
the sword." After some delay, a sword, having the belt and slings twisted arotind 
the hilt, was handed to General Shafter. It was then by him turned over to 
General Toral. Oiir trumpets then sounded, after which, by Captain Brett's 
order, the hundred cavalry executed left front into line, forming in single rank, 
on our left, facing some dismounted Spanish infantry soldiers, armed with Mauser 
rifles. The lines were not 50 yards apart. -'Present sabers !" by our cavalry was 
inmiediately followed by a like compliment by the Spanish. It was then 9:25 
f)Y-lock. General Toral shouted out something in Spanish. The Spanish trumpets 
then sounded a march. We were then told by Mr. A. C. Nunez that the tune was 
played oidy for the King of Spain or the Captain-General of Cuba. We were also 
told tliiit the soldiers facing our cavalry comprised the bodyguard of General 
Toral. A little later the Spanish infantry forged down the road, eastward, with- 
out their rifles, to the point where the Thirteenth Regiment, United States Infantry, 
received them as prisoners of war. I counted them. Their number was 380. As 
they filed along I wheeled my horse and noted trifling things. They had to step 
over the vulture-picked carcass of a horse lying in the road. Across the tall 
Guinea-Panama grass came the warl)ling trill of a mocking bird, imitating the 
"Plant! plant! chut, chut-a-dee!" so familiar to the New England ears. A few 
luTudred feet to the westward, hiding Campo de Marte from sight, the c-rest was 
lined with the now empty trenches, from which thousands of guns had Ijelched 
torrents of lead at the United States lines, after the First Division had assaulted, 
captured and held Fort San Juan, the principal Spanish stronghold, during the 
seventeen days of battle and siege, which had cost us, in killed and wounded, 
nearly 2,000 officers and men. 

All of the Americans were silent for perhaps two or three minutes. After 
General ToraFs surrendered bodyguard had i)assed us our generals led the way 
through a gap that had been made in the wire fence, and we filed out into the 
road leading to Santiago. In order to get there, distance about 2 miles, we had 
to pass through the outlying military suburb called Campo de Marte. It is made 
up entirely of barracks, military storehouses, and hospitals. These latter are very 
large buildings, and throughout the siege numeroiis white flags, each having the 
red cross, sacred to neutrals, had fluttered prominently from the roof of every 
hospital. No doubt the charge will be made that during the siege our fiirces did 
not respect but fired upon and into the buildings displaying the Geneva flag. 

Thousands of us can testify to two facts: First, that the most damaging battery 
of artillery of the enemy, one shell from which put eleven men of the Sixteentli 
United States Infantry out of action, was so located that our return fi_re imperiled 
the hospital buildings; second, that the trenches of the enemy were, in part, 
directly between these hospital buildings and our own trenches, so that the direct 
return fire of our infantry brought the hospitals, Geneva flags and all, into line. 
Moreover, in the course of our triumphal entry from the field of surrender to San- 
tiago, through Campo de Marte, we noted that the hospitals had trenches about 
them, close in, and the street barricades of tierces filled with earth; also the 
barl)ed-wire entanglements were constructed with evident defensive purposes by 
the enemy if driven from their outer intrenchments. The structures were care- 
fully scanned to see if their plastered surfaces showed any bullet marks. Few 
indications were observable of bullet impact or penetration. The cavalcadeof 
army officers passed Spanish refugees who were wending their way back into town. 
Most were afoot. A few carretas, two-wheeled vehicles, drawn by a single uuile 
or Cuban pony in sliafts, were passed. Some had as many as ten children huddled 
in one; only one four-wheeled carriage, a sort of barouche, hauled by a piiir of 
undersized Cuban ponies, contained (jne or two adults and eight or ten .iuveniles. 
The streets are mostly paved and (juite narrow, not wdde enough for a field bat- 
terv of artillery. Santiago is built upon a siding. Some of the houses were built 



Inspection RKPoirrs. 373 

of brick, then plastered; some were built of adobe, or sun-dried brick, and then 
lilastered; some were mnd-and-stick houses. Many had blue fronts. The front 
doors were of double or triple layers of wood studded with nails and of great 
strength. Many resembled a jail entrance, because supplemented with iron 
doors. Barred windows were common. Nearly every residence showed both 
door and wdndow gratings, from behind which many women and children peered 
at us; a few men also peered. Shops were numerous, but the majority were 
closed on July 17. Here and there floated the flag of a foreign consulate. The 
Spanish flag was not anywhere seen. Soldiers were numerous. At the princi])al 
street corners armed sentinels with Mauser rifles were posted. They app<^ared 
to be doing police patrol duty. All of the Spanish privates were what we 
term undersized men. We passed sad-eyed women, scowling-eyed women, and 
coquettish-eyed women. Many of these latter smiled at the procession of Amer- 
ican ofBcers from second-story balconies. As a rule. th(! women were thin, 
uncomely, and slatternly; only a few had their hair neatly arranged; less than 5 
per cent wore mantillas; their faces were more wan than handsome. Absolutely 
naked children stood in doorways, on the balconies, in windows, or in the streets, 
A general paucity existed of decent clothes or necessities. Numerous starve- 
ling cats and kittens were visible. On the groimd porch of one house a burro 
was lariated to the front door. More negroes, I should call them, than Spaniards 
were seen. Lines of refugee Cirbans, carrying bundles, pails, furniture, even 
trunks, upon their heads were seen. All appeared to be entering the city, none 
departing. Perhaps they were of the 15,000 noncombatants who fled from San- 
tiago to avoid the perils of the bombardment. A few, a very few, led or drove 
poor-looking milch cows. We were impressed by the marked physical contrast 
between the undersized, wiry, cotton-clad Spanish soldiers and our men. Nobody 
^ braced iip, so far as I noticed. I was surprised to see so many well-stocked stores, 
* although the warehouses of the pawnbrokers were more abundantly filled with 
furniture and other household belongings than any. Santiago has several stores 
whose shelves display what good judges say are $10,000 worth of general mer- 
chandise on sale. There is a hardware store in Santiago de Cuba carrying a 
$20,000 stock of goods. One warehouse had 500,000 pounds of rice in 200-pound 
sacks. Great quantities of olive oil, mostly in tin cans, are on hand. We had 
heard such touching tales of the general destitution prevailing in Santiago, as for 
instance, that the Spanish soldiers were subsisting on horse meat to avoid !?tarv- 
ing, that the evidences of sale goods were especially noted. Capt. E. F. Taggart, 
commissary of subsistence, United States Volunteers, also called my attention to 
a kind of parched barley put up in metal-lined cans. But t,o resume. Reaching a 
plaza the generals dismounted, we of the staff following suit. All in order of 
rank entered a large biiilding. For a few minutes we wandered about without let 
or liindrance. This is what I saw: Tiled floors, marble freshly wet. The floors of 
the halls and the rooms that I visited were not all alike. Some had black and 
white tiles alternating. Some of the rooms had planked floors. All of the win- 
dows had Venetian shutters. All of the rooms were cool. The windows had 
lambrequins. There were also portieres, and an abundance of chairs— arm-chairs, 
cane-seated, and cane-backed. In the great reception room was a life-sized oil 
painting, probably of some Spanish Queen. Quantities of bamboo furniture, 
iron-barred windows, glass chandeliers, crystal pendants of the old style, some- 
thing like mother's candelabra, marble-topped tables, green-topped tables, irre- 
sistibly suggestive of poker, several cheval glasses six feet high outside the frame, 
and perhaps four feet six inside, were conspicuous. Strolling back I passed into 
bedrooms. There were no closed doors. The beds all had canopies. Decorated 
china toilet sets, eau de quinine, puff boxes, " Roger Gallet " French soap. Ser- 
vants were engaged in setting a table for ten. It had a floral center-piece, cut- 
glass decanters, three sizes of wineglasses, and the usual china and cutlery 
appointments of civilization. 



374 IWESTKJATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Later our runking generals lunched there. An electric push button hung upon 
the wall of the hall, seated and standing about which were groups of American 
army officers, of some of whom Adelbert Ames, n'r., secured snap shots with his 
kodak. 

I am told that the mayor of Santiago was an American citizen, and that one of 
the gentlemen in black civilian dress was the civilian governor of the Province. 
We heard that General Cxomez asked to be assigned as governor of the Province 
of Santiago: that he was refused, and Gen. Leonard Wood or Gen. Chamliers 
McKibben selected for tlu i)osition, whereat General Gomez and his followers 
retired in umbrage to the mountains. It may be all rumor; I know nothing at all 
about it. 

A little before noon, Jiily 17, the generals and their respective staffs massed in 
the plaza facing the governor's palace. Around the plaza our soldiers and many 
others not of our army assembled. On the roof of the palace were three officers, 
viz. Lieutenant Miley, of the artillery. Captain McKittrick, of General Shatter's 
staff, and Lieutenant Wheeler, of General Wheeler's staff. Lieutenant Miley 
held the halyards attached to our national flag. It was about the size of a 
recruiting or storm flag, only shorter. Gen. Chambers McKibben, United States 
Volunteers, was with a military band back of us. The officer last named gave 
the command, "Present arms! " repeated by Captain Brett. Just as 12 o'clock 
chimed out of the cathedral clock the flag — our flag — was raised to the top of the 
staff over the governor's palace. The band played the Star Spangled Bamier, 
after which patriotic peace prevailed, and General Kent and stafl: returned to 
their camp. Some soldier called for three cheers for General Shatter. Cheers 
followed. To-morrow our naval vessels will enter the harbor of Santiago and 
be speedily followed, I trust, by enough transports to receive our sick and take 
them where they can breathe saline air and be sheltered from further exposure 
to tropical heat by day and the damp, chill night, to say nothing of the daily rains 
prevalent at this season. In my ox)inion this is the first use to which our fleet should 
be devoted. General Shatter's orders are that no person in military service 
except division quartermasters and commissary officers on dtity connected with 
their departments in unloading the transports, etc., will be permitted within the 
limits of the city of Santiago save iix'on the pass signed by the corps commander. 
I regret, therefore, that opportunity will not be allowed me to examine Castle 
Morro and the batteries at Punta Guarda, along the channel, on the heights, and 
particularly the guns, 6-inch mortars or 6-inch siege, whose fire silenced our 
8i-inch field guns and caused most of the losses among our infantry men in 
the trenches. It would have been a great and appreciated opportunity to have 
been permitted to examine and report upon the defensive Spanish appliances. It 
is understood that 33,000 Spanish soldiers capitulated. Only 11,000 of this num- 
l)er are understood to be regulars; the rest are volunteers. The terms of the 
ca])itulation have not been made known officially to the divisions, so far as I can 
learn. An undated commvmication has been telephoned as follows, viz: 

Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, 

July IS, 1S9S. 
Generals Wheeler and Kent: 

Have just received word from General Toral that the Spanish Government has 
approved capitulation. 

Shapter, Coiyimanding Fifth Army Corjis. 

On Tuesday, July 19, the First Division changed camp, moving west about a 
mile and a half, possibly five-eighths. General Kent occupying the ground vacated 
by Col. H. L. Turner, First Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Lawton's Division. 
Though the distance was short, none of the men of this division having to march 
more than 3 miles, and with no restriction as to rate or time, it took several 
hours in which to complete the move, an army wagon or two being allowed each 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 375 

brigade to haul impedimenta it was not practicable to carry npon the person. 
The change of camping ground demonstrated sadly the enfeebled condition of onr 
men. They straggled along the road; some fell out and prostrated themselves 
anywhere where shade conld be obtained. Some of Greneral Ames's men, Thir- 
teenth Infantry, completed tlie march and then dropped unconscious or went 
crazy. He has a wail tent as his headqiiarters and for personal occupancy. In 
that tent he sheltered and cared for several exhausted or delirious privates. He 
said that during his entire military experience and command, 1861 and succeeding 
years, he never saw as heavy a percentage of used-up men. Unless more food and 
a greater variety of food is furnished these soldiers their condition will become 
liitiable indeed. They also need to be relieved of the necessity of having to travel a 
mile and a half for a canteen full of water. They have no camp kettles ; all were left 
aboard the transports 2-5th of last month, and have remained at Siboney, 12 miles 
from here, ever since. Ditto as to extra clothing. They need better shelter than 
shelter tents. All canvas beyond what could l)e carried upon the person was ordered 
left behind when the army of invasion left the transports. That was June 24 and 
25. The tents are still on the vessels, and it is much to be hoped that they ^\^ll be 
landed at Santiago, together with other supplies. Major McLaughlin, command- 
ing Sixteenth United States Infantry, says that his men can no longer stomach 
canned bacon. According to the statement, soldiers vomit at the sight of a label 
having printed on it the name of Libby or Armour. They lived on it during a 
sea voyage of 18 days; have lived on it since, and now want some nourishing food 
that their stomachs can retain. Major McLaughlin says that he would like vin- 
egar and tobacco for his regiment. Regarding vinegar. Colonel Miner, command- 
ing Sixth United States Infantry, says, " My men drank what vinegar was issued 
them like hungry wolves." The officer last named says that what is issued as 
canned beef is refuse from which all nourishment has been extracted. Dr. Cal- 
houn says that it is not possible for officers to buy pure lime juice at 27 cents i^er 
large bottle. He believes that the article sold by the Subsistence Department as 
such is injurious. Asst. Surg. W. D. McCaw, Medical Department, on duty with 
the Sixth United States Infantry, reports that symptoms of scurvy are showing 
themselves in certain fever cases, and asks that issue be made of vinegar, onions, 
potatoes, tomatoes, etc. Dr. McCaw states that he has not shelter or canvas 
enough for his sick. Wants cans of beef extract. He predicts that a startling 
increase in the sick list vnll occur, due to lack of the essentials, food and rest, 
and proper clothing. All of the indications sustain this prediction, and the 
sooner the sick are placed aboard transports the better. "The di-\dsion com- 
mander has received and forwarded for the consideration of the corps commander 
pressing appeals upon this subject, i. e., removal of the sick. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Philip Reade, 

Major, Inspector-General, First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 



Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, 

Santiago cle Cuba, July 20, 1S9S. 
The Commanding General First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 

Sir: The commanding general directs yoii to not permit any of your officers or 
men to visit Santiago except by authority of these headquarters. 

The only exception of this order will be the chief (quartermaster and chief com- 
missary of the division, both of whom are authorized to enter on duty whenever 
necessary. 

Very respectfully, 

E. J. McClernand, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 



37G INVERTIOATION OF {'ONDUrT OF WAR AVITH SPAIN. 

Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, 

Santiago dc Cuba, July :'S, 189S. 
The Commanding General First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 

Sir: Tlie coiumauding general lias noticed that the town is full of officers and 
men, notwithstanding the orders that have been issued on the subject. 

Hereafter no one will be allowed to go to town in addition to orderlies except 
the officers and men going to the wharf for property. These i)ersons will proceed 
to the wharf, transact their business, and return without loitering about town. 
Strict orders will be issued to see that the above is carried out. 
Very respectfully, 

E. J. MoClernand, 
Assistant Adjutant-General. 



Headquarters First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 

In the Field, near Santiago de Cuba, July ,.'.:>, ISOS. 
The Inspector-General, Washington D. C. 
Sir: I have the honor to continue itinerary and report as follows: 
Friday, July 22, 1898. My morning inspection of this date was wholly confined 
to the Twenty-first United States Infantry, now commanded by Capt. Fred 
Ebstein. None of the sick of this division have, as expected and hoped, been 
removed to the transports now lying in the harbor of Santiago, 4 miles away. 
The mortality increase has become so great that I determined to confine my 
inspection to personal attendance at the sick call of the respective regiments, 
beginning with the Twenty -first Infantry. The surgeon is Capt. Harry E. Fislier, 
assistant surgeon. Medical Department, U. S. Army. This officer has been rec- 
ommended ])y the division commander, based upon his conduct and services 
during the battle of Fort San Juan, 1st, 2d, and 3d instant. I sat beside him for 
more than three hours this morning, while he examined and prescribed for 121 
applicants for admission to the sick report. This number does not include the 
sick already in hospital nor those who were physically unable to report at sick 
call. There were no malingerers. Then we went to see those who could not 
leave their shelter tents or the hospital tents. Dr. Fisher impresses me as being 
a physician of exceptional thoroughness, discrimination, alertness. He is a thor- 
oughly well-balanced man. The followng is a summary: 

Cases. 

Company A, Captain Williams 23 

Company B, Captain Wittich 20 

Company C, Captain Sparrow 10 

Company D, Captain Eltonhead 12 

Company E, Captain Duncan 13 

Company F, Captain Bailey _' ig 

Company G, Captain Bonestead 15 

Company H, Captain Cornman 10 

Strength of the Twenty-first United States Infantry: Present— officers, 18; 
men, 388. 

There is very little stationery in camp. Record books, etc., are still aboard the 
transports. The sick reports presented to tlie surgeon are made out in pencil on 
scraps of paper. The Twenty-first United States Infantry appears to be largely 
made up of native-born Americans. The men are filthy. Campaign hats are 
worn out, full of holes, shapeless, and sweat through. Blue flannel shirts are 
rent, making visible backs and shoulders; sleeves tattered to the elbows. Few 
have either suspenders or suspender buttons: latter are replaced by sticks or 
thorns for fastenings. Trousers are mud-bedaubed below the knee, and shine 
from grease and dirt accumulations above the knee. The damp soil and humid 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 37 I 

climate cause feet to swell; then the shoes become too tight: enlarged joints, 
corns, etc., follow, and the men cut or slit their shoes for ease. In many cases 
toes project. The men have other shoes, but they are aboard the transports, 
where left nearly a month ago. Canvas trousers and imuniformed garments are 
so common as not to excite observation or justify criticism under existing circum- 
stances. Some of the vagrants employed by municipalities to earn their sub- 
sistence by labor in the public streets are better clad than some of these self- 
respecting American soldiers who have fought a brave resisting enemy. Their 
condition excites the deepest commiseration. Whilst awaiting examination, some 
of these gaunt soldiers sat, some were stretched out upon the groimd. All of 
their pallid faces were apathetic until their names were called. When their turn 
came, they shambled iip to the examining surgeon and told liim their symptoms. 
Their attitude was of extreme depression. Dr. Fisher said to me, •• Some of these 
men have eaten nothing for two days."' In some doubtful cases, i. e., of conva- 
lescents, the examining surgeon asked if they were able to do duty. As a rule, 
the reply indicated a willingness to "try to."' The doctor had the hospital stew- 
ard take the temperature of several of the applicants, some of whom were for the 
fii-st time presenting themselves for examination or treatment. Private Johnson, 
Company G, had lOOf : Private Stafford. Company H. had lUl : Private Kuhn, 
Company C, had 1011 : Private Herrick, Company A. had lOo? : Private DeSwan, 
Company H, lO-ii : Private Kelsh, Company H, collapsed whilst being examined. 
After whisky and ammonia treatment, he had to be taken away upon a litter. 
His was not the only case. Men reeled from weakness or staggered from vertigo. 
Dr. Fisher commented to me that they were not shamming, though doubtless 
sympathy and precedent had their effect. Their pulse told what his professional 
' eye could not. The great majority were cases of malarial fever; some complained 

♦ of diarrhea. 

* Saturday, July 28, 1S9S. 

On this date I attended the sick call of the Seventy-first Regiment New York 
Volunteer Infantry (Col. Wallace A. Downes). Capt. H. E. Stafford, assistant 
surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, is the only medical officer present for duty with the 
regiment. The surgeon, Maj. W. D. Bell, is present, but sick. The other 
assistant surgeon, Capt. James Stafford, was detached from the regiment the 
13th of June and assigned to duty with the Fourth United States Infantry, 
where he yet remains. The strength of the regiment now present is 40 officers, 
615 men. Dr. H. E. Stafford conducts the examination of the sick under circum- 
stances such as are seldom paralleled, I hope. On the 31st instant his tempera- 
ture was 105 , yesterday it was 103' , and to-day his temperature is above 100 ' . He 
sticks to his work, however. He has two hospital-coii)S privates to assist him. 
There are two hospital stewards present with the regiment, but both are sick. I 
asked the surgeon, '• How many sick have you to attend who are unable to appear 
at sick call?"" He replied. "About 150."' The applicants at sick call this a. m. 

numbered 233. They were divided up as follows: 

Cases. 

Company A, Captain Townsand "l'-^ 

Company B. Captain Hazen -^ 

Company C. Captain H3insman 21 

Company D. Captain Linson 20 

Company E, Lieutenant Hill (commanding) - - 12 

Company F. Captain Rafferty ^ 

Company G, Captain Bleeker 26 

Company H. Captain Langston 1^ 

Company I, Cai)tain Meeks ^^ 

Company K. Captain Selfridge 14 

Company L . Captain Austin 1^ 

Company M, Captain Goldsborough 26 



378 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Strength of regiment: Present, oflBcers, 40;. men, 615. 

Eight of the officers of this regiment are also sick. It would ho but a reitera- 
tion of what I have already written in my report concerning the sick of the 
Twenty-first United States Infantry to record here facts, pitiable facts, concerning 
these fever-stricken Nev%' York soldiers. Surgeon Maj. D. W. Bell, of the Seventy- 
first, says: 

" When the Seventy-first left New York it had a thoroughly equipped hospital 
corps, so far as the personnel went. At Tampa, Fla., June 13, one of mj' assist- 
ants, Capt. James Stafford, was taken away from the Seventy-first and assigned 
to duty with the Fourth United States Infantry, where he yet remains, although 
he has been applied for and has applied to be returned to the regiment. We then 
numbered over a thousand men. Next, when we landed at Siboney (Altares), 
Cuba, JiTiie 24, the chief surgeon. First Division, took 13 of my hospital-cori^s 
men. On the same day corps headqiiarters ordered one of my most competent 
men, Froelich, to be sent to the Twelfth United States Infantry, where he still 
remains. He was an esi)ecially valuable man to me. Then First-class Hospital 
Steward Busby and Private Guillisan, hospital corps, were, by the corps com- 
mander, taken from me and ordered to report to Chief Surgeon Pope. I have not 
since had the benefit of their services. Prior to that a staff officer of the corps 
commander verbally ordered one of my hospital-corps men, who was also a phy- 
sician, to El Caney. His jiresent whereabouts and assignment are unknown to 
me. It is like taking away the lock of a soldier's gun ju.st prior to sending him into 
a fight to thus strip a new regiment of its hospital corps men. I am sick; unable 
to move about. My one assistant, Capt. H. E. Stafford, should be on the sick 
report, void of professional responsibilities. I have no steward available; both 
are sick. My present effective force consists of two hospital corps privates. 
About the only medicines available in the medical department here are quinine, 
castor oil, compound cathartics, diarrhea pills, and salts. No stimulants yet 
received, though promised. I have no calomel."' 

Surgeon Bell says that he purchased, at his own expense, and paid for from 
private funds in Tampa, Fla., about §70 worth of drugs for the use of his regi- 
ment. Captain Stafford also purchased and paid for about $40 worth. This 
expenditure was in part for Warburg tincture in capsule form, antiseptic pills, 
ginger, aromatic spirits of ammonia, phenal bromide, salol. 

I next proceeded to the Sixteenth United States Infantry and was present dur- 
ing the sick-call examination, conducted by Assistant-Surgeon John Hamilton 
Stone. One hundred and forty-five men responded at sick call, and T officers 
were also on sick report. The following figures suggest a condition upon which I 
will not now comment: 

Cases. 

Company A. Lieutenant Steadman H 

Company B, Lieutenant Gowan 19 

Company C, Lieutenant Preston 17 

Company D. Lieutenant Simmons 18 

Company E. Captain McFarland Ig 

Company F. Lieutenant Ridenour 8 

Company G, Lieutenant Dunning 17 

Company H Lieutenant Erwin 20 

Company I. Lieutenant Cowles 12 

Company K, Lieutenant Palmer 7 

Present strength of regiment: Officers, 10; men, 599. 

The following-named officers are also borne upon the sick report; all are fever 
cases: Captain Noble, Major McLaughlin, Captain Allen, Lieutenants Palmer. 
Dunnnig, Gowen, Carey. Dr. Stone says that above aggregate does not represent 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 379 

tlie actual disability of the reti^iinent. INIany men are woi-n out by sickness and 
famine, bnt from motives of pride and from a disinclination to impose any more 
work ni^oii tlie regimental surgeon ask not to l»e i^laced on sick reports. So they 
are exciised from duty without being officially included in the list of sick. Since 
writing the foregoing lines I learn that Dr. J. H. Stone has succumbed to the fever 
eiiidemic. It is impossil)le for any one to tell how long he will be able to fulfill his 
duties. After an inspection of the Sixteenth Infantry, made in shelter tents and not 
under arms, I i)roeeeded to and completed a like informal inspection of the Sixth 
United States Infantry. The surgeon of the regiment hist named is Capt. Walter 
D. McCaw. Medical Department, U. S. Army. From him I obtained the follow- 
ing data regarding the sick of the Sixth Infantry: The Sixth United States Infantry 
has no hospital. The sick are cared for in their own shelter tents. There ia no 
other covering for them. In answer to my tpiestion. '•What is the capacity of 
yoiar hospital?" the foUo^ving reply was received: "Capacity is unlimited, all 
patients being in the oi^en air under shelter tents." One hundred and eighty-two 

enlisted men of this regiment are absent sick. 

Cases. 

Company A. Lieutenant Hunt 5 

Com])any B, Captain Turner 4 

Company C. Lieutentant Ryther 8 

Company D, Lieutenant Chrisman 7 

Comiiany E. Captain Kennon 6 

Company F. Capt. Chas. Byrne 5 

Company G. Lieutenant Jones 

Company H, Lieutenant Beckurts ■') 

Strength of regiment: Present, officers, 30: men, 369. 

» Three officers are on the sick report. Dr. McCaw says that he has only one 

\hospital corps man for duty, assisted by a bandman. His acting hospital steward 

is sick with the prevalent Cuban malarial fever. Dr. McCaw desires it to be 

made a matter of record that he needs for the sick food supplies, stimulants, and 

shelter. Lieut. Col. C. "W". Miner, regimental commander, says: 

"Since the landing of the regiment at Siboney. June 23, it has cheerfully 
endured almost every hardshiij known to military life. Sickness has made, is 
making, very serious inroads iipon the strength and efficiency of the command. 
This is due to causes entirely beyond the control of the regimental comiiiander. 
In the first place, the rations here have been of the most meager description. For 
weeks the command has siibsisted on bacon, hard tack, sugar, and coffee. Canned 
meat was several times furnished, but without salt or vegetables. It had no savor, 
scant nutriment, and was but little liked. Once three or four potatoes to a man 
were issued, and once an onion was given to about every two men. On several 
occasions soldiers w^ere without anj-thing to eat. It was impracticable always to 
boil water. In the trenches fires could not be lighted, and not only was the 
water unboiled, but the ration of bacon was eaten uncooked. Tliey fought by 
day and dug trenches by night. The climate is hot. The men were necessarily 
confined closely to their posts and to camp. Bathing facilities were lacking dm- 
ing most of the time. Facilities were lacking for change of underclothing. 
Under the fervid heat of a tropical sun. also in torrents of rain, they have marched, 
toiled, and fought on unsuitable rations. The close confinement in freshly dug 
trenches, the unavoidable drinking of impure water, the lack of protection from 
rain, sun, and dew, and the sleeping in wet clothing on the ground in mud, 
swamp, and trenches: the enforced i^ersonal Tincleanliness, have all contributed 
to render the men weak and imable to resist the fever and other diseases peculiar 
to hot climates. Every rule of hygiene has been unavoidably broken. That any 
should have survived only shows the excellent condition tsf the command at the 



880 INVESTTOATION OF CONDTK'T OP^ WAR WITH SPAm. 

beginiiiiig of the campaign. That many are now sick should cause no surprise. 
The stomach turns on a diet without vegetables, and the exposures the men have 
undergone have produced a fever from which few have escaped. All are weak 
and in no condition either for marching or fighting. The crying needs are for 
proper shelter from sun and rains and proper food."' 

It is difficult to add to the force of Colonel Miner's statement. The scope 
might, with equal truthfulness, be made to include the recommendation, first, 
that these troops need a full supply of fresh vegetables of every kind; second, to 
reiterate the suggestion and recommendation that the sick of the army be 
removed to transports properly eqiiipped with cots, cooks, food and medical sup- 
plies, culinary, etc., outfits, an adequate hospital and medical coi-ps, and taken 
out into the bracing sea air. The numerous transports now lying passengerless 
in the harbor of Santiago are within 2 miles of some of the sick. None of the 
sick of the First Division, Fifth Army Corps, are 4 miles distant from these 
transports. Our sick list is daily becoming larger. The dangers of yellow fever 
are not remote. The percentage of effective, tolerably able-bodied men is daily 
becoming smaller. The fighting is over. The Spanish have capitulated, and 
are now held as i^risoners of war. Hence the incentive of bracing to fight human 
foes is lacking. Famine does not threaten ns. The National Relief Commission, 
backed by the Red Cross Society and the contributions of the liome people of the 
United States, has put in an api)earance. Curative and material comforts, lux- 
uries even, such as ice, lemons, jars of sweets, etc., are at hand. What is needed 
is that the .sick men be taken away and sheltered where invigorating sea breezes 
and slrilled attendance can be given them. Then the well men might be pro- 
vided with hammocks or cots. Thus they will not be comiielled to any longer 
sleep on the ground. I have persistently daily urged these accessories of healtli. 
The sick remain just where they have been for several days. In the langiTage of 
Maj. M. W. Wood, medical department, chief surgeon First Division, we are- 
confronted with a xery grave state of affairs. It is a lamentable fact that there 
are hundreds of sick who are not receiving proper attention, care, or treatment. 
There are no hospitals provided with equipment near to troops, nor medical sup- 
plies obtainalile by the regimental surgeons, nor ambulances vnih which to 
transfer the sick to hospitals if such existed, nor hospital tents to shelter the 
sick, nor proper food for the sick, nor sufficient means to attend upon them, nor 
cots to raise them from the gi'ound. 

Soldiers recklessly, thoughtlessly, enter deserted or abandoned habitations or 
shelters of the inhabitants of the island or use fragments of these about their own 
shelters, or handle personal belongings or wares of the inhabitants, all of which, 
for our purposes, should be regarded as infected. How can we expect attention 
to be paid to these warnings when medical officers daily violate them by entering 
deserted habitations, locating our sick within them, mingling with crowds of 
refugees, etc.? Eighteen hundred men of the Fir.st Division are noneffective by 
reason of sickness. It is predicted that this number will increase. Yellow fever 
is in the trenches along which this division is encamped. The public road leading 
from the El Caney region into Santiago is a thoroughfare daily for hundreds of 
the natives. They gather fruits and sell same to our soldiers. They are bartering 
cigars, tobacco, rum, and relics to our soldiers every hour of the day along that 
thoroughfare. The corps commander's orders allow no one to go into town except 
officers and men going to the w-harf after property, save quarterm.asters and sub- 
sistence officers of division headquarters. The nonintercourse order of restriction 
is neutralized by the trade intercourse frequently reported. These natives should 
be shunned, not dickered with. The quarantine is a farce. No regiment has 
more than one medical officer for duty. The rest are sick. Apparent neglect 
instead of care results. The First Division hospital, Dr. Wood's, has suffered a 



INSPECTION KEPOHTS. 381 

general disintegi-ation by having its eciuipment sent to various points, wliile it 
now consists only of three hospital tents, five extra flies, seven cots, eight blankets, 
no mattresses or pillows. •• Why." said Dr. Wood, •• the other divisions, having 
equal time, warning facilities, etc., were not ecjually well providinl with trans- 
portation from the time of landing that the First Division had. is unknown. 
The sufferings and misery of this division can not be overstated. We hear their 
moans at night as they lie side by side with tlie well. They have had no change 
of clothing, no blankets, insufficient food. The supply of medical stores is insuf- 
ficient. The surgeons are overworked. There is plenty of food aboard the trans- 
ports, less than 5 miles away. The sick are in shelter tents that do not shelter. 
They are frenzied by day, chilled by night. Humanity demands that these sick 
soldiers be transferred to a vessel fitted up as a hospital ship." In this opinion 
the chief surgeon of the division concurs. So does the division commander. The 
number of the sick will soon aggregate one-third of this command. 



The transport City of Washingion carried from Port Tampa, Fla.. to Siboney. 
Cuba, the Twenty-fourth Regiment. United States Infantry, and a battalion of 
the Twenty-first United States Infantry. The Brcakirater transp<n-ted the Third 
United States Infantry. The Berkshire transported Companies D and G of the 
Twenty-first Infantry. On landing at Siboney the officers took a.shore only such 
personal effects as they were permitted to carry upon their persons. The orders of 
the corps commanders were that only ammunition and rations, in addition to such 
effects as one could carry upon his person, should be landed. Officers thereupon 
left aboard ship everything not embraced above. The transports named have 
since left Cuban water.s. The City of Washington is now said to be at NeAvport 
News. The whereabouts of the Breol-irater and Berkshire are nnknoAvn. The 
officers and men t)f the organizations named are wondering when and how they 
can recover or replace their effects. One company commarider left his company 
fund aboard ship. 

Modern appliances of tear.— There have been heralded during the last decade 
or two many modern electrical and other appliances intended to revolutionize war, 
but we seem to be fighting it out on the same old basis, smokeless powder and an 
occasional telephone excepted. The headquarters First Division, Fifth Army 
Corps, have not been, up to date hereof, equipped with telephone or electrical 
appliances or conveniences. All messages and communications have been by the 
old-time methods. The advantages of the modern propellant, as opposed to the 
old-time black powder, have been \\\ its comparative noiselessness and smokeless- 
ness. The Spanish have mainly used the smokeless propellant. Some of their 
artillery may have employed lilack powder. 

Individual marksmansh i})— Range finders.— First Lieut. Charles H. Muir, Second 
Infantry, is of the class of distinguished sharpshooters. He has been known to 
me for fully ten years past by reason of his honorable identification vrith what is 
popularly known as " target practice.' His abilities are beyond the mere ability 
to correctly judge of the effects of wind, light, and shade upon a projectile, also of 
ability to have .eye, muscles, and finger act synchronously in pulling trigger when 
the rifle was in proper positiim. He is a man who has always mixed brains Wi,,.; 
gunpowder. He states that during the battles of Fort San Juan. 1st. 2d. and 3cl of 
Jidy , whih- in the trenches directing the fire of a squad of si'lei-ted sharpshooters, his 
attention was attracted by the grouping of a few of the Spanish at a range which 
he, by the use of a bhiocuiar range finder of French make (Souchiers). announced 
to be 1,100 yards. He adjusted the sights of his rifle. United States magazine, 
model 1892 or 1893, accordingly; took careful aim. fired twice: called his shot 



I 



3S2 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SP/^IN. 



instantly, and eacli time brought down an enemy. Meml)ers of his squad, with 
equal suc-cess, same time and range, potted a third Spaniard. Lieutenant Mnir 
highly commends the pattern of range finder named, and recommends that such 
be issued to selected distinguished marksmen. United States Army. 

This is in direct line with what I have, during many years past, advocated and 
repeatedly officially recommended. Some of our distinguished marksmen have 
earned all of the medals that orders allow and are disqualified from entering 
further small-arm competitions, but ask that each year they be permitted to com- 
pete with those of their own class, the prizes tolje rifles or carbines of especial manu 
facture, range finders, binocular glasses, or other paraphernalia proi^er for the 
outfit of a marksman who is also a ijractical Inmter. Capt. George H. Morgan, 
Third Cavalry, and who is also a distinguished marksman. United States Army, 
an officer of ripened experience in Indian warfare in Arizona, and who is, like 
Lieutenant Muir, a very cool-headed man, of good judgment amid surroundings 
of excitement, says that he woiild have had some interesting data to furnish sup- 
porting my conviction that individual marksmanship, i)roiierly supplemented, 
counts in battle, if he had had a proper range finder. He says that in trench 
work, lia\'ing no glass, he could not locate the point of impact of the bullets, even 
when his troops fired volleys. Lieut. Hugh D. Wise, Ninth United States Infantry, 
alleges that during the battle of July 1 he and a sharpshooter named Mcllhaney 
had their attention attracted by a Spanish officer who was conspicuous because rid- 
ing a white horse. Q-uessing at the range. 1,100 yards, Mcllhaney opened fire 
upon and hit the Spaniard. Lieutenant Wise says that he subsequently learned 
that General Linares, the C(immander of the Santiago Spanish forces, rode a horse 
of that color when wounded, and he believes that Mr. Mcllhaney did it. Oiir 
trenches in places were not over 500 or 600 yards from the trenches of the enemy 
during the fusillades of the 2d and 3d of July. One of our lieutenants of artillery 
told me that at a period when the Spanish guerrillas were especially pestiferous 
and annoying, a second lieutenant, name tmknown, went under a tree in whose 
dense foliage he thoiTght a Sjianish sharpshooter mighf be concealed, and fired at 
random several revolver shots into the tree top. After the fourth or fifth shot 
a Mauser or Remington rifle was dropped from overhead, followed a few seconds 
later by a frightened Spaniard who was clad in a dark-blue United States Army 
blouse. My informant went on to say that he must decline giving me any names, 
because the incident closed ^^'itho^^t any aid from any jjriest or clergyman. 

Casualties.— Lieut. Charles E. Tayman, Twenty-fourth United States Infantry, 
was detailed July 15 as acting inspector-general. Third Brigade, First Division, 
by Brig. Gen. Adelbert Ames, commanding brigade, and filled the position for 
two weeks, when he was appointed aid-de-camp by General Ames. He says that 
on July 1 the Spanish loss at El Caney was 500 killed and wounded; that the 
enemy lost 1,700 at the miizzle of General Kent's division at Fort San Juan, and 
sustained a further loss of 3.500 during the attempted surprise of and attack upon 
our line on the night of July 2. The failure of this attack, lie said, caused Admiral 
Cervera to make, the follo^dng day, the attempt to break out of Santiago Harbor, 
preferring, he said, to die fighting rather than to sink his ships. The Galling gun 
detachment is in charge of Lieut. John H. Parker. Thirteenth United States Infan- 
try. He has four guns. Diiring the forenoon of J uly 1 , in the assault on Fort San 
Juan, he fired 34.000 caliber .30 cartridges at ranges of 1,800 yards and upv/ard. 
During the entire battle he fired 42.000 rounds. One of Lieutenant Parker's indi- 
vidual exploits, using the ser\ace rifle, was to kill at a range of 400 yards a Span- 
ish sharpshooter who had posted himself in a tree top and was shooting at the 
Galling gun detachment. The effective strength of the First Division, Fifth 
Army Corps (Kent's), on the 10th, loth, 20th, 25th, and 31st of July, 1898, is 
shown on the following page. The steady increase in the sick report is shown by 



'•i 

I 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 383 

the last colnnin. It is more than feared that the list ^vill soon inclnde one-third 
of the division. The removal of such of the sick as can be moved to transports 
fo?- deportation to the United States is urgently recommended by the chief sur 
geon of the division. It should bo done at once. Empty transports are in the 
harbor of Santiago. One has 150 unoccupied cots aboard. The main causes of 
death so far have been diagnosed as malarial fever, dengue fever, remittent per- 
nicious fever, remittent malarial fever, dysentery, and exhaustion following 
dengue fever. On Monday, June 27, at Sevilla, Major-General Breckinridge, 
United States Volunteers, the Inspector-General, United States Army, asked me 
what thing did I consider most markedly should be reported to General Miles by 
cable? I then replied: •' The maintenance of magnificent health by the army. ' I 
regret that I can not now make that observation. Our sick list is increasing daily. 

RECOMMENDATIONS. 

It is understood that none of the troops comprising the army of invasion 
will be permitted to leave the present lines of investment overlooking Santiago 
until all of the capitulated Spanish prisoners have been sent to Spain. It is under- 
stood that the Unitinl States regiments of immunes will then take our places, and 
we will be sent to Montauk Point, eastern end of Long Island. But the sick, such 
as can be moved, should be sent away. Human life will thus be saved. 

Hammocks, camp stools.— The majority .of the soldiers here sleep upon the 
ground. I have recommended that this be prohibited for sanitary reasons. The 
Second United States Infantrymen, first of all in this division, made for them- 
selves rude but practicable cots, using forked uprights, cross sticks, and grass, 
etc. , bedding. This conmiand merits a gratuitous supply of hammocks and camp 
stools. Such health preserves cost comparatively little. Company I, Second 
United States Infantry, came to Cuba on the Hudson, and the effects of the organ- 
ization were landed on the beach. They have wholly disappeared. 

The statement of the New York Herald that General Shatter was wounded in 
the battle of July 1, 2, 3, is not true. The corps commander first came to the 
front on July 7. 

Clerk, stationery.— JJndev the provisions of Army Regulations 358, I made 
application May 30 for a clerk. This application and request were reiterated in 
June. I have no clerk. I have also asked to have a supply of office stationery 
sent to me by mail. I have received none. It is my daily practice to leave my 
hammock as soon before 7 o'clocka. m. as possible, returning at about noon. At 
10 o'clock a. m. the heat is most oppressive. Not much out-of-door work can be 
done or should be done in this region between 10 o'clock a. m. and 8 o'clock p. in. 
But the duties of my position involve a good deal of clerical labor. Having 
neither blanks nor stationery, I am compelled to restrict myself to this form of 
itinerary and report. I urgently reciuest that a competent clerk, provided with 
a typewriter and typewriting supplies of all kinds, be sent to report to me. He 
must expect to mess as do the soldiers of the division head(iuarters, detachment 
of guards, and orderlies; must be prepared and willing to " rough it." and should 
bring bedding, hammock, toilet necessaries, etc. If possible, I will secure him a 
mount. In the matter of stationery, we have been indebted to the Young Men's 
Christian Association for our paper, envelopes, pens, pencils, and ink. The Quar- 
termaster Department has no stationery for issue— none for its own necessities. 
In preceding reports I have told how, from the day we landed at Siboney, every 
officer, from General Kent down, carried upon his own person what he slept on or 
Auder, what he ate or drank. It was imi)racticable to carry any stationery, 
except such as could be carried in a sabretache. I can not make formal applica- 
tions for articles and amounts of stationery; have no blanks; none are obtainable; 
but I want and need a clerk and also paper, etc. 



384 lNVE!SriGATIU>; Ul" CONDUCT Ol' WAK WITH SPAIN. 

Maj James H, McLeary, inspector-general, U. S. Volunteers, reported to me ; 
aboard the steamship Santiago, pursuant to oiders from the corps commander, 
on June 13 last, as my assistant. Ho is still attached to these headquarter.s, hut, 
from one cause or another, chiefly inaptitude, has not done one full day's duty 
since reporting. Aboard ship he either assigned nausea or fear of seasickness 
as an excuse for not accompanying when the lower hold was inspected, soldiers 
exercised, etc., so he did not inspect any when we were at sea. I tried verbally 
to impart to him some elemental ideas of what his duties might be. He fell 
asleep in his chair. Several captains of more than a quarter of a century of mil- 
itary experience were by me introduced to Major McLeary and requested to teach 
him what constituted a soldier s eipiipment, what the component articles of the 
rations were, etc. Many army officers were more than willing to post and advise 
him. He preferred to read novels, and made no effort to actpiaint hinxself with 
the contents of professional text-books loaned him. Prior to landing in Ciiba he 
said he had no outfit except a trunk containing, among other things, an evening- 
dress siiit and a presentation sword. He also said that he had no money to meet 
his mess expenses with. This lack of funds has been painfully apparent ever 
since. The division commander told him that he had no duty or place for him; 
that if he went to the front he did so at his peril, and he was advised to eqiiip 
himself before proceeding to the front. So he remained aboard ship until the 
captain of the transport, tired of messing him, told him that General Shatter 
wanted evtn-y man armed with a sword on the firing line. Our scanty stock of 
mess supplies has been heavily drained upon by this 250-poimder ever since. His 
obesity, boils, and very numerous bodily ills have been assigned as excuses for 
the nonperformance of such duties as inspecting latrines, sink-holes, etc. The 
sick report has been his refuge several times. He bought a horse on credit and 
ingratiated from Miss Clara Barton delicacies that might have gone to worthy 
sick soldiers. He was placed in charge of the mail, but the duty was so grudg- 
ingly, surlily, and incompletely performed that the duty was vested in another 
officer. 

ExeinpU gratia.— He was often too sick or too lazy to frank by his olficial 
indorsement soldiers' letters. He would call for a clerk to do it for him. With 
all these deficiencies he was, and probably is, more vociferous in regard to what 
he calls " his rights,"' than anyone here. He does not want to leave Cuba. He 
says fortunes will be made here. He has written to the corps commander that, 
as a lawyer and ex-judge, he would like to have a place found for him in Santiago, 
or words to that effect. He has also written to Gen. L. Wood, military governor, 
to be taken onto his staff. He makes no pretense of concealment of the fact that he 
is in Cuba for what there is in it for the syndicate, or corporation, or company 
that he represents, rather than for the performance of the military duties for 
which he is paid, but of his ignorance of which he is complacently unconscious. 
■Deaths are increasing so rapidly that slight attention is paid to the three vol- 
leys and taps. Orders have finally been issued prohibiting these ceremonies, lest 
a depressing effect be produced by the demonstration. Heavy rains are frequent. 
They change the well-tramped earth into • • gumbo. "' The gumbo of Cuba is just as 
bad as that of the region intermediate between Texas and Montana. If possible, 
it is even more tenacious. A soldier of the Thirty-fourth Michigan Volunteers is 
unofficially said by the attending surgeon to have died of nostalgia. Blue sus- 
penders of a shade to match the dark-blue flannel shirt are recommended. They 
would harmonize better with the army shirt than any other color would, and be 
just as cheap. Honorably discharged soldiers are inquiring as to how they can 
get proper discharge and negotialjle final statement papers. There are few, if any, 
here, and the men find difficulty in getting transportation back to the United 
States. Applications for sick leave on surgeon's certificate of disability are becom- 



INHFECTI*>N RETORTS. 385 

ing freqnent. An impression prevails that letters from Cuba are being quaran- 
tined, owing to apprehensions regarding yellow fever. Some regularitj" now 
attaches to the incoming mail, but no one knows whether our letters are regu- 
larly forwarded. I had a large canteen made in Tampa of the size and kind used 
in Arizona twenty odd years ago. It is covered first with saddler's felt one-half 
inch thick, then with several thicknesses of blue flannel. After the outside 
becomes saturated the canteen keeps water cool much longer than the little 
canvas-covered ones do. The canteen has an orifice about lA inches in diameter, 
and is slung by a brt)ad leather strap. Until recently I have kept the screw cap 
off. so as to aid in lowering the temperature of the water. The other night a 
tree frog made his aquatic home in my canteen. The animal was not discovered 
until after the canteen had been refilled with boiling water. I shall always 
keep my canteen closed now. Lizards, swifts, tree toads, frogs, etc., are very 
common and very sociable about our tents. The sabretasche is a useful article 
for any staff officer in the field. The authorization for its issue and use as a por- 
tion of the equipment for regimental and battalion staff officers is recommended. 

The first-aid packets possess a value not at first appreciated. The soldiers now 
eagerly seek for and carefully care for them. So many officers of the Thirteenti. 
United States Infantry are off duty that at date that regiment is commanded by 
its senior officer present for duty, to wit. First Lieut. Marion B. Saffold. We 
hear that Col. Alfred T. Smith, Thirteenth, is in Cuba. 

In ilhistration of our ignorance of what is or is to be, further in instance of what 
may be termed camp rumors, still further because I am on sick report, confinetl 
to my hammock, one more unit in the long list of Cuban-fever victims, I lie and 
record what is alleged. The Fifth Army Corps, being acclimated, will soon 
attack Havana. The Fifth Army Corps, being exhausted, will be sent to the 
United States. The well men only of the Fifth Corps will (will not) be sent to 
Long Island. Comment: Incentives are thus offered to the well to get sick, or to 
the sick to get well. Take your choice. It is a mere matter of volition. Yellow 
fever exists and soldiers have died in camp from it. No well-defined case of 
yellow fever has yet appeared outside of Siboney among the troops. 

Public opinion in the United States demands a vigorous prosecution of this wai 
until all of the Spanish forces in Cuba and Porto Rico have been subjected. 
Public opinion in the United States is satisfied with what has already been 
accomplished. 

High medical authority in the United States says: " Stay in Cuba; you can not 
be permitted to land anywhere in the United States lest you infect the country 
with yellow fever. You are pariahs.'' Equally good medical authority in Cuba 
says: '^ If the Fifth Army Corps is kept in Cuba from 20 to 70 per cent of the 
command will be dead by October 1. The only chance for exemption lies in 
prompt removal to a northern climate." 

To be free from malarial feveis camp on high ground, says one medical expert; 
whereupon another medical expert points to the fact that the First United States 
Infantry, encamped on ground 1,000 feet above the level, has suffered more from 
sickness than the Twenty-first United States Infantry, which has lower camping 
ground than any. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Philip Readk, 
Major, Inspector-Oeneral, U. S. Volunteers. 

7833— VOL. 1 25 



38(1 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Report of effective strength First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 

JULY 10, 1898. 





Effective strength. 


Without arms. 


Sick. 




OflBcera. 


Men. 


Officers. 


Men. 




1 

8 












3i' 




i 

2 
48 
101 


1 




5 
4 






76 
65 
50 


i,627 
1,376 
1.20S 


99 




95 






1!) 












Total 


200 


4,242 


9 


152 


214 







Mr. Meiioz, \olunteor aid, absent, wounded; one prisoner on parole. 

JULY 15, 1898. 



Organization. 


Eflfective strength. 


Without arms. 


Sick. 


Officers. 


Men. 


Officers. 


Men. 


Officers. Men. 




1 
9 














27 




1 

42 
49 








5 
4 




4 




75 
60 
52 


1,954 
1,575 
1,161 




125 






36 






65 




35 










Total 


197 


4,717 


9 


157 




200 







Gain, Maj. M. C. Hutchins, chief quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers; one prisoner on pai-ole. 

JULY 20, 1898. 



General officers 


1 
9 














30 




1 
42 
50 
62 
26 








5 
4 
4 
2 






Fir.st r.rigade 


67 
51 
27 


1,702 

1,295 

562 


12 
6 

5 


378 


Second Brigade 


289 


Third Brigade 


150 






Total 


155 


3,589 


15 


181 


23 


817 







Nintli Infantry on duty at Santiago; Twenty-first Infantry on duty at Siboney 
Michigan Volunteer Infantry attached to Third Brigade; one prisoner on parole. 

JULY 25, 1898. 



Thirty-fourth 



General officers 


1 
9 












1)1 vi.sion stall' 


30 




1 
42 
52 
68 
26 






Division hospital 


5 
4 

5 






First Brigade 


57 
54 
25 


1,637 

1,140 

464 


20 
4 
9 


440 


Second Brigade 


427 


Third Brigade 


275 








Total 


146 


3,271 


14 


189 


33 


1 142 







TSfiuth Infantry on duty at Santiago; Twenty-fourth Infantry on duty at Sibonev: six companies 
Ihirty-fourth Michigan Volunteer Infantry on duty with Third Brigade; one prisoner on parole. 



JULY 31, 



General officers 


1 
5 










Division slaB' 


39 






4 




Division ho.spital 


5 
6 


42 
52 
43 
26 




First Brigade 


68 
57 
20 


1,555 

1,169 

471 


9 ! 
4 


468 
423 


Second Brigade 


Third Brigade 


i 


250 




Total 


151 


3,234 


15 


163 


23 


1,148 





Ninth Iniantry on duty at Santiago; Twenty-fourth Infantry on duty at Siboney; six companies 
Tt^!*" v i"^ * J^'chigan Volunteer Infantry on duty with Third Brigade; attached, three enlisted 
men, Volunteer bignal Corps included. & . . 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 387 

[HeadqnarterH First Division, Fifth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. J. Ford Kent, U. S. Volunteers, 

Commauding.] 

Steamship Santiago, off Santiago de Cuba, 16 Miles Distant, 

Thursday, June 2j^, 1898. 
The Inspector-General, U. S. Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to report as follows: In compliance with paragraph 13, 
Special Orders, No. 118, current series, Headquarters Adjutant-General's Office, I 
reported in person to Brig. Gen. J. Ford Kent, commanding First Division, Fifth 
Army Corps, at Tampa, Fla.. oOth ultimo, for staff duty, and was by him, under 
the title of captain. Third United States Infantry, assigned to duty as inspector- 
general of said di\asion. This per General Order, No. 3, Headquarters First 
Division, Fifth Ai-my Corps, dated Tampa, Fla., May 30, 1898. Official copy of 
this order is herewith inclosed. I accepted the appointment of inspector-general 
of volunteers, with rank of major, on May 30, and the order above quoted was 
modified as to title only, but not as to assignment, on the following day, by 
extract 3, General Orders, No. 4, Headquarters First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 
Tampa, Fla., 31st May, 1898. Official copy of this order is inclosed herewith, and 
has been confirmed, I believe, by orders from headquarters of the Ai-my, dated 
June 8, 1898. 

On Monday, 13th June, Maj. James H. McLeary reported to me, pursuant to an 
order, of which the following is a copy: 

General Orders, ) Hdqrs. First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 

I On Board Steamship Santiago. 

No. 6. ) Tampa Bay, Fla., June 13, 1898. 

[Extract.] 
******* 
1. Maj. James H. McLeary, inspector-general United States Volunteers, having 
reported at these headquarters in compliance with paragraph 3, Special Orders, 
No. 18, ctirrent series. Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, is announced as assist- 
ant to the inspector-general of the di\asion. 
By command of Brigadier-General Kent: 

A. C. Sharpe, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Major McLeary informs me that he entered the Confederate service at the 
age of 14 years, and served as a private for four years. He says this comprises 
his military exijerience. He further says that he is 53 years old; that he was 
associate justice of the Supreme Court of Montana' for two years, and that he 
has practiced law in San Antonio, Tex., for about twenty-five j^ears. 

As I am to perform the duties of provost-marshal of the division, also to select 
and assign the camping grounds, I would prefer to have as an assistant a 
younger, more experienced, and more active man. Major McLeary has been 
assigned by me to elemental duties, loaned such text-books as I have, introduced 
to experienced line and other officers willing to advise and aid him. This with 
the hope, rather than the expectation, that he will qualify himself for some of 
the field duties of his position. Unless otherwise directed by authority higher 
than the division commander, Major McLeary will not accompany the First 
Division when it makes its initial landing in Cuba. He has no camp outfit or 
essentials beyond his uniform. 

The command to which I am assigned received orders to break camp at about 
9 o'clock p. m. of Tuesday, Jxme 7. 

Prior to that date I visited Port Tampa three times. Port Tampa is about 9 
miles from Tampa. The First Divi.sion, Fifth Corps, was encamped on or near 
Tampa Heights, a sand region about 3 miles from Tampa. 



388 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

My piii-pose in visiting Port Tampa was to familiarize myself with the ways 
whereby the transports were fitted up to shelter and carry men and animals from 
the United States to Santiago de Cuba, or whatever other region it was proposed 
to invade; also to witness the methods of the supply departments in loading the 
transports, etc. 

Berths were placed in 3 tiers; length and width varied. Some were longitu- 
dinally divided by a board set on edge and running lengthwise; some were not 
so separated. Some groupings allowed 6 men, some 3. This disparity was una- 
voidable, owing to structural lines of the ships. Bottom of lower berth in all 
cases sufficiently raised to admit of air space between it and the deck. Distances 
not uniform. Occupant of the upper berth could generally sit upriglit, but the 
occupant of the second or third berth could not keep his spine vertical. In some 
vessels heads of berth wei'e close to mangers or feed boxes. 

Bathing facilities. — Hose-pipe method in some transports, as the Oriz((ha, 
Twenty-second Infantry; shower standijipe, as the Santiago, Ninth Infantry and 
First Battalion Tenth Infantry. In the cockpit of the Santiago the shower bath 
was used more commonly by the officers than the one in the regular bathroom. 
It was most refreshing, and was liberally patronized. When bathing in the open 
sea under proper restrictions as to tide, hours, and distance, Capt. Charles P. 
Leighton, Ward Line, 113 Wall street, New York, captain of the Santiago, a sea- 
faring man by vocation, states that no' shark will ever attack a moving man in 
the water. He emphatically says that there is no danger whatever from sharks, 
provided the man keeps in motion. 

Badges or insignia should be required to be worn on the left side of campaign 
hats by all persons in the military service. Owing to the fore-and-aft crease, the 
front is not the best place to wear campaign-hat devices — the ends stick oiit and 
catch. At Mobile the Fourth Corps di-illed, etc., in dark-blue shirts \\'ithout 
blouses; at Tampa the Fifth Corps did the same. All officers and men wore the 
campaign hat, devoid of anything to show arms of the service, corps, division, 
oi'ganization, or rank. Such uniformity is too uniform. It is inconsistent with a 
profession where rank, grade organization, arms, etc., is supposed to be indicated 
by insignia rendering it possible to tell a general from a private. It is recom- 
mended that the wearing of such be permitted in yellow silk iipon the collar of 
the dark-blue flannel shirt, and that metal or other device — fabric even — be 
requii'ed upon the campaign hat. 

SIGNALING. 

Army Regulations, 1544, embodies the following: 

"Department commanders will require suitable instrvictions and practice in 
military signaling in their departments. To this end, they will cause a signal 
officer to be detailed at each post, who will give necessary instruction and super- 
vise field practice during at least two months of the year. C(3nstant instruction 
will be maintained until at least one officer and four enlisted men of each com- 
pany are proficient in the exchange of both day and night signals by flag, torch, 
and heliograph. The detail will be changed from time to time."' 

The value of aerial signaling and the wisdom of detailing to each vessel of the 
fleet a practical signalman has never in my experience been so well exemplified 
as during the voyage from Tampa to Santiago de Cuba. June 8 to 24. 

The transports, about thirty in n.uml^er, carried in the aggregate, say, 15,U0U offi- 
cers and soldiers, mostly from the permanent military establishment of the United 
States, convoyed by fourteen naval vessels. The order of cruising was in two 
divisions, each containing three parallel columns. Each division included fifteen 
transports, preceded and flanked by war vessels. The prescribed interval between 
columns was 800 yards. The transports were ordered to be kept 400 yards apart, 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 389 

stern to bow, and the distance from tlie rear of the first division to the leading- 
transport of the second division was also 800 yards. Thus tlie depth from the 
bow of the leading transport of each column to the stern of the rear transpoi't 
of the second division was normally 4,000 yards. To this must be added the 
distance between tail of the column and the naval vessels acting as rear guar<l. 
To obtain the actual depth, add also the length of twelve vessels, viz, ten trans- 
ports and two war A^essels. 

The frontage or lateral width of entire fleet was 4,800 yards plus the width of 
the vessels themselves. Inclosed with, this report will be found a diagram, scale 
1 inch to 1,000 yards, showing the order of cruising. I also inclose an incomplete 
list of transjiorts, giving also what I understand to be the computation of the 
Quartermaster's Department as to their carrying capacity. The names of the 
vessels of the Navy Department provided as escort for the fleet of invasion also 
accompany. The following is an extract from General Orders, No. 2, Headqiiar- 
ters United States Forces, Tampa. Fla., May 2, 1898: 

'' Signal detachment. — A signal detachment to be commanded by Fii*st Lieut. 
Frank Green, Signal Corps, at these headquarters is organized as follows: 
Fourteen enlisted men of the First Infantry to be selected by Lieutenant Green, 
and two men from each of the regiments of infantry constituting the two brig- 
ades of the infantry division, to be selected by the commanding officers of their 
regiments from thoroughly instructed men, if such can be found. The men of 
the signal detachment hereby constituted will remain with their respective com- 
mands for (piarters and rations, will be excused from all duties, and will report 
at the camp of the First Infantry to Lieiitenant Green for instrviction in signal- 
ing at siTch hours as may be requested by him." 

Not^\'ithstanding• these and other regulations and orders the practical ineffi- 
ciency of many of the signal detachments was made obvious the 13th of June and 
later. Aboard the Santiago Naval Cadet Herbert G. Sparrow, of Ohio, a mem- 
ber of the second class, United States Naval Academy, on leave, en roiite to the 
Marhlehead, showed himself efficient, not only in the International Code of Sig- 
nals, but also in the Ai-my Myer Code. He bids fair to be a valuable officer: and 
Capt. Charles P. Leighton, captain of the Santiago, Ward Line, 113 Wall .street, 
New York, says that Naval Cadet Sparrow has been of great use to him. The 
young man spends about seventeen hours daily in the pilot house. 

As a signal officer of nine years' experience I feel qualified to express an opinion 
as to merit in the specialty. The tendency of an infantryman or other combatant 
soldier detailed as a signalman is to use a two-jointed staff and 4-foot sipiare flag 
for transmitting a message at a range not, perhaps, exceeding a thousand yards, 
whereas a 2-foot flag and tip joint of staff" is all that is requisite. The soldier 
will also use the appliance last named as a means of conmiunication and feel 
helpless without it at a 300 or 400 yard range when the use of a handkerchief, 
hat, glove, etc., is adequate for aerial communication. A trouble with the aver- 
age army post method of instruction in military signaling is that men are not 
taught to be independent of the appliances ordinarily issued by the signal depart- 
ment. Protracted use of a wand as a medium of communication up to 300 yards 
begets the sulistitution 1)y. say, a scout, of a stick, t^vig, bough, or his head gear. 
Company H, Third United States Infantry, includes some men who have hien 
taught to utilize about any portable thing for wigwagging up to and including 
v/liat riflemen call short ranges. The utility of such for ground scouts who have 
acquired information which they wish to silently report to the organization from 
which they have been detailed for purposes of observation, etc., is obvious. 

When this fl.eet pulled out from Port Tampa, Fla., into the stream. Monday, 
June 13, and from that time to the present, the only method of communication 
between the 15,000 land combatants and the to me unknown number of naval 



390 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

combatants aboard the nearly 50 moving vessels composing it, was by signals. 
Here, then, came the crucial test. Fortunately, every vessel had, I believe, a 
practical signalist of the Signal Corps aboard it; also naval cadets; but at the 
oittset, "repeat message" was often demanded or made necessary, and the dem- 
onstration of practical inefficiency by army details of signalmen in many cases 
to either correctly send, receive, or translate a simple message at short range was 
not creditable to army instructors. The appreciative value of the American sol- 
dier can justly be commented on in this connection. Before three days at sea 
had lapsed, the men detailed for signal duties "caught on." They did not need 
to be tv/ice told that signaling was a valuable adjunct of the military naval serv- 
ice. Of their own volition some of them perfected themselves, theoretically, in 
the army and in the international codes, then energetically went to work to prac- 
tice and observe, so that, at date, the Fifth Army Corps has some fair, all-roun(3 
signalmen in it, not all of whom are jirivates either. 

CONDITION OP ARMS AND ACCOUTERMENTS. 

The oxidation of all metallic portions of a soldier's equipment after a sea voy- 
age, in-otracted as this has been, or at least aboard sliip, 9th to 29th instant, a 
period of fifteen days, and not yet concluded, sxTggests that the Ordnance Depart- 
inerit be requested to supply, say, Belmontyle or other oil to jirevent rusting and 
conseqxTent injury to rifle boxes, etc. Belmontyle oil is not a lubricant. It pre- 
serves iron and steel from rusting, just as blue ointment, as used by the Medical 
Department, preserves steel siirgical instruments from being affected by exposure. 

SANITARY PRECAUTIONS. 

The Morning Report book shows that there are 776 officers and men of the 
United States Army aboard the Santiago at date and hour of writing. The regi- 
mental commander. Ninth United States Infantry, 473 men, 25 officers, is Lieut. 
Col. Ezra P. Ewers. 

Maj. Richard Eskridge commands the battalion — Companies A, B, F, and H, 
Tenth Infantry— 306 men, 9 officers. 

Accompanying these commanders in their daily inspections, the undesirableness 
of the floor gratings upon the lower decks v>7as suggested on sanitary grounds. 
The gratings were cut up and thrown overboard. In explicit terms, the gratings 
were crisscross upper floorings intended to serve the same purpose as in some 
horse or electric cars, raising the feet about 1^ inches from the deck floor below; 
but in city lines of transportation the floor gratings are daily raised and the floors 
below swept and washed, after which the grating is replaced. 

Aboard ship it is said to be imiu-acticable to raise the floor deck gratings, hence 
imdesirable matter aggregates— can't be gotten at. A slushy, smelly condition 
follows, and possible results were prevented by the course above reported. Since 
then the decks have been daily hose-piped oft'. 

Rations. 

This command has officially subsisted upon the travel ration for ten days: that 
is to say, an uncounted number of men have received nutriment solely from the 
constituent articles and specified amounts of certain comestibles since the receipt 
of the order from competent authority. This food issue has inckided canned 
roast beef, probably brawn, a most welcome addition to the canned corned beef 
and beans, to which the men were previously confined. 

Inquiries among the company commanders develop one uniform recommenda- 
tion, viz, that a desiccated vegetable or fruit "bowel opener" be added to the 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 3*Jl 

ration for the benefit of the costive. In this I concur. Both the fourteen days' 
field rations and the ten days' travel rations ordered by the coii^s commanders to 
be carried will be exhausted this evening. 24th of June. 

WATER. 

On June 13 the Santiago received from the Olivetie what Captain Leigliton told 
me increased his supply of fresh water to 50.000 gallons of water from Petersburg; 
crew, about 50; military men, 777. Six days later the forward tank gave out. 
Captain Leighton said that it had contained about 25.000 gallons. At date the 
ice supply is exhausted, and all are drawing upon the rear tank or tanks. So far 
the water has been excellent. Conference with the chief surgeon of the division 
fails to develop any ailment due to the inefficient or impure water. 

SINKS. 

The sinks admit of dejecta from eight, or at worst, ten soldiers and four ofi&cers 
(using ladies" cabin) simultaneou.sly. Add the element of seasickness and nausea, 
the result is as might be expected under cover. 

STATIONERY NEEDED. 

The paucity of office stationery of every kind is severely, even absurtUy. felt. 
There is not a quire of paper or package of envelopes, I am told, at the headquar- 
ters. There is certainly none for issue. I request that an adequate supply of 
stationery of every kind suitable for use in the field, including such official text- 
books and record books, particularly manifold books and carbon sheets and 
pads, be sent to me by mail. The United States mail will follow us when nothing 
else will. 

CLERK AND MESSENGER WANTED. 

I also reqtiest that a competent clerk and messenger be assigned me by the hon- 
orable Secretary of War. 

As has been stated, the troops — nine regiments of infantry, eight regulars, one 
volunteers — are scattered throiighout several transports of this fleet. General 
Orders, No. 5. Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, Tampa, Fla.. was issued by Major- 
General Shaffer th^. day after I reported for duty at these headquarters. We have 
been on transports for more than fifteen days. No general inspection of the First 
Division. Fifth Army Corps, has been made by me since my assignment. None 
can be made until the troops are landed and mobilized. In general terms, it gives 
me pleasiire to report that the conduct, discipline, and ajiparent efficiency of offi- 
cers and of the troops of the regiments of this command has been, and is, such as 
to justify the highest expectations as to results should conflict occur, or should 
the command be subjected for a weary period to the unusual climatic and other 
perils incident to this locality. 

CLOTHING. 

So far as I know all of the troops of the regular service composing this army 
of invasion are provided with the clothing as issued by the Quartermaster's 
Department. Colonel Wood's regiment — the organization poj^ularly known as 
'•Teddy's Rough Riders," Lieut. Col. Theodore Roosevelt — now dismounted. I 
understand had kliaki-colored cotton suits, issued in San Antonio; but the gi'eat 
majority of the combatants here are clad in dark-blue flannel shirts, etc. Some 
have bought dark-colored cotton shirts. At Mobile, April 21 to May 5, my exi^eri- 
ence inclined me to the belief that the dark-blue flannel shirt was best adapted to 



31)2 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

that locality during the period indicated. This because of excessive precipitation 
from sunset to sunrise and conse(iuent hiimidity when the temperature rose; but 
here similar conditions do not exist, nor did they at Tampa. 

Qualifying my conclusions by the admission that my southern experience has 
been brief; further, that the past fifteen days have been spent afloat, I recommend 
that 13,000 suits of light outer clothing be sent for the use of this command. The 
chief surgeon of this division, Maj. M. W. Wood, Medical Department, U. S. 
Army, concurs in this recommendation. If I quote him correctly, he believes that 
a light woolen garment should be worn next to the skin, also a body belt or belly- 
band of same, in preference to a skin garment of light wool or cotton. Troops 
aboard ship have no adequate way of washing and laundering their clothing. 

SHOES. 

The soil of Cuba at this season is understood to be damp. This means swelled 
feet and the consequent sufferings incident to too tight shoes. Perhaps an inner 
sole of light cork would tend to palliate the excruciating discomfort of corns, 
enlai-ged joints, etc. Those who have not recourse to a chiropodist know how to 
appreciate comfortable foot gear. 

PONCHOS. 

The slit if too large sluices rain water inside instead of oiitside the Ijody of the 
soldier. An elastic or collar attachment would tend to reduce to a minimum this 
discomfort. 

DRILL AND CALISTHENICS ABOARD THE SANTIAGO — DESCRIPTION OF THE STEAMSHIP. 

Commencing morning June 24, the Ninth Infantry and the four companies 
comprising the battalion of the Tenth Infantry aboard, began, ofticers included, 
setting-up exercises, file marchings in quick and double time, etc. The tonnage 
of the Santiago is about 1,695 net; length between perpendiculars, aboiit 275 feet; 
beam, 39 feet; the vessel was built at Chester, Pa., in 1879, by John Roach & 
Son; cost, aboirt $325,000; iron hull; 43 staterooms; 86 berths; allowed 104 passen- 
gers, of which 86 can be rated first cabin. The Santiago is certified to August 11 , 
1897, New York, as having 5 lifeboats, 4 rafts, 5 metal lifeboats, 158 cork life pre- 
servers, 500 feet of hose, 3 hand fire inimjis, 90 fire buckets, 4 main stairways to 
upper deck, and possesses a guni)owder iron comi^artnient in the power hold for- 
ward of the collision bulkhead. Captain Leighton informs me that he caused the 
latter to be filled with fresh water sixteen days ago, and felicitates himself that 
he did so (further, that the collision compartment proved water-tight), as he 
obtained about 19,000 gallons of drinking water thereby. It is not amiss to here 
state that, both officially and personally. Captain Leighton, New York and Cuba 
Mail (Ward) Steamship Line, has merited the thanks of this command by his 
efforts to do all possible for the comfort and general welfare of his military 
passengers. 

AN INCIDENT. 

Two shots were directed at the transport Santiago at 9 to 9.05 o'clock a. m. of 
Wednesday , June 22. The vessel was at that time passing the mouth of the narrow 
channel leading into the harbor of Santiago de Cuba. Our headway was 11 knots 
an hour, and the transport was fully 5 miles from where the Texas, Commodore 
W. S. Schley's flying squadron, was bombarding the Spaniards. Columns of 
smoke were rising along the shore. Daiquiri, a village 15 miles east of Santiago 
de Cuba, was burning. When underway for Cabanas, a place G miles west of 
Santiago de Cuba, we were seen by the artillerists on Punta Garda, an elevation 
1 mile from the mouth of the channel. The first shot struck the water about 350 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 



393 



yards from the steamshii). The second, a liner, apparently passed over our 
smokestacks. It harmlessly struck about 200 to 325 yards beyond us. 

It may be of interest or value to the Inspector-C^reneral's Department to know 
of the composition of the naval escort convoying the Fifth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. 
W. R. Shaffer, U. S. Volunteers, commanding, from Key West to Santiago de 
CiTba. Following is approximately correct. Exact sources of official information 
are not open to me. 
Escort from Key West. Fla., June 12, 1898, to Santiago de Cuba, June 24, 1898: 

1 Indiana. 16 guns. Capt. H. C. Taylor. 

T Detroit, 10 guns. Commander J. H. Dayton. 

A. C Scorpion, Lieut. Commander A. Marix. 

V Vesuvius, Lieut. Commander J. E. Pillsbury. 

E Helena, 8 guns. Commander W. T. Swinburne. 

N Castine, 8 guns. Commander R. M. Berry. 

H Annapolis, 6 guns. Commander J. J. Hunker. 

A. T Panther, Commander G. C. Reiter. 

A. H Hornet, Lieut. Jas. M. Helm. 

N. G Manning, Capt. F. M. Hunger. 

K Bancroft, 4 guns. Commander R. Clover. 

N. W Wompatuck, Lieut. C. W. Jungen. 

A. E Eagle. Lieut. W. H. H. Southerland, 

A. W Wasp. Lieut. A. Ward. 



FIRST DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS. 

Brig. Gen. J. Ford Kent, commanding. 

Brig. Gen. H. S. Hawkins, U. S. Volunteers, commanding First Brigade: 

Sixth United States Infantry, commanded by Lieut. Col. Harry C. Egbert. 

Sixteenth United States Infantry, commanded by Col. Hugh H. Theaker. 

Seventy-first New York Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Col. W. H. 
Downs. 
Col. E. P. Pearson, Tenth United States Infantry, commanding Second Brigade: 

Tenth United States Infantry, commanded by Lieut. Col. E. R. Kellogg. 

Twenty-first United States Infantry, commanded by Col. C. McKibben. 

Second United States Infantry, commanded by Col. W. M. Wherry. 
Lieut. Col. W. H. Worth, Thirteenth United States Infantry, commanding Third 
Brigade: 

Thirteenth United States Infantry, commanded by Maj. P. H. Ellis. 

Ninth United States Infantry, commanded by Lieut. Col. E. P. Ewers. 

Twenty-fourth United States Infantry, commanded by Col. E. H. Lisnan. 
Since the foregoing was written Colonel Wikoff, Twenty-second Infantry, 
relieved Lieutenant-Colonel Worth, commanding brigade. 

Transports for Fifth Army Corps from Port Tampa, Fla., June 9 to 20, 1S9S. 



Vessels. 



Capacity, 
infantry. 



Horses 
or mules. 



Remarks. 



1. Mi.ami 

2. Santiago . 

3. Gussie — 

4. Cherokee. 

5. Seneca 

6. Alamo ... 

7. Comal 

8. Yucatan. 

9. Berkshire 

10. Whitney . 

11. Olivette.. 



B 
C 
D 
F 
G 
H 

J 

K 
L 

M 

IS 



950 
950 
100 
1, 000 
900 
900 

775 
950 
300 
100 
400 



176 



174 
"i5' 



Ordnance and 
ueer Corps. 



Hospital ship. 



Engi- 



o94 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Transpoiisfo)- Fifth Army Corpn from Port Tampa, Fla., etc. — Continued. 



Vessels. 




Capacity, 
infantry. 


Horses 

or mules. 


Remarks. 




P 

T 
V 
W 


Corps. 

950 

1,300 

900 

450 

1,100 

304 

950 

1,250 

1,250 

1,200 

900 










and staff. 














IG. Allegheny 1 


190 
26 








18. D. H Miller 




































23. Orizaba 


























26. Stillwater ... 














500 














29. Manteo 










30. Florida 








Disabled ; left behind. 













The comx^osition of the Second Division. Fifth Army Corps, has been changed 
as regards the commander. Brig. Gen. A. R. Chaffee, U. S. Volunteers, announced 
in orders last received here. There is some doubt whether Brig. Gen. Robert H. 
Hall, U. S. Volunteers, accompanies this corps of invasion, but the following is 
approximately correct: 



SECOND DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS. 

Brig. Gen. H. W. Lawton, U. S. Volunteers, commanding. 

Col. J. J. Van Horn, commanding brigade: 

Eighth United States Infantry, Maj. E. M. Conrad. 
Twenty-second United States Infantry, Lieut. Col. J. H. Patterson. 
Second Massachusetts Infantry, Col. E. P. Clark. 
Second Brigade, Brig. Gen. Robert H. Hall, U. S. Volunteers, commanding: 
First United States Infantry. Col. Evan Miles. 
Fourth United States Infantry, Lieut. Col. A. H. Brainbridge. 
Twenty-fifth United States Infantry, Lieut. Col. A. S. Daggett. 
Third Brigade, Brig. Gens. Adna R. Chaffee or John N. Andrews, U. S. Volunteers, 
commanding: 
Seventh United States Infantry, Col. D. W. Benliam. 
Twelfth United States Infantry, Lieut. Col. Richard Comba. 
Seventeenth United States Infantry, Lieut. Col. J. T. Haskell. 
Independent Brigade. Brig. Gen. John C. Bates, commanding: 

Third United States Infantry, Col. John H. Page. 
Dismounted Cavalry Division, Maj. Gen. J. Wheeler. 

Regiments or squadrons, regulars: First, Second, Third, Sixth, Ninth, 
Tenth; volunteers: First Rough Riders. 
Ai-tillery, Maj. J. W. Dillenbeck, commanding: 

Light Batteries E and H, First; A and F, Second; also, battalion engineers. 
Location Twentieth United States Infantry is unknown to me at date of writing. 
Appended is the composition of headquarters, First Division, Fifth Army Corps, 
June 20, 1898, aboard steamship Santiago, off Santiago de Cuba: 
Brig. Gen. J. Ford Kent, U. S. Volunteers, commanding First Division. 
Maj. Philip F. Harvey, Medical Department, U. S. Army, chief surgeon, (sick; 
will not be able to march). 

Maj. M. W. Wood. Medical Department, U. S. Army, in charge of Division 
Hospital No. 1. 



INSPECTION RKPOKTS. 305 

Maj. Philip Reade, U. S. Volunteers, iiispector-geuertil of First Division and 
provost-iiiarshall. 

Maj. A. C. Sharpe, U. S. Volunteers, assistant adjutant-general ot First Division. 

Maj. James H. McLeary, U. S. Volunteers, assistant to inspector-general of the 
First Division. 

Capt. U. G. Alexander, U. S. Volunteers, quartermaster of the division. 

Capt. Elmore F. Taggart, U. S. Volunteers, commissary. 

Capt. Frank G. Lord, U. S. Volunteers, assistant to commissary of the Division. 

Caj)t. R. W. Johnson, assistant siirgeon. Medical Department, U. S. Army, 
Division Hospital No. 1. 

Capt. Guy C. M. Godfrey, assistant surgeon Medical Department, U. S. Army, 
acting assistant qiiarter master, acting commissary of subsistence, in charge First 
Company Hospital Corps, Fifth Corps. 

Hamilton P. Jones, acting assistant surgeon, U. S. Army, immune expert. 

Fred J. Combe, acting assistant surgeon. U. S. Army, immune. 

Second Lieut. Fred. L. Munson, Ninth Infantry, U. S. Army, in charge guard 
detachment. 

First Lieut, George P. Cartwi-ight, Twenty-fourth United States Infantry, 
aid-de-camp, acting judge-advocate. 

First Lieut. William P. Jackson, Twenty-fourth United States Infantry, aid- 
de-camp, ordnance officer, volunteers. 

Lieut. U. C. Miner, aid-de-camp, acting engineer officer. 

Naval Cadet Herbert G. Sparrow, of Ohio, signal officer on Santiago. 

Mr. Sparrow informs me that his mother is named Mrs. Amelia Sparrow. 135 
Putnam street, Cleveland, Ohio. He stands at the head of his class at the Naval 
Academy; returns in September. He is a promising naval officer, and has already 
shown zeal, untiring industry, and efficiency aboard the Santiago in other lines 
than mere signaling. 

CITRIC ACID. 

The issue, or if not that, the sale by the Subsistence Department, to officers and 
enlisted men of citric acid in small air and water tight packages is recommended. 
Either the crystal or powdered form is to be preferred. Cholera germs can not 
live in citric-acid solution. Either with or without sugar, it forms a palatable 
drink. 

ITINERARY. 

June 7, Tuesday, 9 o'clock p. m., commanding general First Division received 
orders to l)reak camp and march to railroad. 

June 8, Wednesday, divison reached Port Tampa during forenoon: T)oarded 
transports. 

June 13, Monday, First Division sailed from the stream to the bar, near Egmont, 
38 miles below Tampa, and then anchored for the night. 

June 14, expedition under naval convoy started for Santiago de Cuba, 38 miles. 

June 15, Wednesday, passed between Dry Tortugas and Key West, 123 miles. 

June 16, passed Havana, Matanzas, Cardenas, Sagua la Grande, 189 miles. 

June 17, Friday, continued eastward along north coast of Cuba, 171 miles. 

June 18, latitude, noon observation, 21' 29', longitude 76' 12'; 115 miles. 

June 19, Sunday, latitude, noon observation, 20' 46' , longitude 73 49 ; 152 miles. 

June 20, latitude, noon observation, 19" 46' 30". longitude 75 45'; 151 miles. 

June 21, Tuesday, cruised and di-ifted about opposite Santiago de Cuba; 63 
miles. General Kent sent for by General Shaffer, corps commander, for orders. 

June 22, division commander returned early a. m. to the Santiago. Steamship 
fired on by battery located on Punta Gorda. 6 miles range, two shots. Bombard- 
ment visible from decks of Santiago. 



son INVKSTKIATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

JiiTie 23, Thursday, buried at sea, pneumonia, Private Frank Lessee, Company 
B, Ninth Infantry, of Watertown, N. Y. 

June 24, Friday, waiting for orders. At 3 p. m. received orders per dispatch 
boat Hornet to proceed, keeping ship near to the BrooMyn, to place opposite 
Al tares. 

Altares is 12 miles east of Santiago de Cuba, about opposite Cajobabo Point, 
little beyond Berracos Point. Altares is 6 miles west of Daiquiri and east of the 
Jaragtia River. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Philip Reade, 
Captain, Third United States Infantry, 
Major, and Inspector-General First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 



[Headquarters, First Division, Fifth Army Corps, aboard the auxiliary cruiser St. Paul, Capt. Charles 
D. Sigsbee, TJ. S. Navy, commanding.] 

In Quarantine, Office of the Inspector-General, 

Off Montauk Point, Long Island, August 15, 189S. 
The Inspector-General, United States Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

Sir: This vessel, transporting 17 officers and 70.5 men of the Second Regiment 
Infantry, U. S. Army, plus 14 officers and 344 men of the first battalion, Seventy- 
first Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry; also 10 officers and 3.5 men, divi- 
.sion headquarters, commanding general, J. Ford Kent, U. S. Volunteers, staff, 
and headquarters guard, reached Montauk Point, Long Island, at 9 o'clock a. m. 
this morning and dropped anchor ten minutes later about a mile or less from the 
shore, where other organizations of the permanent military establishment and 
of the volunteers had preceded us and were encamped. 

In the bay were the following-named transports, viz: St. Louis, Vigilancia, Gate 
City, Miami, and the Gi-and Duchesse. Three of the transports named were 
carrying troops belonging to this division. Major-General Wheeler, U. S. Vol- 
unteers, is understood to be ashore; also Brigadier-General Ames, U. S. Vol- 
unteers, the former commanding the Dismounted Cavalry Division, Fifth Army 
Corps, and the latter commanding the Third Brigade, First Division, Fifth Army 
Corps. The canvas of these respective commands is visible from the St. Paul. 
Asst. Surg. Gen. William H. Forward, Medical Department, U. S. Army, is said 
to be the senior medical officer. Each vessel, except this one, the St. Paul, was 
told to raise the yellow flag, indicating quarantine, upon inspection by the health 
or by the marine medical officers. The St. Paul was, after careful inspection, 
first by the health officials, second by the medical examiners of the Marine Serv- 
ice, given a clean bill of health. 

This gratifying result was due to the circumspection and acumen of the chief 
surgeon. First Division, Fifth Army Corps, Maj. M. W. Wood, Medical Depart- 
ment, U. S. Army, who, prior to our departure from Cuba, prevented any "sus- 
pect," or "infect," or "contact" case of yellow fever from accompanying the 
St. Paul. 

It is due to Dr. Wood to say that he admitted, 11th instant, at Guantanamo 
Bay, Cuba, that, although he had weeded out every suspicious case, such might, 
probably would, develop thiring the three or four days requisite in which to make 
the 1,300-mile voyage thence to this place. Hence every consideration suggested 
landing immediately after arrival of the St. Paul at Montauk Point. His predic- 
tions have been unfortunately verified. At 11 o'clock this morning no yellow- 
fever case was known by any of the medical experts to exist aboard the St. Paid; 
at sunset, this date, the quarantine flag was raised at our foremast. 



INSPECTION IJEI'OUTS. P>^M 

This deplorable fact could have been rendered unnecessary if the troops had 
been landed; but they could not be landed until Dr. Forward, in his official 
capacity, had been communicated with and had given his assent to the 
disembarkation. 

No official representative of Dr. Forward has inspected the St. Paul, so our 
chief svn-geon. Dr. Wood, endeavored to, by boat, go to the shore for purposes of 
conference and report. The captain of the ship, Captain Sigsbee, so honorably 
known to the American public, says that the (luarantine laws forbid intercom- 
munication between a naval vessel's passengers and the land detention author- 
ities. In plainer language. Dr. Wood can not land unless Dr. Forward says so. 
The prohibition, of course, extends to everyone aboard the St. Paul until Dr. 
Forward, who is not 3 miles away from a plain view of this cruiser, in his official 
capacity examines the occupants of the St. Paul, or sends an assistant to do so. 

The opportunity for visual signaling thus became obvious, and recommenda- 
tion was made that wigwagging or other means of communication, which should 
be familiar to ordinary signalmen, be resorted to. 

I have, with regret, to report that about three hours have been devoted to inces- 
sant effort to establish communication between this ship and the land. The 
futile efforts are due to a lack of signal-knowledge methods— lack of observation. 

Of the officers and men aboard the St. Paul, and who have been considered pro- 
ficient signalers, I fail to find more than one or two practical signalists. 

The Second Regiment, United States Infantry, to a man, is anxious to trans- 
mit and receive a simple message or two to and from the shore. The ability, not 
the inclination, is lacking. 

Lieut. Col. Edward B. Ives, United States Volunteer Signal Service, is a passen- 
ger aboard the St. Paul. 

I recommend that the Chief Signal Officer, United States Army, be advised of 
this signal and unfortunate failure to demonstrate the utility of a means of visual 
communication, a failure which is due to a lack of observance of existing reg- 
ulations, as expressed in the fifth, sixth, and seventh lines of Army Regula- 
tions 1544. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Philip Reade, 
Major, and lyispector-General, U. S. Volunteers, 

First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 



Extract from report of field inspection of the Thirteenth United States Infantry, 

at camp near Santiago de Cuba, made July 23, 1898, by Maj. Philip Reade, 

inspector-general, U. S. Volunteers. 
******* 

Troops fully equipped for field service?— No regiment needs complete outfit, 
camp, and cooking equipage. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchen, sinks, etc.?— Good. 

Camp properly located?— Yes; except the fact that it is so far distant from water, 
which has to be carried nearly 2 miles by the men. There are no facilities for haul- 
ing water. Camp is unnecessarily near to the trenches. 

Properly drained?— Yes; under the circumstances. 
******* 

Quartermaster's supplies good and sufficient?— None received since leaving 
Tampa, Fla., June 7. Regiment badly in need of many articles; also clothing. 
No fuel is furnished by the Quartermaster's Department. Dry fuel is scarce, and 
is obtained by demolishing blockhouses vacated by the Spanish, gathered by labor 
of the troops. 



308 INVESTKIATION OF CONDUCT OF WAPv V.ITII SPAIN. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient?— Regiment subsisted on travel rations 
from June 7 until the 34th. Fresh vegetables and " barrel openers" are needed. 
After landing in Cuba June 24, full ration was not furnished, but of late greater 
variety, ciuantity. and (luality of commissary supplies have been furnished. 

Ordnance supplies good and sufficient"? — Yes; fairly so. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — No. 

Strength of hospital corps siiflficient?— No. 

Number of sick in quarter?— Ten officers, 93 men, A large number of men who 
are sick are not borne on sick report. The proportion of men who are sick but 
fail to report to the surgeon is three to one. 

Sick receive proper attention?— No; no facilities for attending sick. Medical 
officer in all the regiments doing all he can under adverse circumstances. 

Any epidemic diseases? — Thermic fevers, dengue fevers, all of which are caused 

by heat and exhaustion. 

* * * * * * * 

Note 1. — Regiment needs everything ever furnished for sick men, except qui- 
nine, Epsom salts, and castor oil. Every day means loss by sickness and prostration. 

Thermic fevers, due to heat and exposure, prevail. Condition of the regiment 
is anaemic. Among the medical supplies the following are especially needed: 
Bismuth, subnitrate and gallade: salol, salicylate of soda, antipjTetis, triturates 
(iron, quinine, and strychnine), Warburg's tincture, morp. sulph. hj^io. tab., 
strychnine, and arsenic. 



Extract from report of field inspection of the Ninth United States Infantry, at 
camp in Santiago de Cuba, made July 22, 1898, by Maj. Philij) Reade, inspector- 
general, U. S. Volunteers. 

•K- «■ * * * * * 

Troops fully equipped for field service? — No; they need camp equipage of nearly 
every kind; also clothing. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Fair. 

Camp ijroperly located?— Regiment is quartered in old theater building, entirely 
unsuited for purpose. Cooking is done in the street. If the command is to be 
kept in the city, houses should be rented as quarters. 

* * * * * * * 

Quartermaster supplies good and sufficient? — Good; but not sufficient. Great 
demand for underwear. Most of the articles issued are worn-out. None received 
since leaving Tampa, Fla., Tuesday, June 7, 1898. 

Commissary suiiiilies good and sufficient? — Travel rations only from June 7 to 25. 
Men became tired of it. Full ration not supplied June 25, and date of capitula- 
tion. Men suffered and were reduced in health and strength. Present commis- 
sary supplies are improving in quantity, qitality, and increasing variety. 

Medical siipplies good and sufficient?— No; great difficulty in obtaining them. 
No cots and straw, no mattresses, no blankets, no food for the sick, and no way 
to cook it if had. 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient? — No; there are 132 men on sick report, 
which is a lieaA'y drain upon its resources. 

Police and capacity of hospital?— No hospital or sick ward. 

Sick receive proper attention?— Yes; they are attended to as well as possible. 
Conditions for proper attention are adverse. 

Any epidemic diseases?— Most of the fevers are thermic; some of the doctors 
call them " Cuban," some " dengue," some' yellow, some pernicious malarial. 
******** 

Note 1 .—The regiment is performing provost guard duty in the city of Santiago 
de Cuba. The men are badly quartered. Six companies in the theater building 



INSPECTION KEPoirrs. 31)9 

and two companies nnder sheds at the docks guarding quartermaster and com- 
missary stores. A detachment also occupies El ]\Iorro, and an island in the harbor 
on which is located a magazine, the Spanish general's residence, and three picket 
posts on roads into the country. This all in addition to a main guard from which 
patrols are furnished for the city. 



Rvtractfrom report of field inspeetion of the Second United Staten Inffuitri/, at 
camp near Santiago de Cuba, made July 20, 1898, by Maj. Pldlip Reade, inspec- 
tor-general, U. S. Volunteers. 

******* 

Any diseases ? — Most of the fevers are paludal fevers. Some are thermic, some 
yellow fever. Dysenteric and other diarrheas prevail. Some are cases of true 
dysentery. 

Troops fully equipped for field service ? — No. Many articles of camp equipage 
are required. Troops require change of clothing. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchens, sinks, etc? — Good. 

Camp properly located ? — Fairly. The position of camp has to conform with 
the location of trenches. The trenches are at present located about 1 mile distant 
from water, which has to be carried by the men. 

Properly drained ? — Fairly. 

* * * * * * * 
Quartermaster supplies good and sufficient ? — None on hand. Great demand 

for underwear ; none received since leaving Tampa, Fla., Tuesday. June 7. No 
fuel furnished by Quartermaster's Department. Dry wood mostly obtained by the 
labor of troops, who demolish blockhouses abandoned by tne Spanish to get fuel. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient V— Full rations not received since leav- 
ing Tampa, June 7. Quality is fair, except in many cases the bread was wet and 
moldy. The brigade commissary has not had stores for sale to officers. The regi- 
mental commissary has not been furnished with means or appliances to issue in 
bulk. 

Ordnance supplies good and sufficient ? — Yes, as to first ; some articles not to be 
had. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient ?— Good, but insufficient. Too limited in 
variety. No cots, no mattresses, no straw, no blankets, no food for sick — no way 
to cook it if he had. Only one hospital and one wall tent. (See note 1). 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient?— No; utterly insufficient. Three officers 
and 285 men sick. Regiment has one acting steward and three men to care for 
them. The wants of the hospital are and have been very great. 

Ambulances and stretchers, number and condition ?— No ambulance ; two 
stretchers, only one of which is good. OAving to lack of ambulances very sick 
and wounded men have had to be transported on dead-axle wagons. 

Police and capacity of hospitals ? — Good. Capacity for 20 sick. 

Ntimber of sick in hospital? — Six ; in quarters, 221. 

Sick receive proper attention?— Yes, as far as practicable. The assiduous care 
of the Medical Department officers merits the highest commendation. 

Any epidemic diseases ?— Yes ; malarial fevers, and what some of the doctors 
call Cuban or dengue fever. All are thermic fevers, due to heat and exhaustion. 

* * * # * * ^ 
Note 1 .—Regiment needs everything ever furnished for sick men except (piinine, 

epsom salts, and castor oil. Every day means loss by prostration and sickness. 



4U0 INVESTIGAM'ION OF CONDUCT OK WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Thermic and paludal fevers, dne to heat and exposure, prevail. Conditions of the 
regiment, anremic. Among other medical supplies the following are especially 
needed: Bismnth, snbnitrate and gallade, salol, salicylate of soda, antipyi'ine, 
strychnine, Warburg's tincture, morjjhine sulphate-hypo tablets, arsenic, tonic 
triturates (iron, qiTinine, and strychnine). 



Extract from report of field Inspection of the Twenty-first Regiment United States 
Infantry, made in the field near Santiago de Cuba, by Maj. Philip) Reade, 
inspector-general First Division, Fifth Army Corps, July 22, 1898. 

******* 

Any diseases? — Thermal fever, due to heat and exhaustion, prevails; also dysen- 
tery. Some of the doctors designate these low fevers as jiernicious malarial, 
dengue, and Cuban fever. 

Troops fully equipped for field service? — Yes, except clothing and tentage. 
Nearly all articles of camp equipage are required. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Good. 

Camp proiierly located? — Only fairly so. Regiment is compelled to camp in 
the vicinity of the trenches. Water is about three-quarters of a mile distant. 

Properly drained? — Fairly. 
******* 

Quartermaster's supplies good and sufficient? — None. Great demand for under- 
wear. None received since leaving Tampa, Fla., Tuesday, June 7, 1898. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient? — Good, biit insufficent. Full rations 
were not supplied during the first half of July. At present commissary supplies 
are improving in quality, also quantity, and increasing in variety. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — Fairly so. Quinine and epsom salts 
about the only drugs of which a sufficient quantity is on hand. (See note 1.) 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient? — No. 

Ambulances and stretchers, number and condition? — No ambulances, two 
stretchers. Sick remain in shelter tents. 

Police and capacity of hospital?— Police good. Capacity iinlimited, all patients 
being in the open air under shelter tents. 

Number of sick in hospital? — Eighteen. 

Number of sick in quarters? — One hundred and three. 

Sick receive proper attention? — Yes; so far as can be under present conditions. 
Conditions for proper attention are adverse. 

Any epidemic diseases?— Malarial fever. Some of the doctors call it Cuban 
fever, some call it dengue fever; all are thermal fevers, due to heat and exhaustion. 
Most of the fevers are paludal fevers. Some are thermic fever; some are yellow 
fever. Dysentery and diarrheas prevail. Some are cases of true dysentery. 

NoTR 1. — Regiment needs everything ever furnished for sick men except quinine 
and epsom salts. Following medical supplies are needed: Bismuth, subnitrate 
andgallate; salol, salicylate of soda, antipyretics, strychnine, Warbury's tincture, 
morphine sulphate-hypo tablets, arsenic, tonic triturates (iron, quinine, and 
.strychnine) . 

****** * 

Respectfully submitted. 

Philip Reade, 
Major and Inspector-General, U. S. Volunteers. 



INSPECTION KEI'OKTS. 401 

Extract from report of field inspection of the Sixteenth United States Infantry, 
made at camp near Santiago de Cuba July 22 and 23, 1S9S, by Maj. Philip Reade, 
inspector-general First Division. Fifth Army Corps, in the field. 

Troops fully equipped for field ser\ice? — Troops unable to obtain change of 
clothing, that worn at in'esent being worn ont. Nearly all articles of cami) 
e(inipage are required. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Good. 

Camp properly located? — Regiment has been ijerforming almost continuous 
duty in the trenches up to July 14. Camj) had to conform to this duty. These 
trenches and the present camp are about 1 mile distant from water, which has to 
be carried by the men. 

Properly drained? — Yes. 
******* 

Quartermaster supplies good and sufficient? — No. Great demand for under- 
wear; none received since leaving Tampa, Fla., Tuesday, June 7, 1898. No fuel 
furnished by Quartermaster's Department. Dry wood mostly obtained by the 
labor of troops, who demolish blockhouses abandoned by the Spanish to get fuel. 

Commissary supi^lies good and sufiBcient? — No. Since leaving Tampa, Fla., 
June 7. only partially supplied with travel ration. Since lea\dng Siboney, June 
27, full ration never supplied. At present commissary supplies are improving in 
quality, also quantity, and increasing in variety. 

Medical supplies good and sufiicient? — No. Good, but insuflficient, and too 
limited in variety. No cots, no mattresses, no straw, no blankets, no food for 
sick, no way to cook it if we had. (See note 1. ) 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient?— No; utterly insiifficieut. At date there 
are 198 on sick report, and it has been necessary to treat and care for many of 
these men in their o^^^l tents, where they could have the help of their comrades. 

Ambulances and stretchers, niimber and condition? — None; sick remain in their 
shelter tents. 

Police and capacity of hospitals?— No liospital; no means for one. 

Sick receive proper attention?— No. They are attended as well as possible under 
the cii-cumstances. Conditions for proper attention are adverse. 

Any epidemic diseases? — Fevers. Some of the doctors call it Cuban fever, some 
call it dengiie fever. All are thermic fevers, due to heat and exhaustion. Most 
of the fevers are paludal; some are thermic; some are yellow fever. Dysenteric 
and other diarrheas prevail. Some are cases of true dysentery. The assiduous 
care of the Medical Department officers merits the highest commendation. 

Note 1.— Regiment needs everj-thing ever furnished for sick men, except qui- 
nine, epsom salts, and castor oil. Every day means loss by prostration and 
sickness. Thermic fevers, due to heat and exposure, prevail. Condition of the 
regiment is antemic. Among other medical supplies the following are especially 
needed: Bismuth, subnitrate, and gallade; salol, salicylate of soda, antipyretics, 
strychnine, Warburg's tincture, morph. sulph. hypo tab., arsenic, tonic tritm-ates 
(iron, quinine, strychnine). 



Respectfully submitted. 

7833— VOL. 1 26 



Philip Reade, 
Major, Inspector-General, U. S. Volunteei's. 



402 lN\i:sriGATI()N of conduct of war with SPAIN. 

Extroct from report of field inspection of the Tenth United States Infantry, huule 
at camp near Santiago de Cuba Jnly 21, ISDS. by Maj. Philip Reade, inspector- 
general First Division, Fifth Army Corps, in the field. 

Troops fully equipped for field service?— No. Many articles of camp equipage 
are required; also cooking outfit. Troops imable to obtain change of clothing, 
that worn at present being worn out. Most of the articles necessary are aboard 
the transports. 

Police of tents, grotinds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Good. 

Camp properly located?— Camp is necessarily near the trenches, the regiment 
being still on guard duty. Water is about 1 mile distant, supply of which has to 
be carried by the men. 

Properly drained?— Yes; well as is possible. 
******* 

Quartermaster supplies good and sufacient?— No. Great demand for under- 
wear; none furnished since leaving Tampa, Fla., June 7, 1898. No fuel furnished 
by Quartermaster's Department. Dry wood mostly obtained by the labor of 
troops, who demolish blockhouses abandoned by the Spanish to get fuel. 

Commissary supplies good and suflacient?— No. Since leaving Tampa, Fla., 
June 7, only partially supplied with traveling rations. Since leaving Siboney, 
June 27, full rations never supplied. At present onions and jjotatoes are too often 
replaced by canned stuff. Commissary supplies are improving in quality, also in 
quantity, and increasing in variety. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — Good, but insufficient and too limited in 
variety. No cots, no blankets, no mattresses, no straw, no food for sick, no way 
to cook it if we had. (See note 1.) 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient? — No; utterly instifficient. At date there 
are 46 men and G officers on sick report. The Tenth United States Infantry is 
practically a sanitarium, with only two or three officers able to do full duty. The 
cases of sick men who are not on sick report as compared with the number of 
men who are on sick report is about as 3 to 1. 

Ambulances and stretchers, number and condition? — No ambulances; seven 
stretchers in good condition. 

Police and capacity of hospital? — Thirty men. 

Properly located? — Yes. The assiduous ca^e of the Medical Department officers 
merits the highest commendation. 

Sick receive jiroper attention? — Yes; the best possible. Conditions for proper 
attention are very adverse. 

Any epidemic diseases? — Fevers; some of the doctors call it Ciiban, some dengue 
fever. All are thermic fevers, due to heat and exhaustion. 

Note 1 . — Regiment needs everything ever furnished for sick men except quinine, 
epsom salts, and castor oil, Every day means loss by prostration and sickness. 
Thermic fever, due to heat and exposure, prevails. Condition of the regiment is 
anaemic. Among other medical supplies the following are especially needed: 
Bisnuith, subnitrate, and gallade; salol, salicylate of soda, antipyretics, strychnine, 
Warljurg's tincture, niorph. sulph. hyi^o. tab., arsenic, tonic triturates (iron, 
quinine, and strychnine). 



Respectfully submitted. 



Philip Reade, 
Major, Inspector-General, U. S. Volunteers. 



INSPECTION UEPOliTd. 403 

Extract from report of field inHpection of the Thirty-Fourth Michigan Volunteer 
Infantry, in camp near Santiago de Cuba, made July 23 and 24, 1898] by Maj. 
Philip Reade, inspector-general, U. S. Volunteers. 

Troops fully equipped for field service? — No. Nearly all articles of camp equi- 
page are required in addition to change of clothing. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Yes; fairly good. 

Camp properly located? — No: it is unnecessarily close to the trenches when we 
are still on gaiard. Water is fully a mile distant, and has to be carried by the 
men from San Juan River. 

******* 

Quartermaster supplies good and sufficient? — No. Great demand for under- 
wear; none received since leaving Tampa. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient? — No. On leaving Siboney the regi- 
ment was furnished three days' rations. Being unable to carry them, and being, 
moreover, inexperienced, the regiment abandoned a portion of these rations, and 
twenty-four hours later was almost destitute of subsistence supplies. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — No. Good, but insufficient, and too lim- 
ited in variety. No cots, no mattresses, no straw, no blankets, no food for sick, 
and no way to cook it if we had. 

Streng-th of hospital corps sufficient? — Yes. 

Ambulances and stretchers, number and condition? — None. Sick remain in 
their shelter tents. 

Number of sick in hospital? — No hospital, nor any means for one; in quarters, 
231 , 8 of whom are officers. 
• Sick receive proper attention?— As far as possible under the conditions. 

Any epidemic diseases? — Most of the fevers are paludal fevers; some are thermic, 
some are yellow fever. Dysenteric and other diarrheas are prevalent. Some are 
true cases of dysentery. 



Extract from report of field inspection of the Sixth United. States Infantry, made 
in camj) near Santiago de Cuba July 19, 189S, by Maj. Philip Reade, inspector- 
general First Division, Fifth Army Corps, in the field. 

Any diseases? — Most of the fevers are paludal fevers; some are thermic, some 
yellow fever. Dysenteric and other diarrheas jirevail. Some are true cases of 
dysentery. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Good. 

Camp properly located? — Yes. The camp is near to the trenches, which is 
about 1 mile distant from water, which has to be carried by the men. 

Properly drained? — Yes. 
******* 

Quartermaster supplies good and sufficient?— None on hand. Great demand 
for underclothing; none received since leaving Tampa, Fla., Tuesday, June 7, 
1898. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient? — None on hand. After leaving 
Siboney the full rations not supplied. Men suffered from lack of nourishing food. 
"When in the trenches men had to do individual cooking. Fuel is scarce, but we 
are promised that subsistence stores will improve in quality and quantity and 
increase in variety. 

Ordnance supplies good and sufficient?— None on hand, excepting small arms 
in the hands of the men. and cartridges as noted on first page. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — Scarcely any on hand. Not sufficient. 
No cots, no mattresses, no blankets, no food for sick nc waj to cook it if we 
had. (See note 1.) 



404 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAli WITH SPAIN 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient? — No. One man and one steward. At 
date there are 8 officers and 185 men on sick report, and it has been necessary to 
treat and care for many of these men in their own tents, where they could have 
the help of their comrades. 

Ambulance and stretchers, number and condition? — None. Sick remain in their 
shelter tents. 

Police and capacity of hospital? — No hospital. Men treated in their own shelter 
tents. No material or canvas for a hospital. 

Number of sick in hospital? — Thirty-four; in quarters, 151 men and 8 officers. 

Sick receive proper attention? — Received proper personal attention. Strength 
of the hospital corps does not admit rendering proper attention. Surgeon does 
the best he can. 

Any epidemic diseases? — Yes; so-called Cuban fever. * * * 

Note 1 . — Regiment needs everything ever furnished for sick men except quinine, 
epsom salts, and castor oil. Every day means loss by prostration and sickness. 
Thermic fevers, due to heat and exposure, prevail; also paludal fevers. Condi- 
tion of the regiment is anaemic. Among other medical sujjplies especially needed 
are as follows, viz; Bismuth, subnitrate and gallade; salol, salicylate of soda, anti- 
pyi-etics, strychnine, Warburg's tincture, morph. (sulph., hypo., tab.), arsenic, 
tonic triturates (iron, quinine, and strychnine). 

* * * * * * * 

Note 3. — It is noted all sanitary precautions are being taken; sinks are removed 
to the bottom lands, 300 yards away from the slopes occux)ied by the troops. 
There is no odor; grounds are policed each morning. Canvas, what there is of it, 
is being removed, so as to let the sun dry the ground where men and officers have 
slept; blankets are aired on bushes. Men boil their water in siich tin cans as they' 
can obtain. The needs of the regiment are fiill rations, ovens, (Biizzacott) , stoves, 
clean clothing, naail facilities, and matches. 

******* 

Respectfully submitted. 

Philip Reade, 
Major, Inspector-General, U. S. Volunteers. 



Extract from report of field inspection of the Seventy-first Regiment New York 
Volunteers, made at camp near Santiago de Cuba, JiUy 23, ISOS, by Maj. Philip 
Reade, inspector-general, First Division, Fifth Army Corps. 

* ****** 

Any diseases? — Malarial fevers, dysentery, lumbago; anaemic condition. Ther- 
mal fevers, due to heat and exhaustion, prevail. 

Troops fully equipped for field service? — Regiment needs blankets, canvas 
clothing, and camp eqiiipage of every description. All blankets and personal 
behmgings left at Siboney, June 25; not since recovered. 

Police of tents, gTounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.?— Good, considering the area to 
which restricted. 

Camp properly located?— As good a location as any about this section. No 
water less than a mile distant, and nothing biit canteens to carry it in; very 
severe on the men. 

Properly di-ained?- Yes, located on the hillside. 

Quartermaster supplies good and sufficient?— None. Great demand for under- 
Avear; none received since leaving Lakeland, Fla., May 25, 1898. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient?— Pork, hardtack, and coffee as a 
steady diet in a tropical climate is not conducive to health. Half rations of these 
articles of food is responsible for much of the prevailing sickness. Vegetables 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 405 

and acids are very essential. At present, commissary supplies are increasing in 
quality, also in quantity, and increasing in variety. 

Ordnance supplies good and sufficient?— Yes. Regiment armed with caliber 
.45 Springfields; rusted and worn by exposure and service. Regiments want the 
same rifle and cartridge the United States infantry are supplied with; black 
powder objectionable. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — Not when needed the most. (See note 

1 hereon.) 

* -X- * * * * * 

Strength of hospital corps siifficient? — No. 

Police and capacity of hospital? — Police good; capacity limited only by the num- 
ber of shelter tents. 

Properly located? — Yes; on high ground, separate from the camp proper. 

Number sick in hospital? — Forty-seven. 

Number sick in quarters? — Two hundred and forty. 

Sick receive proper attention?— All the attention that the present facilities will 
afford. Conditions for proper attention are very adverse. 

Any epidemic diseases?— Both affirmed and denied by medical men that yellow 
fever exists in this division. Cases of measles have occurred. Thermal fevers, 
due to heat and exhaustion, are very prevalent. Some of the medical men call 
these fevers dengue; some call them pernicioiis malarial fever; some call them 
Cuban fever. Most of the fevers are paludal fevers; some are thermic; some are 
yellow fever. Dysenteric and other diarrheas prevail. Some are cases of true 
dysentery. 

Note 1.— The surgeon Seventy-first Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry, 
Maj. W. D. Bell, states as follows: 

"About the only medicines available in the medical department are quinine, 
castor oil, compound cathartics, diarrhea pills, and salts. No stimulants yet 
received, though promised. Capt. H. E. Stafford purchased at his own expense 
in Tampa about .$40 worth of drugs for the regiment, for which he paid cash from 
his own funds. I also purchased from private funds for the use of the regiment, 
in Tampa, Fla. , about $70 worth of drugs. My purchases included Warburg's 
tincture in capsule form, bismuth in large quantity, antiseptic pills, ginger, aro- 
matic spirits of ammonia, phenol bromide, and salol. 

"When this regiment left New York, the 14th of May, it had a thoroughly 
equipped hospital corps and medical department so far as the personnel went. 
The present strength of the regiment, sick and well, is 964 officers and men. Of 
these, 7 officers are sick. 47 men are sick in hospital, and 238 are sick in quarters. 

"My available force for the care of these sick consists of two hospital corps 
privates. Both of my stewards are sick; I am sick; Asst. Surg. Capt. H. E. Staf- 
ford is sick— has had a temperature of over 100 degrees for three days past and 
ought to be on the sick report himself, but continues in his devotion to his duties. 
All the rest of my hospital corps have been taken from me. It is like taking away 
the lock of a soldier's rifle prior to sending him into a fight to strip a new regiment 
of its hospital corps men, imder recent and existing circumstances." 



Headquarters Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, 

Inspector-General's Office, 
Huntsville, Ala., August 19, 1S9S. 
Assistant Adjutant-General, 

Second Division. Fourth Army Corps. 
Sir: In compliance with verbal orders from the general commanding, I have 
the honor to report the result of my inspection of the Fifth Regiment Maryland 
Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Col. R. Dorsey Coale. 



400 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

I inspected six companies on the 6tli, five companies on the 8th, and Company 
F, detailed and doing duty at division headquarters, on the 13th instant. I was 
accompanied by battahon comm, aiders, each in his respective battalion. 

This regiment was mustered into the United States service on the 14th day of May, 
1898. About 50 per cent of its numerical strength has had some instriiction, prior 
to entering the United States service, as national guardsmen in the State. The 
men are armed with the Springfield rifle, caliber .45. About one-half of the guns 
are old, having been used in the State service from ten to fifteen years. 

The other half of the guns were issued to the regiment new by the Grovernment, 
after entering the service. The old guns show age, and are in a condition which 
makes it necessary for the men to be watchful and diligent to keep them from 
rusting, yet in other respects they are in good order and serviceable. 

About 50 or 75 per cent of the men have the army regulation overcoat, which 
they brought with them from the State, and are poorly cared for, many of them 
being imfit for use. 

Many officers expressed a desire to have the men relieved of this burden. It 
appears to be unnecessary to encumber soldiers with such clothing in a climate 
like this, and unjust to make them care for and retain them, or else i3ay for them 
if lost or destroyed, as is the case, which can not be well avoided; yet, in view of 
the fact that the regiment may be miistered oiit within a few months, and in 
order that the men may not be compelled to pay for them. I would recommend 
that the coats be packed, stored, and cared for, that they may be retiirned to the 
State when the regiment is mustered out, or else txTrned over to the Government. 
The men are otherwise too heavily burdened and loaded down with a great 
variety of personal effects. 

The inspection showed that there is a good degree of interest manifested by the 
field and line officers, yet a closer application of the customs of the service in 
administrative affairs would produce better results for the labor performed. 
Nothing is ever required in general or special orders that can not be performed. 
All provisions in orders from constituted authority, whether oral or written, 
should l)e rigidly enforced, strictly obeyed, and faithfully performed. This is a 
fundamental principle of militaxy government, which admits of no apology for 
violation or even modification. Not only the health and comfort, but the safety 
and success of an army in the field, depends entirely upon the conscientious 
observance of this uncompromising jirinciple. 

A failure to do this was observed in some of the companies by neglecting to 
boil the water used for domestic purposes. It may be a small matter, and yet 
the penalty may be a vast amount of sickness and even death. The reason given 
in some of the companies for this open disobedience was that some thought it 
not necessary, and that it did no good, while others thought they were relieved 
from the execution of the order because the G-overnnient did not furnish kettles 
expressly for that purpose. In neither case, and under no circumstances, can 
an officer justify himself or be justified by his superior for such disobedience 
even in small matters. 

The arms were in good condition with a few bad exceptions. A few pieces 
were rusty, dirty, and exhibited lack of care and attention. Many bayonet sock- 
ets were rusty, which caused the end of the barrel to rust, showing that that 
part of the gun was neglected. One lock was out of order, several l>ayonets bent, 
all of which defects were ordered corrected. When 95 out of 100 men can and 
do keep their arms in perfect order at all times, the inspector fails to understand 
why the other 5 can not do the same. There is no excuse for this neglect, and it 
is unbecoming an officer, and he fails to comprehend his duties when he makes 
an excuse and apologizes for an enlisted man for the bad condition of his arms, 
in his presence. It is not only detrimental, but demoralizing to the best interest 



INSPECTION UEPOKTS. 407 

of the service, and it should never be done. Send him to his quarters to put his 
gian in condition, -with orders to report to your quarters after inspection with his 
piece for yotir examination, and it will not frequently occur the second time. 

Clothing, particularly trousers, are badly worn, no effort having been made to 
replace them, as the regiment is to be uniformed with the new canvas or khaki 
uniforms in the near futiire. Many men were withoiit two pairs of shoes, some 
with but one suit of underwear, and some without any, and have not worn any 
since entering the service. A few pairs of leggings are needed to make the outfit 
complete. Haversacks, canteens, and mess kits are in good order, showing proper 
care, only a few articles being missing. Every man is supplied with a shelter 
half, poles and pins, poncho, and wool blanket. Rations drawn give satisfaction 
and are sufiacient. At some of the company mess tents the lack of knowledge of 
how to cook and make the best use of what they have is apparent. In some of 
the companies the subsistence stores were not suitably cared for. Boxes should 
not be allowed to rest on the ground, but placed on boards, or what is better, on 
poles or joists, so as to admit a free circulation of air under and around the pack- 
ages. It is the duty of commanding officers to look after such matters, both on 
the score of economy and the health of their men. 

The general police of the camp was good, kitchens fairly neat, with one or two 
exceptions— that of Companies D and M being bad. In most cases kitchen sinks 
or pits were well cared for. In one or two instances two companies used the same 
sink. This is not a satisfactory way. No one seems to be accountable, particu- 
larly if it becomes a subject of criticism. OflScers should always assume all the 
responsibilities of their respective commands-and never share the responsibilities 
of others. 

There was but one large sink for the use of men and this was not properly 
screened. In no case should more than two companies use the same pit, and in 
no case, unless the officer of the day is held strictly accountable for their sanitary 
condition. 

Schools are held for the instruction of officers and noncommissioned officers, 
and a good interest is manifested on the part of all to learn their duties, and then 
discharge them in an intelligent manner. Discipline in the command is good, 
but not up to the standard it should be, nor of that order which can easily be 
attained. I heard much loud and profane language in some companies after they 
were dismissed, while inspecting other companies near by. To allow this is not 
creditable to any officer, and is detrimental to good order and military discipline. 
Some wrong commands and incorrect positions were taken, substituting com- 
mands and movements not found in Drill Regulations. In many cases in the 
ceremony of inspection, after arms were stacked, the company was moved one 
or more paces to the rear, the front rank faced about by command of the coin- 
manding officer, preparatory to unslinging knapsacks. There is no authority for 
this movement. After arms are stacked, ranks are opened. This formation, 
however, does not give sufficient space between ranks to spread out the pack and 
display the contents, when the blanket roll is used, which is now substituted or 
allowed in the place of the blanket bag. The commanding officer should therefore 
regulate the movement to have the necessary distance to display the pack. In 
many instances the command was given '• Unsling knapsacks," and then " Open 
blanket rolls." In other cases the command was given " Unsling blanket rolls, 
open blanket roll." all of which is wrong. The command should be " Unsling 
knapsack, open knapsack," no matter what the pattern of the pack may be. (See 
note, paragi-aph 98, Drill Regulations.) 

The administration of affairs is intelligently administered. The medical staff 
labors hard to preserve the health of the command, but its efforts are baffled by 
the diligent indiscretion of the men in their desire to gratify appetite. The (piar- 



408 INVKSTKJATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

termaster is pi-operly equipped with teams and tools to carry on the work of his 
department. 

The inspection of Company F was very gratifying. Arms were in excellent 
order, clothing clean and neat, police of company street, quarters, and kitchen 
uncommonly good. Subsistence stores were well hoiised, water boiled, all refuse 
gathered from policing canip.incliiding all vegetable and animal matter from the 
kitchen, is burned daily, and the sink was filled, so there was no odor whatever. 

The following statement shows the strength of the regiment, present and 
absent: 

Officers present for duty 43 

Absent and sick 10 

Enlisted men for duty 1,106 

Enlisted men sick and absent 140 

In arrest 18 

Everything being taken into consideration, it is a good volunteer regiment, 
composed of good material, and simply needs time and experience to fit it for 
active service. 

Very respectfully, D. M. White, 

Major, Inspector-General, U. S. Volunteers. 

[First indorsement.] 

Headquarters Second Division, Fourth Army Corps, 

HuiitsviUe, Ala., August 23, 1S9S. 
Respectfully forwarded to the adjutant-general. Fourth Army Corps. 

Simon Snyder, 
Brigadier-General. U. 8. Volunteers. Commanding. 

[Second indorsement.] 

Headquarters Fourth Army Corps, 
Camp Wheeler, Huutsville, Ala., August 2G, 1898. 
Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant-General of the Army. 

J. J. Coppinger, 
Major-General, U. S. Volunteers. Commanding. 



Hdqrs. Fourth Army Corps. Office of the Inspector-General, 

Tampa. Fla., June 25 , 1898. 
The Adjutant-General Fourth Army Corps. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that, pursuant to the instructions of the major- 
general commanding. I have made inspections of the Second New York Volunteer 
Infantry, * * * and would respectfully submit the following report. To this 
report is attached a tabulated statement oJt' needs. 

****** -X- 

On June 18 I inspected the Second New York Volunteer Infantry, twelve com- 
panies, Col. E. E. Hardin commanding. Officers and men present and absent, 
993; absentees all on guard and recruiting duty. 

This regiment has 100 rounds of ammunition per man; rifles and belts all serv- 
iceable; haversacks, canteens, mess outfits all serviceable. The Merriam pack is 
carried and liked by the men. Tentage sufficient. As a rule the blue clothes are 
of State issue, and while serviceable at present shoxild soon be replaced by new 
clothing. There are 29 wagons and 117 mules. 



INSPECTION RETORTS. 409 

The inspection of this regiment was made by company, and as far as could be 
determined by the marching and niannal for this cerem(5ny the regiment's drill 
is good. The rifles and equipments are all serviceable, but rnst was found in 
many gnns. The guard dnty is good; the military courtesy fair. The colonel, 
who has great energy and the best of judgment, superintends all drills, and the 
regiment is improving rapidly and should be in good shape very soon. The men 
are cheerful, willing, and of fine x)hysique. The officers are diligent, intelligent, 
and willing workers. With the exception of potatoes the rations are good. 
About 50 per cent of the potatoes issued up to the present time are rotten. The 
sinks should be inclosed and made more comfortable for the men. 

The reg-iment is well pleased with its camp site, but to my luind the site seems 
very much cramped and not at all suitable for so many men (three regiments). 
Of course, the men have the advantage of sea bathing, but there is no drill ground 
and no shade to speak of. 

One regiment of this brigade (Carpenter's) marches each night to Tampa 
Heights, bivouacs in shelter tents, and practices at outpost and other drills, 
retiTrning to their camp about 10 o'clock the following morning. 

I believe this regiment will be entirely satisfactory in a short time. 
******* 

Very respectfully, 

J. K. Thompson, 

Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Volunteers, Acting Insjyector-General. 



Hdqrs. Fourth Army Corps, Office of the Inspector-General, 

Tampa. Fla., June 25, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General Fourth Army Corps. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that, pursuant to the instructions of the major- 
general commanding, I have made the inspection of the * * * Third Penn- 
sylvania Volunteer Infantry, * * * and would respectfully submit the 
following report. To this report is attached a tabulated statement of needs. 
* -x- * x- * * * 

On June 21 I inspected the Third Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, eight com- 
pamies, Colonel Rallston commanding. Five hundred and twenty-one officers 
and men present; 24 officers and men absent; absentees on guard and recruit- 
ing. Two hundred and ninety thousand rounds of ammiinition; none short. 
The regiment is tully equipped with rifles and one belt per man for men present; 
practically equipped with haversacks, canteens, mess kits, and uniforms; 19 
wagons and 77 mules. 

The inspection of this regiment was made by company, and as far as could be 
determined by the marching and manual for this ceremony the regiment's drill is 
good. Rifles and equipments are all servicealile, but rust was found in many 
guns. The guard duty is good and the military courtesy fair. The colonel super- 
intends all drills, and the regiment should be in gocnl shape when th(> other four 
companies are recruited and drilled. The men are cheerful, willing, and of fine 
physique. The officers are diligent, intelligent, and willing workers. The rations 
are good except the potatoes, of which about 50 per cent Avere rotten. The sinks 
and kitchejis are well cared for. 

This regiment is at Port Tampa City, where the water is brackish. The water 

is boiled and filtered before the men drink it. 

* * * * * * * 

Very respectfully. 

J. K. Thompson. 

Assistant Adjutant-General. U. S. Volunteers, Acting Inspector-General. 



410 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. I 

Hdqks. Fourth Army Corps, Office of the Inspector-General, 

Tampa, Fla., June 25, 1S98. 
Tlie Adjutant-General Fourth Army Corps. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that, pursuant to the instructions of the major- 
general commanding, I have made insjiections of the * * * First Illinois 
Vohuiteer Infantry, and would respectfully submit the following report. To this 
report is attached a tabulated statement of needs. 

-X- ****** 

On June 23 I inspected the First Illinois Volunteer Infantry, twelve companies, 
Colonel Turner commanding. Seven hiindred and sixty-two ofl&cers and men 
present; 247 officers and men absent: absentees reported by name. Attention is 
incited to the large number of absentees. 

This regiment and 134 recruits had just arrived from Chicago. It expects to 
fill its qiTota before June 27. It has 340.000 rounds of amniTinition: it needs 
134.000 rounds, not counting ammunition necessary for recruits. 

Except recruits, this regiment is fully equipped with one rifle and two belts pei; 
man. Its uniform is serviceable: has 30 wagons and 131 mules. 

The inspection of this regiment was made by company, and as far as could be 
determined by the marcliing and manual for this ceremony the regiment's drill is 
good. The rifles and equipments are all serviceable, but rust and dirt were found 
in many guns. The guard duty is good. In camp the military courtesy is good, 
but out of camp bad. 1 passed privates of this regiment who utterly failed to 
saltite until stopped and questioned about their (bxty in this respect. I should add 
that this negligence is not confined to the First Illinois Volunteer Infantry, but is 
universal over the entire command, officers very often setting the bad example. 
The colonel siiperintends regimental drills and is present at some of the others. 

This regiment should be in good shape soon. The men are cheerful, willing, 
and of fine physique. The officers are diligent, intelligent, and willing workers. 
I should like to call special attention to Cajitain Funkhaiisen, Company K. The 
internal economy of this company is well administered in his hands. 

The kitchens of thi% regiment are clean and the sinks in good condition. The 
rations are good, except the potatoes, which are about 50 per cent bad. The water 
for this regiment is hauled in cars from Ybor City and is good. 
Very respectfully, 

J. K. Thompson, 
Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Volunteers, 

Acting Inspector-General. 



Headquarters Fourth Army Corps, 

Office of the Inspector-General, 

Tampa, Fla., June 25, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General Fourth Army Corps. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that pursuant to the instructions of the major- 
general commanding. I have made inspections of the * * * One hundred and 
fifty-seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry, * * * and would respectfully sub- 
mit the follo\\'ing report. To this report is attached a tabulated statement of 
needs: 

* * * * * * * 

On June 20 I inspected the One hundred and fifty-seventh Indiana Volunteer 
Infantry, 12 companies, Colonel Studebaker commanding. Seven hundred and 
eighty-five officers and men present: 251 officers and men absent. Absentees were 
accounted for by name: attention is called to the large number. 

This regiment has a fair Ijand of 22 pieces. It has 397,000 rounds of ammuni- 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 411 

tion; still needs 66,000. Rifles and belts all serviceable. Many bayonet scabbards 
in a very bad condition; they are very old. and the leather attaching the steel 
scabbard to the belt is old. rotten, and, in most instances, entirely unserviceable. 
The chief ordnance oflEicer has no new scabbards on hand. The bine nniforni, 
as a rule, is good. The regiment has still some old uniforms brought from the 
State; these are of very little vahie, being old and rotten. They have 80 wagons 
and 121 mnles. 

Inspection of this regiment was made by company, and as far as could l^e 
determined by the formation and manual for this ceremony, the drill is not 
good. The rifles, as a rule, were filthy with riist and grease. The guard diity 
was j)erformed in a most slovenly manner, and the military courtesy is bad. The 
colonel superintends most drills. The men are cheerfiil, \\T.lling. and of fine 
physique. Some of the company officers seem well instructed, and others seem 
very far from knowing their work. Few or no companies were properly prepared 
for inspection. The dressing at open ranks was very bad, and the manual, dur- 
ing inspection, worse. The ration is reported good with the exception of potatoes, 
about 50 per cent of the latter being reported rotten. 

This regiment is camped at Port Tampa City, where the water is brackish and 
bad. The water in this regiment is boiled for drinking pui*iJoses. Sea bathing 
at this camp is excellent. 



Very respectfully. 



J. K. Thompson. 
Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Volunteers, 

Acting Inspector-General. 



Extract from report of field inspection of the Fourth Regiment Missouri Infantry 
Volunteers, made at Camp Russell A. Alger, Va., July 25, IS'JS, by Maj. R, A. 
Brown, inspector general, U. S. Volunteers. 

Troops fully equipped for field service? — Yes. 

Police of tents, gi-ounds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Good. 

Camp properly located? — Yes. 

Transijortation in good condition and sufficient? — None. 

Quartermaster siipplies good and sufficient? — Tentage insufficient and much of 
it unserviceable. 

Commissary supplies good and siifficient? — Rations satisfactory. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — No; supplies are deficient in variety. 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient? — Yes. 

Ambulances and stretchers, number and condition? — No ambulances; 4 
stretchers. 

Police and capacity of hospital? — No regimental hospital. 

Number of sick in hospital? — Thirty-six, mostly measles; in (juarters, 32 con- 
valescents, from measles mostly. 

Sick receive proper attention? — Yes. 

Any epidemic diseases? — Measles. 

The condition of this regiment in equipment, discipline, and instruction is 

satisfactory, and progress is evidently along the proper lines and in the right 

spirit. 

Respectfully submitted. 

R. A. Brown, 

Major, and Inspector-General. U. S. Volunteer's, 

Second Dixnsion, Second Army Corps. 



412 INVESTIGATION OF T'ONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Extract from a report of field inspeetion of the One hundred and sirty first 
Indiana Voltmteer Infantry, made at Panama Park, Fla. , September 2, 1898, 
by Lieut. Col. Curtis Guild, jr., inspector-general, Seventh Army Corps. 



Troops fiTlly equipped for field service? — As nearly as other volunteer regiments 
have been equipped. 

Police of tents, groimds, kitchens, sinks, etc.? — Excellent. 

Cainp i^roperly located? — Yes. Dry, sandy soil. Sunny plain. 

Properly drained? — Thoroughly. 

Quartermaster siipplies good and sufficient? — Additional blue shirts needed. 

Commissary supplies good and suflScient? — Constant complaint of bad fresh 
beef. Much delay in getting rations. Last ten-day issue was thirty-six hours 
late. 

Medical supplies good and sufficient? — Yes; larger variety than most hospitals. 

Strength of hospital corps siifficient? — Yes. 

Ambulances and stretchers, number and condition? — None. 

Police and capacity of hospital? — Good. Twelve. 

Properly located? — Yes. 

Number of sick in hospital? — Four. 

Number of sick in quarters? — Forty-two, 

Sick receive proper attention? — Yes. 

Any epidemic diseases? — No. 
* * * * * ■ * * 

Respectfully submitted, 

Curtis Guild, Jr., 

Lieutenant-Colonel, Inspector-General, U. S. Volunteers. 



Extract from report of field insptection of the Sixth Missouri Volunteer Infantry, 
in camp at Panama Park, Fla., made September 3, 1898, by Lieut. Col. Curtis 
Guild, jr., inspector-general, U. S. Volunteers. 



Troops fully equipped for field service ? — Yes, as far as most so-called 
" equipped "' volunteer regiments are. 

Police of tents, grounds, kitchen, sinks, etc.? — Good. 

Camp i>roperly located? — Yes. 
* * * .)(.*# .jf 

Quartermaster supplies good and siiflacient?— Trousers (woolen) somewhat 
worn; only one blue shirt; no khakis; not sufficient. 

Commissary supplies good and sufficient?— Fresh beef constantly bad. Great 
delay in getting other rations. 

Medical STipplies good and sufficient? — Yes. 

Strength of hospital corps sufficient? — Yes. 

Ambulance and stretchers, number and condition? — Two stretchers. Sick at 
division hospital. 

Number of sick in hospital?— Nine; in quarters, 66. 

Sick receive proper attention? — Yes. 

Any epidemic diseases?— No. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 413 

Brief of report of Curtis Guild, jr.. lieute)iaut-eolo)tel. i nKpector-general. 

. Jacksonville, Fla.. August 29, ISOS. 
The hospital is located to the east of the camp of the First Brigade, Second 
Division. The site was chosen by Lieutenant-Colonel Mans, chief surgeon, and 
myself. The soil is sandy and dry, the tents being shaded hy lofty pine trees. 
The water is from the city supply, and is pure and free from the usual smell of 
sulphur. 

The corral and ambulances are across the railroad to the left, and aml)ulance is 
easily and quiclvly summoned. Tents were neat and well polict'd. 

The receiving tent is to the left, a circular pavilion where patients are received 
and examined as to the nature of the disease. Tent furnished with a dozen cots; 
contract surgeon in attendance: only three patients at the time of visit. Premises 
neat. 

The bath house is a wooden building adjoining the quartermaster's storeroom, 
with two set bath tubs. The waste water from this bath house lies in an o])en 
ditch. Was informed that box drain had been ordered, and recommended for 
immediate construction. 

In the office found the various books correctly kept. There is no return of any 
nature showing property accountability. Surgeon in charge has received none, 
though repeatedly requested. Dispensary well furnished with ordinary drugs and 
supplies, ])ut great difficulty is experienced in getting nitroglycerine, strychnia, 
and other tonics. 

The local sui)ply depot is limited to the field supply table, which is absurdly 
inadequate for the needs of the semipermanent hospitals and army corps in 
camp. Major Pilcher reports all reasonable requisitions, outside field supply 
t-xble, are immediately honored by Surgeon-General and goods shipped at once. 
I recommend full supply table be ordered at once for this place. 

We have had a number of deaths here. There is no postmortem case (Par. 348, 
Man. Med. Dept.) on hand. There is not at this hospital, nor I am informed at 
any other in this corps, any eye and ear case. (Par. 235, Man for Med. Dept.) 

Only one microscoiie has been furnished, and that is without accessories, so 
microscopic examinations of samples of milk, food, etc., and the blood of patients 
for malaria and typhoid bacilli is impossible. A neglect to fill requisitions for 
such highly important appliances in a subtropical climate is incomprehensible. 
Recommend attention of corps commander to the lack of these three cases. 
(Pars. 235,248,258.) 

At the hour of my visit there were 352 patients in the hospital, of whom 276 
were suffering from typhoid. There is very little doubt in my mind that it is con- 
tracted from drinking lemonade, milk shakes, and other drinks sold by peddlers 
from water drawn from infected surface wells. I recommend men be forbidden 
to purchase food or drink from peddlers, and that such drinks as ginger ale, etc., 
be sold at the regimental post exchange in every regiment. 

Then follows a description of the hospital, wliich seems to be satisfactory. We 
found in several cases pans and bottles filled with urine unemptied outside of the 
tents. The ground about the tents is littered with papers, orange, lime, and 
lemon peel. 

Recommend immediate issue of waste buckets, to be placed between the beds 
for refuse; also the issue of cups for sputum. None in the wards at present. 

In one of the minor wards was a patient suffering from skin disease. Beneath 
his bed was a mass of dirty bandages. The nurse in charge was reprimanded. 

Force of nurses is inadequate. I saw in one ward a man vomiting, another 
calling for a bedpan, and a third for ice water, all at once, with but one man 
to attend to them. Not one experienced steward has ever been sent here. It 



414 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

is impossible to detain inexperienced privates for typhoid fever, as the slightest <j 
carelessness is the cause of death. f i 

In regard to the kitchens and commissary stores, premises v^^ere clean and neat, ji 

The waste water drains into an oi^en cesspool, filled to overflowing. Am n 
informed a box train is in process of construction. In the diet kitchen two cooks 1 1 
are employed. Their outfit consists of one blue-flame kerosene stove, with three f 
burners. On this single stove, in addition to the constant calls for hot water for 
poultices, must be cooked all the food for at least 350 men not on full diet. A 
more ridicxTlous travesty of equipment it would be hard to find. 

Sj)eaks well of Red Cross Society and their suijplies, giving them great credit. 

In conclusion says the greatest need of all is for more exjjerienced nurses. 

Has heard this hospital praised by George Kennan and Clara Barton. 



Headquarters Seventh Army Corps, 

Office Inspector-General, 
Camp Cuba Libre, Jacksonville, Fla., August 2^, 1808, 
Inspector-General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 
Sir: I have the honor to inclose report of inspection of Second Division hos- 
pital, as prescribed, paragraph 873, Army Regulations. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Curtis Guild, Jr., 
Lieutcnaiit-Colonel , Inspector-General. 



\ 



Headquarters Seventh Army Corps, 

Office Inspector-General, 
Camp Cuba Libre, Jacksonville, Fla., August 21, 1808. 
The Adjutant-General, Seventh Army Corps, 

Jacksonville, Fla. 
Sir: In obedience to order, copy inclosed, I have the honor to report that I pro- 
ceeded, within five minutes of receipt of the order, to the Second Division hospital 
and performed the required tour of inspection. 

I have the honor to inclose statement of the hospital fund, tabular view of the 
sick, by diseases and regiments, and complete deaths since the foundation of 
the hospital, and statement as to strength of the hospital corps, map of the hos- 
pital and grounds, and roster of the surgeons in charge. 

location. 

The hospital is located to the east of the camp of the First Brigade, Second 
Division, in the rear of the camp of the general commanding, along the shell road 
leading to Panama, and soiith of the spur track originally constructed for Buck's 
mills. The site was chosen by Lieutenant-Colonel Maus, chief surgeon, and 
myself. The soil is sandy and dry, the tents being shaded by lofty pine trees. 
The water furnished is from the city supply, coming originally from artesian 
wells, and is pure and free from the usiial smell of sulphur. 

ARRANGEMENT. 

The groxand plan of the hospital camp is as shown on inclosed map. The corral 
and ambulances are across the railroad to the left, and, as I found by test, ambu- 
lance is easily and quickly summoned. The officers' tents are in line along the 
road, the major surgeon commanding being in the center. Tents were neat an'd 
well policed. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 415 

The receiving tent (N) is to the left; a circular iiavilion where patients are 
received, relieved immediately by treatment, if in j)ain, and examined as to the 
nature of the disease. Tent furnished with a dozen cots; a contract snrgeon is 
in attendance. There were only three patients at the time of my visit. Premises 
neat. If possible the x^atient is taken from the receiving tent to the bath house. 

The bath house (V) is a wooden building adjoining the quartermaster's store- 
room, with two set bath tubs. In one of these the newcomer is thoroiighly bathed 
before being removed to one of the wards. The waste water from this bath house 
lies in an open ditch. Was informed that box drain had been ordered. Recom- 
mend its immediate constrtiction. 

The oflBce and dispensary (Y X) are side by side in the center of the wards, 
which radiate from them like the sticks of a fan. I found the various books cor- 
rectly kept. There is, however, no retiirn of any nature showing proijerty 
accoxmtability. The surgeon in charge reports that he has received none, though 
he has repeatedly reqiiested it. The disj)ensary was well f iirnished with ordinary 
drugs and supx^lies, such as carbolic acid, castor oil, whisky, quinine, bicarbonate 
of soda. Great difficulty, it was reported, had been experienced in getting nitro- 
glycerine, strychnia, and other tonics. 

The local-supply depot, under charge of Major Pilcher, is limited to the field- 
supply table, which is absurdly inadequate for the needs of the semipermanent 
hospitals of an army corps in camp. Major Pilcher reports that all reasonable 
requisitions outside the field-supply table are immediately honored by the Surgeon- 
General, and the goods shii^ped at once. 

As, however, remedies are needed immediatly and not after the lapse of two or 
three days, and as we are rai)idly approaching the sickliest season of the year, I 
respectfully recommend that the full supply table be ordered at once to be kept 
on hand at this place. Even if ordered away immediately, several hundred sick 
will be necessarily left behind, and these must be cared for. 

We have had a number of deaths here. There is no post-mortem case (par. 
248, Man. Med. Dept.) on hand. There is not at this hospital, nor, I am informed, 
at any other in this corps, any eye and ear case (par. 235, Man. Med. Dept.), 
Only one microscope has been furnished, and that is without accessories, so that 
microscopic examination of samples of milk, food, etc., and the blood of patients 
for malaria and tjTphoid l)acilli is impossible. The neglect to fill requisitions for 
such highly important appliances in a subtropical climate are incomprehensible. 
I respectfully recommend the immediate attention of the corps commander to the 
lack of these three cases (235, 248, 258). 

Number of patieiits. — At the hour of my visit there were 352 patients in the 
hospital, of whom 276 are suffering from typhoid fever. There is very little 
doubt in my mind that it is contracted from drinking lemonade, milk shakes, 
and other drinks sold by peddlers and made from water drawn from the numer- 
ous infected surface wells. I recommend that enlisted men be forbidden to pur- 
chase food or drink from i^eddlers in the vicinity of the camp, and that properly 
inspected sut^plies of such mild luxuries as ginger ale, unadulterated milk, etc., 
be sold at the regimental post exchanges, which should exist in every regiment, 

The five principal wards radiate like the sticks of a fan from the dispensary and 
office, an admirable arrangement, for which great praise is duo to Major Bock- 
mann, who devised the laying oiit of the hospital. 

In each of the main wards (A, B, D, E), filled for the most part with fever 
patients, there are ten hospital tents, arranged end to end in pairs. An open-air 
sx)ace covered with a roofing of boughs separates each couple of tents. There are 
l^sually eight cots in each tent, arranged lengthwise. Regulation charts of the 
cases are properly kept. The center ward is devoted to surgical cases, and con- 
tains but eight hospital tents. In its immediate rear are (L) three hospital tents, 
arranged end to end, for dressing room and oiierating room. ' 



411) INVESTKiATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

These tents contain two siirgical chests No. 1 and two surgical chests No. 2. 
There are two sterihzing chests in addition to a private sterilizing apparatus, and 
three operating tables with all necessary supplies, such as lint, bandages, etc. A 
small oil ttove keeps hot water boiling constantly for sterilization and the needs 
of operations. 

The patients in all five of these wards seemed contented, and stated generally 
that they had no complaints. The exceptions were a few typhoid patients who 
complained of great hunger — the usual symptom of the convalescent stage — a 
longing which, of course, can not be gratified. At the time of my visit the 
patients were quite generally eating or being fed with vanilla ice cream, made 
imder supervision on the gi'ounds, the materials being furnished by the Red Cross 
Society. 

The hospital swarms with flies. Each patient has a fly net. but most of them say 
they do not wish it, as it cuts off the air. In many of the tents there are electric 
fans, the gift of the Red Cross Society. Barrels of diluted carbolic acid for imme- 
diate disinfection are in the air spaces between the wards. These barrels are 
closely watched and conspicuously labeled •■ Poison." The solution, however, is 
not strong enough to materially injure a man, even if by anj^ accident he drank 
a glassful. 

I found in several cases pans and bottles filled with urine iinemptied outside 
the tents. The groimd about the tents was littered with papers, orange, lime, and 
lemon peel thrown out by the patients. The sinks (P) are 100 yards or so from 
the main ward. I would respectfully recommend for each ward closed galvan- 
ized tubs with bar handles, to be removed and emptied at regular intervals; or, 
better, hoppers with sewer connection in the immediate vicinity of the wards. 

Application has been made, but not honored, for waste buckets. I would 
respectfully recommend the immediate issue of waste buckets, to be placed between 
the beds for refuse; also the issue of cups for spiita. None of these are in the 
wards at present. I would respectfully recommend a detail for ijolicing the 
gi-ounds of the hospital. Sick men can not well be disciplined. They will throw 
refuse about, and the need of iwlicing is constant. I would further recommend 
an ice cooler for each four tents. The ice water is now kept in common pails, 
and the ice quickly melts. I would fuVther recommend the issue of canvas dun- 
nage bags for the storage of clothes, which are now for the most part piled loosely 
under the patients" beds. 

Visitors with the kindest intentions are in some cases more a hindrance than a 
help. I saw one kind-hearted woman trying to force a serious surgical case to eat 
sponge cake till she was checked by the nurse. A case was also reported to me 
by a citizen, not a soldier, of another who took oiTt some hot freshly baked bis- 
cuit for those sufi:ering with tj^ihoid fever, and felt aggrieved that the men were 
not allowed delicacies. The ladies of Jacksonville have been untiring in their 
kindness, and the officers in charge have welcomed the cooperation of those who 
have brought wine, jelly, flowers, magazines, light custards, and the others 
who have brought cologne and other cooling washes, and have themselves bathed 
the feverish foreheads and faces of the sick soldiers. 

Minor «'ards.— To the right of the main hospital are three hospital tents (F) 
intended for ofBcers. but filled with privates well cared for. To the right of 
these, about a hundred yards from the dispensary, are the four tents containing 
the mumps patients (G-), and close to them four containing the measles patients. 
The premises were clean and the patients mostly sitting up. (H) The mumps 
patients were eating oranges. The mumps patients were mostly from the Fourth 
Virginia, the measles from the First North Carolina. Beyond in a small common 
tent (I) was a patient suffering from skin disease. Beneath his bed was a mass 
of dirty bandages, which I ordered to bo summarily removed and burned. The 
nurse in charge was summoned and reprimanded for disobedience to orders. 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 417 

In the rear of tlie main hospitals are a nnmber of hospital tents arranged in 
pairs and used for serions cases (K K), and a morgue (M) iised also for a dei^osi- 
toiy for dirty linen. I recommend the immedate issue of covered baskets for the 
collection and temporary storage of this linen, and the erection of another tent 
as a morgue. 

Nurses, etc, — On the day of my inspection there were 83 nurses on duty from 
the hospital corps and a detail of 40 from the ambulance cori^s. The total is 
divided into two reliefs. There were, therefore, 41 mirses and 20 men from the 
ambulance cordis on duty at a time for 352 patients, or, roughly, 1 man to 
patients. This force is inadequate. I saw in one ward one man vomiting, another 
calling for a bedpan, and a third for ice water, all at once, with but one man to 
attend to all three demands. Moreover, though the general commanding the First 
Brigade, Second Division, occasionally sends over his x>risoners to police the 
grounds, the regular force on the grounds is so overworked as to necessarily leave 
much undone. Not one experienced steward has ever been sent here, and but 
two or three experienced privates who could be promoted, hence the gi-eat diffi- 
culty of organization. 

It is impossible to detail inexperienced privates as nurses for typhoid fever, as 
the slightest carelessness on the part of the nurses permits the breaking of the 
ulcers and death of the patient. The Surgeon-General informs me that he has 
made arrangements for more nurses. They can not come too soon. The tents of 
the nurses (O) are in the rear of the camp. They were in good order and the 
ground about them well policed. The men can not be drilled, as all were too 
busy nursing. Less than twenty pouches so far have been issued to them. I 
^respectfully recommend their immediate equipment. 

*■ Sinks. -There are four sinks (P) , containing four tubs each. The center two are 
used for the excreta from the hospital, the two on the wings by the nurses. All 
were well policed and strewn with chloride of lime. 

Kitchens and commissary stores, — 

XITCHENS AND COMMISSARY STORES. 

The main kitchen (T) is a room some 20 feet sqiiare and 15 feet high in a 
building along the spur track, to which supi^lies can be directly delivered. The 
premises were clean and neat. Cooking is done here by five cooks for all the 
nurses and all patients allowed full diet, approximately for twenty-two men 
altogether. Supper then cooking was fried potatoes and onions, cold roast beef, 
coffee, bread, and tomatoes. The quality in each case was good. The cooking 
outfit consists of three Hunt ovens, and seems sufficient. At present only pine 
wood is furnished, the smoke and flame of which seriously impedes the cooking. 
I respectfully recommend hard wood. 

Rubbish in the rear of the kitchen is removed once daily. It should be removed 
twice daily. The waste water drains into an open cesspool filled to overflowing. 
J'his should be at once connected by a box drain with the main drain of the camp; 
I am informed it is in course of construction. 

Adjoining the main kitchen is a small apartment 10 feet square (S) used as the 
diet kitchen. To the left is a large ice box (Q) sui^ into the groxmd and screened. 
In the diet kitchen two cooks are employed. Their outfit consists of one blue- 
flame kerosene stove with three biirners. On this single stove, in addition to con- 
stant calls for hot water for poultices, must be cooked all the food for at least 250 
men not on full diet. A more ridiculous travesty of equipment it would be hard 
to find. The cooks seemed intelligent. Their premises were neat. The chicken 
broth just cooked by them was excellent. 

I respectfully recommend the immediate constrviction of a larger kitchen, to be 
fitted out with the army range. 

7833— VOL. 1 27 



418 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Commissary stores, delicacies, etc., are stored in a room (R) acljoining the diet 
kitchen. A large ice chest contained calves'-foot jelly and pure sweet milk in 
large cans. About 60 gallons are supplied daily by the Red Cross Society. The 
supply is about half what is required, but the lack of grazing lands makes milk 
very hard to obtain. Condensed milk is used in the hotels. In this storehouse I 
found beef extract, clam bouillon, rolled oats, arrowroot, malted milk, eggs, 
sugar, rice, barley, etc. , in ample sufficiency. These were all supplied by the Red 
Cross Society. The system of having rations issued and sold and proper food 
bought with the proceeds broke down at an early stage of the proceedings as a 
result of a controversy with Armour & Co. I respectfully recommend the 
extension to all hospitals of the new system recently inaugurated by the Surgeon- 
General, of allowing 60 cents a day for food for each patient, unless it is thought 
desirable to have a part of the Army of the United States fed by public charity. 

Material— There are 150 gas pipe cots with wire mattresses. Only 50 mat- 
tresses have been furnished for these, though 150 were requisitioned for. There 
are also 250 ordinary wooden cots with canvas covers. About 150 mattresses 
have been sent by the Surgeon-General from various sources, which are used on 
the canvas cots, which are not supposed to have them. Water beds and mattreses 
for serious cases have been furnished on requisition, and several are in use, the 
patients using them speaking contentedly of their comfort. Thanks to the Red 
Cross Society, there is a sufficiency of bedlinen, pots, and bedpans. These sup- 
plies now exist in reserve also in the medical supply depot. It is a plain state- 
ment of facts to say, however, that almost all of these supplies now in use were 
furnished by the Red Cross Society, and that the sick of this command would 
have had to have gone without them for two months had it not been for this 
organization. 

In sufficient appropriations year after year for the Army by Congress, leaving 
the War Department without proper reserve supply of material for instant issue 
at the outbreak of a war, were never more glaringly displayed than in the delay 
to furnish the supplies for the sick. The responsibility for the condition of the sick 
soldiers, as for the lack of proper equipment, lies across the shoulders of the Amer- 
ican people who have welcomed the sham " economy" of cheap politicians, and 
now that the stress of war has come blame the War Department because it can 
not immediately issue equipment and supplies which it has had no money to man- 
ufacture and accumulate for jiist such sudden needs. 

In conclusion I desire to state that the greatest need of all to-day is for more 
experienced nurses, which have been sent for, as noted above. The surgeon in 
charge is indefatigable, and his assistants able and industrious. In spite of the 
many things yet to be corrected, the chief surgeon, seconded by the surgeon in 
charge of the hospital, deserves praise for his heroic struggle to maintain proper 
conditions, in which he has so nearly succeeded in spite of the utter lack of men 
trained in military organization and the complete breakdown, at the outset, of 
the supply department, since largely remedied. The hospital is generally clean; 
there are no foul odors, the plague of flies is mitigated by nets and fans, and not 
one patient, in spite of the overworked condition of the nurses, complained of 
lack of care. I have heard this hospital praised by Mr. George Kennan and Miss 
Clara Barton, of the Red Ci»ss Society. That the patients have— as they do 
have— plenty of nourishing food, bedlinen, and pajamas, credit is chiefly due to 
that society and to private charity. Care of the sick in the field is the most per- 
plexing of problems and the most open to unintelligent comment. The lack of 
a large, permanent, trained hospital corps and of a large reserve of medical sup- 
plies is responsible for every shortcoming noted. That they did not exist is the 
fault of a cowardly Congress and a careless people. 

Respectfully submitted. 

Curtis Guild, Jr., 

Lieutenant-Colonel, Inspector -General. 



INSPECTION KEI'OKTS. 



419 



Hdqrs. Second Division Hospital, Seventh Army Corps, 

Camp Cuba Libre, Fla., August 19, 18'JS. 
Report as per inspector-general's reqiiest. Number of nurses on duty to-day, 
83; hospital corps, 40; reserve ambulance corps, 61, each relief. Niimber of regu- 
lar detachment on duty at time of inspection, 41; detail from ambulance corps, 
'JO; total, Gl. 

List of deaths, May 38 to August 19, 1S98. 



Date. 


Com- 




pany. 


1898. 




Jiiuo 18 


r 


July 21 


K 


July 22 


(a) 


July 14 


F 


July 4 


F 


July 1 


I 


July 12 


F 


Jiilv 3 





July 13 


K 


July 14 


C 


July 17 


C 


July 19 


H 


July 25 


D 


July 21 


K 


Julv 24 


E 


July 23 


C 


Aug. 2 


C 


Aurr. 8 


F 


Aug. 5 


G 


Aug. 13 


E 


Aug. 8 


H 


Aug. 13 


L 


Aug. 16 


K 


Aug. 18 


A 


Aug. 16 


A 


Aug. 11 


L 


Aug. 15 


L 


Aug. 13 


M 


Aug. 17 


L 


Aug. 19 


G 


Aug. 18 


G 


Aug. 16 


A 


Aug. 18 


B 



Kegimeut. 



Diagnosis. 



Chaplin, "William E. . 
Spotts wood, Joseph C 
Simmons, Edwanl K. 
Jack.s.oii, George A . . 

Rilev, Frank J 

Gillmra, Robert T.... 

Bianen, Henry 

Miller, Louis 

Scott, Warren 

Fardy, William 

Kaylor, Charles A . . . 

Black, William T 

Cawin, Robert F 

Abel, Frederick 

Owensby, Amberson . 
McGraw, Joseph E. . . 

Elicksou, Tom 

Eveusone, Charles . . . 

Hart, Benjamin 

Mealsiead, Mace 

Green, Carlos F 

Katzenberg, John J. . 

Ryon, Charles W 

McNeil, William 

Giflbrd, Henry 

Telling. George 

Addi.siou, James 

Adams, Chase 

Newman, Henry 

Cooper, Arthur 

Mil ward, Claude 

Swartz, Albert J 

Young, Robert B 



Fourth Virginia .. 
....do.....^ 



Second Illinois 

do 

Fourth Virginia 

Second Illinois 

First Wisconsin 

do 

do 

do 

Twentieth Iowa , 

Second Virginia 

Foiirtli Virginia 

First North Carolina 

Fourth Virginia 

First Wisconsin 

do 

do , 

do 

Fourtli Illinois , 

Second New Jersey. . 

Second Virginia 

Fir.st Wisconsin , 

do 

do 

Second Virginia , 

First North Carolina 
Second New Jer.sey. . 

Second Illinois 

First Wisconsin 

do 

Second New Jersey. . 



Typhoid fever. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 
Cerebro-apinal meningitis. 
Typhoid lever. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

1)0. 

Do. 

Do 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 
App(!ndicitis. 
Typhoid fever. 
■ Do. 
, Do. 

Do. 

Do. 



a Hospital corps. 

RECAPITULATION. 

.June 1 

July 15 

August 19 17 

Total 33 

Deaths from diseases, etc., l>y organizations. 



Organization. 



50th Iowa 

2d New Jersej- 

1st AVisconsin 

2d Virginia 

4th Virginia 

2d Illinois 

1st North Carolina 

9th Illinois 

49th Iowa 

Ambulance corps 

Hospital corps 

Reserve ambulance corps . 

Signal corps 

4th Illinois 



Total . 



Typhoid. Malaria. Measles. Mumps. ^^^^'^'' ' 



Total, 352. 

Remark: Fifty patients sent to Pablo at 2 p. m. on the inth instant. 



16 



25 



420 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

3Ieiuoraa(lum statement of liospital fund. August IO4SOS. 

Cash ou band August 1 $80. 35 

Due from Armour & Co., for savings on frosli meat 433.29 

513. 64 
Exi)eude(l during current month 71. 45 

Cash nominallj' on hand for food, delicacies, kitchen ware, etc 443. 19 

Cash actually on hand S. 80 



Headqu.vkters Camp George H. Thomas, 

Office op Inspector-General, 
Chickamauga Park, Ga., August 20, 1S9S. 
ADJUTiUSTT-GENERAL, Camp Thonuis, Ga. 

Sir: I have tlie honor to submit the following report of inspection made of 
the infantry, cavalry, artillery, and .signal corps of this command, by officers of 
the Regular Army, especially detailed for that purpose, under provision of Gen- 
eral Orders No. 23, current series, headquarters Camp George H. Thomae: 

This inspection was preceded by a review of the entire command under the 
personal supervision of the major-general commanding, August 9, 1898. 

On the morning of August 10 the eight officers who were especially designated 
to assist me in making this inspection reported for this duty and were assigned, 
one to a regiment, thus enabling the comi^leting of the inspecting of a division 
each day. These inspections were continued from day to day until concluded. 

From the several reports of the inspectors submitted to this office, and from 
information gained of my own x^ersonal observation by visiting each organiza- 
tion, as well as division hospitals and division and brigade headquarters, the 
folloAving summary, showing the conditions and efficiency of the troops of the 
command, is deduced: 

Their proficiency in diills — comi>any, battalion, and regimental — is generally 
good; brigade and division only fair. In other military exercises, with few excep- 
tions, they are wanting. 

I find the equixjment of the different organizations in fairly good condition and 
fit for field service. 

The military bearing of troops, under arms, is good and very commendable, 
considering the short time they have been in the service. The deportment of 
officers and men is good, with rare exceptions. 

Ai-ms and field equipments are, in the main, good. The uniforms can only be 
rated fair. Provision should at once be made, should these troops be retained in 
service, to provide new uniforms for every soldier. 

Only in a few instances is proijer attention paid to stable duties. Troops are 
generally well equipped for field service, and wherever there has been found any 
deficiency requisitions have been made and apjiroved. 

Police of tents and gi-ounds is very good, but to that of the kitchen and men's 
sinks proper attention has not been paid. Camps that were not properly located 
were ordered to be changed, and have been changed, so that now all camps are 
located on the best grounds available for that purpose within the park limits and 
are properly drained. Where camps were not found properly policed and cared 
for it is directly attributable to ignorance and the lack of intelligent zeal or over- 
indulgence to the men on the part of the officers. 

The worst policed camp is that of the Third United States Volunteer Cavalry, 
and the least care is given to the animals of this regiment of any organization in 
the camp. The food of the men is well prepared and of the greatest abundance 
and of the best quality 



INSPECTION REPORTS. 421 

Regimental and company books and records are generally not complete nor prop- 
erly kept. The same can be said of brigade headquarters. Of division head- 
quarters, I find those of the Second Division. Third Corps, incomplete. 

Division hospitals. — I did not find any of them in proper condition of police, and 
absolutely inadequate, the patients lacking attention in the way of care; and I can 
not biit assert that in my opinion the means available are not utilized to their 
fullest extent for the ordinary care of the sick. As an illustration, I will recite 
here the details of the rejDort of the surgeon of the First Division, Tliird Corjis 
hospital, showing in detail the duties performed, and the personnel of the same: 

There was one commissioned medical ofiBicer reported as commander, one com- 
missioned medical officer as executive officer and attending siirgeon, one acting 
assistant siirgeon, attending surgeon, thi-ee medical officers sick. 

I found in the ambulance corps of this hos^jital five medical officers, including 
one major who had no duties at all in connection with the sick in hospital. 

In the hospital the total enlisted force on duty in various capacities was 110. 
twenty-four of whom were sick. This does not include the men on duty Avith 
the ambulance train. There were 271 patients in the hospital. 

It will be seen that of the twelve medical officers attached to this hospital only 
thi'ee were in attendance upon the sick, under which conditions I can not but 
believe that the services of the medical officers on dtity with the ambulance com- 
panj^ could more jjroperly be utilized in the wards, caring for the sick men. 

Many of the ward tents were without flooring, the groiind damp, wet, and 
musty. The capacity of this hospital is 138, and in its present overcrowded con- 
dition I find eight men in each tent, which was, at least, four too many. 

There was little difference between this hospital and that of others in the camp. 
I have already made verbal reports on this subject. 

Within the past month every camp occupied by troops has been moved from 
the timber to open and fairly wholesome gi'ounds. Frequent and careful inspec- 
tions have been made of the conditions of the camjis, and attention of officers 
called to the imperative necessity of a more close observation of the rules that 
shouM and must govern to insure the projier sanitary conditions of their camps. 
This has resulted in a most marked improvement in every particular. But the 
time has j^assed when the foulness of this park can be overcome so as to eliminate 
the inevitable, dangers attending the holding or camping of troops here, for any 
length of time, for the next twenty-five years. 

August 17 the entire command was again reviewed, and by contrast a most 
marked improvement is observed in the general appearance of the troops, and 
nothing but praise and commendation can be said of the force composing the 
same. 

Before closing this report, I can not refrain from again refemng to the Medical 
Department. With nothing but the highest regard for the i)rofessional ability of 
the corps, I am convinced that too much attention is given to matters outside of 
the sick wards, such as the ambulance companies, parades, etc., especially' in 
times like these, when our sick reports are so unusually large and the constant 
complaints of the Medical Department is lack of help. Throxigh ignorance and 
indifference and other causes our hospitals have been filled to overflowing: in 
many cases reported the sick have not received i:)roper care. This being the con- 
dition, every available medical officer and enlisted attendant should be on diity, 
in direct contact with the wards, and, for the time being, hang their swords on 
the wall, forget all the pomp and circiimstance attendant to parades and exer- 
cises of troops under arms; or, in other words, attend to the sick and ailing, that 
not a single man shall suffer for lack of the slightest attention. 

The reports of each officer who performed these duties have been submitted to 
your office. 



422 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WJTH SPAIN. 

The delay in submitting this report has been caused by the great aniotint of 

work required of this ofiSce during the past few days. 

Very respectfully, 

Frank D. Baldwin, 

lAeutenant-Colonel and Inspector-Oeneral of Volunteers. 

[First indorsement.] 

Headquarters Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., 

August 31, ISOS. 

Respectfully referred to Inspector-General of the Ai-niy. 

Many details have received attention as the inspection proceeded, but as all 
this command is now ordered to new stations it may be too late for the usiaal 
remedial action upon this general report, though it and those from the regiments, 
etc., probably contain information directly related to and supplementing the 
data secured during a similar inspection of the command last May, and this may 
be aided by Major Parker. 

Perhai^s the most noticeable features are how much the military instruction 

and efficiency have imjiroved and how greatly the sickness has increased, though 

with comparatively small percentage of deaths. 

J. C. Breckinridge, 

Major-General. 



Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., August 19, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, Camp Thomas. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that the conditions now prevalent here appear 
to call for the immediate abandonment of this camj). 

Since Jiily 25 the sick report here has increased from week to week, as follows: 

July 25 2,226 

August 1 2,975 

Augusts 3,681 

August 15 - 4,426 

August 18 4,894 

This last figure does not include over 1,300 men furloughed for sickness since 
July 25 and 291 discharged. The strength of the command is now about 43,000. 
An inspection of these figures will show that the number of sick men in tliis 
camp increases each week by one-fourth. At this rate of progression the sick will 
soon reach a number which with jjresent facilities it will be impracticable to 
handle. The causes of this undue rate of sickness, in my opinion, are as follows: 

This park, I think it can be shown, is not fitted to be a camping place for 
troops. First, the park is mainly a forest, with occasional openings only. These 
openings afford a very limited space for the exercises of the troops, grand maneu- 
vers being almost out of the question. To preserve these open spaces for drills, 
etc. , seemed to necessitate that the troops should camp in the woods. Such camps 
are not healthy. Being very largely in the shade, the tents and the groimd 
around them remain damp; the salutaiy action of sunlight on genu organisms is 
shtit off; the free movement of air, which would otherwise assist in the drying 
process, is prevented. The disadvantages of camping in the woods are especially 
apparent during the rainy season, but I think it may be said in general that it 
has been found that such camps are objectionable, and that the rule has been in 
the Regular Ai'my always, if possible, to camp in ground exposed to the sun. 
This rule was adhered to by the regular troops Avhen they were concentrated here 
this spring, but when the volunteers came here the necessity of preserving drill 
grounds, the number of the troops, and also the fact that the open spaces had 
already been largely used for camps for regulars, prevented the example of tbe 
regulars from being followed. 



INSPECTION KEPORTS. 423 

Again, the soil is not adapted to camping. It is, as a rtile, hard, tenacions clayc 
Such soil does not absorb. Slops, dirty water, grease, saliva, urine, vomit, etc., 
which it is impossible to keep from the ground in a closely packed camp, are not 
carried into the lower strata by subsequent rains, but are confined to the thin 
layer of mold, 1 or 2 inches thick, which lies on the siarface. This surface layer, 
in consequence, in a short time becomes thoronghly infected, breeding maggots, 
stench, and disease. Ftii-ther, in heavy rains the area of the infected ground is 
enlarged. Especially is this the case with the ground in the neighborhood of the 
various dumps, or places in the neighborhood of camps where refuse is thrown, 
which must become over a large area soaked with a solution of manure, garbage, 
and rotting refuse of all kinds. Owing to the great number of camps and of 
dumps, which are usually placed 100 yards or more from the camps, a very large 
area of the park is now impregnated from this cause alone, and much of it is 
rendered noisonie from the foul odors resulting. The clay soil of the park is 
underlaid with magnesium limestone. Magnesium limestone and clay are 
regarded by competent authorities as one of the worst combinations possible for 
a camping ground. (See Bach's Manual of Field Engineering, par. 458.) It is a 
characteristic of magnesium limestone that in it are always found sink holes, 
where the infected fluids from the ground flow and are stored, exposed to the air 
like open cesspools, breeding typhoid fever and other diseases. Further, the 
magnesia affects the water injuriously. 

Water. — It was a peculiar f eatiire of this camp that all troops on arriving here 
. were at once affected with a continuous and more or less severe diarrhea. Prac- 
' tically none escaped, whether officers or men , veterans or recruits. This intestmal 
derangement kept up for two or three weeks, sometimes longer, and there can be 
no doubt that in many cases by weakening and deranging the system it prepared 
the way for more serious ailments. There can also be no qiiestion that this 
diari-hea is due to the water, though what the constituent is that produces this 
effect is a matter of controversy. In the last two or three months typhoid fever 
has made its appearance here and the number of cases is now large and constantly 
increasing. It is believed that this disease is also largely propagated by infected 
water. The water here is derived from three sources: From wells, a limited 
supply; from springs, a limited supply, and from the Chickamauga River. The 
wells are of recent construction; most of them have been bored by the park 
authorities since the troops have arrived here. They are sunk, as a rule, over 100 
feet in order to reach a water-bearing strata. The water furnished by them is 
cool, and therefore much relished by the soldiers; but it is so strongly charged 
with lime and magnesia as to give, in some cases, a very perceptible briny taste. 
It is not unlikely that surface water is able to percolate down to the bottom of the 
wells by passing outside of the casing. For this reason, and on account of the 
strong solution of mineral matter, it is not believed that the water is good for the 
men. The quantity of this water which can be obtained is limited, since the wells 
give out by much pumping. The springs which afford any great volume of water 
are situated outside of the park. Blue Spring, from which most of the drinking 
water is obtained, l)eing 4 miles from some of the camps. The water is haiiled 
in barrels, caiTied on the regimental wagons. The supply of wagons and barrels 
being short, the amount of water which can thus be obtained is necessarily lim- 
ited. Under favorable circumstances 80 barrels, or about 3,000 gallons, per day 
can be hauled to a regiment, but often only half this quantity is obtained. This 
is the principal drinking water used by the num. While charged with lime and 
magnesia, it is believed to be fi-ee from infection. The main source of supply of 
water is Chickamauga River. This is a narrow, rather sluggish typical western 
winding creek, with steep clayey banks, sometimes with marshy borders, some- 
times with banks overgi-own with vines and trees. Much rotting driftwood is to 
be seen in the creek. It rises about 20 miles above the camp. Just above the 
camp is Crawfish Spring, a large spring, from which the creek receives a consider- 



424 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

able supply of good water. Nevertheless, at the intake of the pipe line the water 
is generally muddy, and especially so in freshets, thus indicating a large propor- 
tion of surface water. This creek has not a first-class reputation for healthfulness. 
The appearance of the inhabitants of the vicinity, seldom robust, almost uniformly 
thin and sallow, would seem to indicate that, on account of the water and other 
reasons, this is not a healthy locality. T>T^)hoid fever is of common occurrence 
here. A case of tjT^ihoid fever was found at the house of a Mr. Bradley, near 
Alexander bridge, as early as June 1. It is probable that others existed along the 
stream when the volunteers moved in here. The water of the creek is pumped in 
6-inch mains over a hill and thence flows by gravity to hydrants in the vicinity 
of the camps. Althoiigh the soldiers dislike it, this water, on account of the short 
supply of spring and well water, is much used for both cooking and drinking. 
For drinking it is boiled. It should be noted, however, that it is impossible to 
prevent some soldiers from obtaining and drinking unboiled water. Even this 
water is not piped directly to the camps, but in many has to be obtained by haul- 
ing it from a considerable distance. As a conseqiience there is rarely enough for 
general washing, and in some regiments men have been known not to wash for 
an entire week. 

Sufficient has been said of the character of Chickamauga Park, its soil and its 
water, to indicate that it has certain drawbacks which prevent it from being an 
ideal camping place for troops. These disadvantages have been increased by 
certain facts in connection with its occupancy. 

When the volunteer troops arrived here in May they were inexperienced in the 
details of camping. Moreover, they were poorly supplied with materials and tools 
of all kinds. It is absolutely necessary in this climate that latrines be dug deep 
and boxed and roofed in. Many regiments had no picks or even shovels; they had 
no liimber, and in consequence of these obstacles insufficient latrines were dug; 
the men relieved nature all through the w^ods, and the groimd around the camp 
quickly became contaminated. The rains quickly filled the shallow latrines, and 
their contents ran over the surface of the groimd. This made it necessary to dig 
new latrines, which in turn had to be abandoned. I know of one camp which has 
over 200 old latrines on its outskirts. The holes for garbage near kitchens became 
filled with water in the same manner. All these places, shallow trenches with a 
thin covering of soil, are now emitting poisonous gases from the decomposing 
material beneath. The camps have been changed to new sites only to extend 
foulness and infection. The whole park reeks with it. It is estimated that 8.000 
tons of excrement, garbage, manure, and sweepings now infect it. The troops 
now have better methods of treating their offal and garbage — the latrines are 
proi^erly closed, the garbage in some instances is burned, the manure and refuse 
burned if possible. The troops are now camping in the open drill fields, where 
they get plenty of sun and air. Every precaution is being taken. But it is too 
late. The mischief has been done. This park as a camping place is inciirably 
infected. Every breeze carries a stench. The sick report mounts day by day. 
A general las.situde is apparent in men and officers. The months in which tyiihoid 
fever and malaria are most common are at hand. The cases of typhoid fever have 
reached 500, and the whole situation presages a general epidemic. 

Under the circumstances detailed above, no remedy exists excei^t a general 
departure of the troops from this i)lace. 

Very respectfully, James Parker, 

Major, Twelfth New I'orfc Volunteers, 

Inspector of Sanitation, etc. 

A true copy. 

G. R. Cecil, 

Assistant Adjutant-General. 



STATEMENT OF FACTS REGARDING RECENT CHANGES IN THE 

INSPECTION SYSTEM OF THE ARMY, AND THE ASSIGNMENT 

OF INSPECTORS-GENERAL DURING THE PRESENT WAR. 



425 



War Department, Washington, November ■?9, 1S98. 
Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, 

President Commission Apiwinted by the President to Investigate 
the Conduct of the War Department in the War vnth Spain, 

Washington, D. C. 

Sir : Agreeably to your verbal request, the following statement of facts regard- 
ing recent changes in the inspection system, of the Army, and the assignment of 
inspectors-general during the present war, is respectfully submitted : 

On March 30, 189."), my i^redecessor issued an order (G. O., No. 18, series 1895) 
organizing the country into inspection districts. This was done in a time of pro- 
found peace, and, as I am Informed, largely for economical reasons. These dis- 
tricts did not coincide with the lines of the territorial departments ; and neither 
were the inspectors under the control of the commanders of such departments, 
but reported directly to the senior Inspector- General at Washington. 

From the very beginning of this system, I am informed, complaints against it 
were made by the department commanders, one of whom embodied in his annual 
report of last year disapproval of the system, and to which the Major-General 
Commanding the Army called the Secretary of War's special attention. 

On March 23, 1898, it became evident that this system was not applicable to the 
conditions of war, when the general order of March 30, 1895, was repealed and 
the general order (No. 81. of June 27, 1898) now in force was substituted (copies 
of both orders herewith). 

On April 25, 1898, General Breckinridge asked to be appointed major-general of 
volunteers, and on May 4 was so appointed, but continued on staff duty until 
July 27. From June 14 to July 20 he was with General Shaffer "s expedition to 
Santiago, and was iiresent in the engagements before that city. Copy of his report 
of observations already furnished yoxir commission. 

On August 3 he was assigned to the command of the troops at Camp Thomas, 
Ga., and on September 12 to the command of the First Army Corps, at Lexing- 
ton, Ky. 

The General Order of June 27, prescribing rules for the guidance of inspectors- 
general, was drawn by Inspector-General Sanger, and under date of June 7 was 
approved by Inspector-General Breckinridge, in an indorsement written at Tampa. 
The only change made in the original draft related to forwarding of inspection 
reports. In accordance with long-established regulations, it w;is provided for the 
transmission of these reports through the office of the Adjutant-General. It is 
proper here to note that there is not, at this time, in this office or in that of the 
Adjutant-General, a single inspection report, every one having been promptly 
referred to the Inspector-General. 

It will be noticed that General Breckinridge continued to serve in the Inspector- 
General's Department, with the rank of major-general of volunteers, for several 
months after the outbreak of the war ; in fact, nearly up to the time when hostili- 
ties ceased. 

It is also of record that General Breckinridge, as early as April 30, recom- 
mended every officer in the Inspector-General's Department for commissions as 
general officers in the Volunteer Army. Four of these officers were commissioned 
as such. The senior colonel, George A. Burton, then remaining for duty with the 
regular establishment, was ordered to Washington for duty and put in charge of 

the office. .„„ 

427 



428 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Of the nine inspectors of volunteers with the rank of lieutenant-colonel, sis were 
appointed from the Regular Army on their eificiency record; three from the 
National Guard, one of whom had distinguished service as an officer during the 
war of the rebellion. 

Of the twenty-three majors in the Inspector General's Department appointed to 
the volunteer service sixteen were from captains and lieutenants of the Regular 
Arm}', appointed purely upon their record for efficiency and established ability. 
The seven from civil life, with one exception, had had large experience with the 
National Guard of their several States. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



General Orders, \ Headquarters of the Army, 

> Adjutant-General's Office, 

No. 18. ) Washington, March 30, 1S95. 

By direction of the Secretary of War, the following is published for the infor- 
mation and guidance of all concerned : 

Department commanders will inspect the troops under their command at least 
once each year, and for this purpose they will be accompanied by one officer of 
the personal or department staff serving at their respective headciuarters. They 
will assure themselves hy personal examination and observation that all offi- 
cers and men under their control are efficient in the performance of duty; that 
the troops are thoroughly drilled and instructed in their field duties and tactical 
exercises; that supplies are properly distributed; that i^roper care is exercised in 
the purchase and preservation of public property; and that strict economy is 
exercised in all public expenditures. In their annual reports department com- 
manders will summarize the results of these inspections. 

Inspection districts are hereby established, to be designated as follows: 

The North Atlantic, the South Atlantic, the Middle, the Northern, the Southern, 
and the Pacific. The limits of the several districts will be designated in special 
instructions to be given hereafter. 

Col. Robert P. Hughes, inspector-general, is assigned to the North Atlantic 
district and will take station in New York City. 

Col. George H. Burton, inspector-general, is assigned to the Pacific district and 
will take station in San Francisco, Cal. 

Lieut. Col. Henry W. Lawton, inspector-general, is assigned to the Southern 
district and will take station in Santa Fe, N. Mex. 

Lieut. Col. Peter D. Vroom, inspector-general, is assigned to the Middle district 
and will take station in Chicago, 111. 

Maj. Joseph P. Sanger and Maj. E. A. Garlington, inspectors-general, are 
assigned to the South Atlantic district and will take station in Washington, D. C. ; 
they will also act as assistants to the Inspector-General of the Army. 

Maj. Francis Moore, Fifth Cavalry, is assigned to the Northern district as act- 
ing inspector-general and will take station in Denver, Colo. 

With the exception of Colonel Burton, these officers will be relieved from their 
present duties in season to join their new stations on the 30th of April, 1895. 

Colonel Burton will be relieved from his present duties on April 30, 1895, and 
will join his new station not later than May 31, 1895. 

The travel enjoined is necessary for the public service. 

The Quartermaster's Department will provide the necessary office rooms, furni- 
ture, and stationery. 

Inspectors-general and acting inspectors-general will exercise a comprehensive 



ARMY INSPECTION SYSTEM. 129 

anil s'eneral observation within their respective districts over all that pertains to 
tho efficiency of the Army, the condition and state of supplies of all kinds, of arms 
and e(iuipments, of the expenditure of public in-operty and moneys, and the con- 
dition of accounts of all disbursing officers of every branch of the service, of the 
conduct, discipline, and efficiency of officers and troops, and report with strict 
impartiality in regard to all irregularities that may be discovered. From time to 
time they will make such suggestions as may appear to them practicable for the 
cure of any defect that may come under their observation. 

All military posts and important detachments therefrom, all depots of supplies, 
and all arsenals, armories, and other ordnance establishments will be inspected 
annually. 

The inspection of accounts of disbursing officers will be directed from time to 
time in instructions from the War Department. 

Unless otherwise specially ordered, national cemeteries and ungarrisoned posts 
will be inspected once in two years, and this only when the visits can be made 
without materially increasing the work and travel of district inspectors-general. 

This order will take effect on April 30, 1895. 
' By command of Lieuteuant-General Schofield: 

Geo. D. Ruggles, 

Adju tant- General. 



General Orders, ) Headquarters of the Army, 

V Adjutant-General's Office, 

No. 81. ) Washington, June 27, 1898. 

By direction of the Secretary of War, the following instructions relating to the 
inspection service of the armies in the field are published for the information and 
guidance of all concerned : 

1. Inspecting officers, selected when practicable from the inspectors-general of 
the Regular or Volunteer Army, are assigned by the War Department to the head- 
quarters of geographical departments and to the headquarters of armies and 
army corps in the field, and by the commanding generals thereof to divisions. 

In the absence of such assignment, and to fill temporary vacancies, commanding 
generals of armies, army corps, divisions, and geographical departments may 
detail officers from their commands for such duty, reporting their action to the 
Adjutant-General of the Army for the information of the War Department, sub- 
sequently to be transmitted to the Inspector-General of the Army for record. 

2. In order to discharge his duties efficiently, an inspector should make himself 
familiar with everything relating to the different branches of service within the 
scope of his investigations. Industrious attention must therefore be given by him 
to the study of the regulations and laws for the government of the army, the 
systems of instruction, and the general principles of the military profession. The 
sphere of inquiry of an inspector includes every branch of military affairs, except 
when specially limited in orders or by the Army Regulations. 

8. Upon arriving at his station an inspector- general, or acting inspector-general 
will report to the commanding general in person and by letter to the Adjutant- 
General of the Army, and thereafter will report to him monthly the inspections 
and investigations made by him ; to this end he will keep a record of the various 
services performed and the dates thereof. The attention of inspectors is especially 
called to Articles LVII, LVIII, and LXXII, Army Regulations. 

4. An inspector-general or acting inspector-general will make known his orders 
or instructions to commanding or other officers whose troops and affairs he is 
directed to inspect, and these officers will see that every facility and assistance, 
including clerical aid and the use of an orderly, are provided if requested. If 



430 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

ordered to investigate accusations prejudicial to tlie character of an officer, he will 
make known their nature to the officer and give him an opportunity to make his 
own statement in writing, which he will append to his report. Harmony as well 
as justice to the individual and the public rerxuire that such reports be maintained 
inviolably confidential and that they should not of themselves be made the basis 
of official proceedings. In the investigation of misconduct or attempt to defraud 
the Government on the part of any officer or agent of the United States, the 
inspector is authorized to administer oaths to witnesses. Inspection reports of 
troops, of disbursements, money accounts, and unserviceable property will be 
rendered on the prescribed forms and will be submitted to the officer ordering the 
inspection. 

5. An inspector-general, or acting inspector-general, will not give orders unless 
specially authorized to do so, and then only in the name of the superior giving 
such authority. He will report with strict impartiality all irregularities coming 
under his notice, as well as the remedies applied to correct them, and will 
refrain from informal conversation or comment upon subjects of inspection or 
investigation. When in the course of an inspection an inspector obtains confi- 
dential information respecting matters affecting the piiblic service, he will com- 
municate such information in an oral or written special report. 

6. All nonconfidential inspection reports will be forwarded, through regular 
channels, to the Adjutant-General of the Army, for transmittal to the Inspector- 
General of the Army. When irregularities, deficiencies, or misconduct are 
reported, the several commanders will state, in forwarding the reports, what 
remedies have been or will be applied to correct them. 

7. Inspectors will make written memoranda on the spot of every defect, irregu- 
larity, or neglect observed during their inspections ; also any particular excellence 
which may strike their attention. 

INSPECTION OF TROOPS. 

8. Inspections of troops will be conducted as prescribed in the authorized drill 
regulations, and when the command consists of more than one company, will be 
preceded by a review when practicable. 

All officers and enlisted men, except the guard, the sick, and one cook per com- 
pany, will be i)resent at inspection under arms. 

The inspector will ascertain and report whether there be any officers or enlisted 
men in excess of the prescribed organizations ; absentees will be accounted for 
and the precise status of all officers stated ; he will critically observe and report 
upon the military bearing and appearance of the trooi)s and their discipline; 
whether regularly mustered and paid and the date of last payment; whether 
parades, guard mounting, and roll calls are in proper form ; whether company, 
battalion, and regimental inspections are frequently and regularly made, and by 
whom ; the condition of the arms, accouterments, field equipments, and uniforms ; 
the gun carriages, implements, eqiiipments of batteries ; of riding equipments and 
harness, and whether well fitted: of horses, whether well treated, shod, and cared 
for, and free from disease; whether troops are fully equipped for field service, and 
blanket bags uniformly and properly packed; the police of tents, grounds, kitch- 
ens, and sinks; whether camps are well located, properly drained, and thoroughly 
policed: the condition of the water supply : the composition and instruction of camp 
guards, and number of prisoners: whether the troops are proficient in the differ- 
ent drills, advance guard, and outpost, in target practice, signaling, pitching shel- 
ter tents, first aid to the injured, and whether every officer and enlisted man has a 
first aid packet: whether the required books, records, and reports are kept and ren- 
dered, and company and all public funds legitimately expended and accounted for; 
whether the transportation, including ambulances, stretchers, and travois, the 
quartermaster's, commissary's, medical, and ordnance supplies are sufficient and 



ARMY INSPECTION SYSTEM. 431 

iu good condition; the police and capacity of the hospital; mimber of sick and 
wounded, and whether they receive proper attention: the prevalence of epidemic 
or other diseases ; whether all officers are zealons and intelligent, reporting any 
who are addicted to intemperance and gambling, or who frequent low company, 
or are incapacitated in any way for active service. 

9. In the inspection of heavy artillery the inspector will report whether the bat- 
teries are assigned to gmis ; whether the guns, carriages, appliances, ammunition, 
platforms, magazines, parapets, etc., are preserved in good order ; whether maga- 
zines are frequently aired and the means prescribed for locating objects and the 
control of the fire are in good working order. 

10. In the inspection of cavalry the inspector will classify cavalry horses thus — 
(a) Those to be condemned as unfit for any use whatever in any branch of the 

service. These will be disposed of according to Army Regulations. 

(?)) Those unfit for cavalry service, but fit for team or draft horses. These will 
be ttirned into the Quartermaster's Department. 

(c) Those Tinfit for service, but susceptible of recuperation by timely treatment. 

(d) Serviceable horses. 

The number of each class will be given in every report of inspection. 

11. Bearing in mind the specialties of each arm, the inspector will test the 
infantry and cavalry in making an attack, over a distance of at least 1,000 to 
1,500 yards, against an enemy, either indicated or represented: in the proper dis- 
position of advance and rear guards, on the march, at a halt, and when attacked; 
in the formation of an outpost according to the cordon or group system, or both. 

In the inspection of field batteries they should be reqiiired to advance rapidly, 
and take up a position to attack or defend some point; the inspector will note 
whether the batteries are properly subdivided for marching and action, and 
whether the reserve, traiia, etc., are judiciously located. Similarly in the inspec- 
tion of the heavy artillery, the entire garrison should be disposed for battle, a 
squadron of the enemy will be assumed, the leading ship being represented by 
some vessel approaching or leaving the harbor; skill in aiming, the efficiency of 
fire control, supply of ammunition, and all the appliances of the defense will be 
tested, the object of this and the other inspections of troops being to determine 
the degree of their preparation for active service. 

These exercises being of paramount importance, will have precedence over the 

drills when time is pressing. 

In the inspection of permanent posts and garrisons the scope of the inspection 
and report will conform to the requirements of prescribed memoranda and the 
Army Regulations covering that subject. 

INSPECTION OF ADMINISTKATION, DISBURSEMENTS, AND ACCOUNTS. 

i2. In making these inspections the inspector will inquire as to the necessity, 
economy, and propriety of all disbursements, their strict conformity to the law 
appropriating the money, and whether the disbursing officers comply with the law 
and regulations in keeping the public funds, their accounts, and making their 
disbursements and deposits. The disbursing officer will prepare a statement of 
his accounts on Form 3, Inspector-General's Department, together with a list of 
outstanding checks. Form 3a. The inspector will verify the statement from the 
cashbook, Treasury receipts, vouchers, etc., and compare the vouchers with the 
check stubs and depository statements, and will count the cash on hand. It will 
be observed whether or not disbursing officers are familiar with their duties, and 
are prompt, accurate, and courteous in conducting their business; whether issues 
and payments are made strictly in compliance with law. and whether any unau- 
thorized funds are kept. Persons employed and things hired will be seen as far 
as practicable, and the necessity for their employment and hire established. 



432 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
INSPECTION OF PROPERTY FOR CONDEMNATION. 

lo. This duty will be performed by inspectors-general or acting inspectors- 
general, assisted when necessary by such officers as may be specially detailed for 
the purpose. The attention of inspectors is directed to paragraphs 878-889, Arnj\ 
Regulations, which will govern in making these inspections. Whenever a waul 
of proper care in the preservation of Government property comes to the know! 
edge of the inspector, he will report the fact. All reports of inspection of prop- 
erty will be submitted by the inspector through his immediate commander to the 
officer empowered to order final disposition of the property. 

Inspectors will state in their reports of damaged or inferior (luartermasttT, 
commissary, or medical stores, the source from which they were obtained, and. 
when practicable, the names of the officers or inspectors who furnished and 
Ijassed the articles so reported. 

The necessary blank forms, which have the force and eifect of Ai-my Regula- 
tions, will be furnished by the Inspector-General of the Ai"my. 

By command of Major-Geueral Miles : 

H. C. CORBIN, 

Adjutant-General. 






OFFICIAL DUCUMENTS FUOM THE QlIARTERMASTEIi-OENERAL, U. S. A. 



7833— VOL 1 28 433 



OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS FROM THE QUARTERMASTER- 
GENERAL. 



War Department, 
Quartermaster-General's Office, 
Washingfon, October U, ISDS. 
The Adjutant-General of the Army. 

Sir: In coiupliance with your communication of tlie 27th ultimo, I have tlie 
honor to submit the following report for the information of the commission 
appointed by the President to investigate the conduct of the War Department in 
the war with Spain. 

The unnumbered queries propounded ))y the commission will fii'st be answered: 

QtTestion. The amount and land of camp and garrison equipage and other sup- 
plies that were on hand at the beginning of the war, the amount subsequently 
l)urchased, when and where purchased, when and Avhere delivered to your 
Department, and when and where actually issued to the trooi)s? 

Answer. The amount of the principal articles of clothing, camp and garrison 
equipage, and clothing and equipage materials that were on hand at the general 
depots of the Quartermaster's Department on the 1st of April last, is shown in 
the accompanying statement marked "A," but in order that the Commission may 
have a complete statement of the status of the clothing and eipiipage stipplies on 
said date, a column has been added (though not called for) showing the articles 
that were due on contracts then in existence, thus making the statement of the 
resources of the Department at that particular time complete. 

The accompanying statement ■' B " shows in detail the principal articles of cloth- 
ng and equipage manufactured by this Department at the manufacturing depots 
from April 30 to August 15, inclusive, and statement "C" the qiiantities that 
were purchased or contracted for during the same period. The depots or places 
at which the articles were manufactxired or i^urchased are also set forth. 

The issue of clothing and equipage supplies, as ordered by this office, is speci- 
fied in the accompanjdng statement marked " D." It shows in detail the quanti- 
ties of clothing and equipage shipped from the supply depots to the several camp.s, 
from May 1 to August 15, and the total quantities supplied for distribution to 
troops. The exact time at which the supplies placed at the camps were issued to 
troops is not of record here; nor is it believed to be possible to obtain the infor- 
mation within any reasonable period. It may be said in general that they were 
issued daily, or from time to time, diaring the existence of the particiilar camp. 

The answers made xinder questions 3 and 6 cover the data as far as now com- 
plete in this office, but if the commission desires the statement to be continued 
to a later date this office will cheerfully comply, although it will require con- 
siderable time to collect the information. 

The accompanying statement, marked " Exhibit E," shows the number of pub- 
lic animals, wagons, ambulances, harness, field desks, field ranges, bread ovens, 
and paulins on hand April 1, 1898, the number subsequently purchased, and the 
mimber issued. The other items of qiiartermaster supplies consist of such a great 
variety of articles that it is not considered practicable to list tliem within any 
reasonable time. 

Question. Which of the volunteers were armed and equipped in the various 
State camps, and which in the general camps? 

Answer. To what extent the volunteers were supplied with clothing and equi- 
page in the various State camps can not be obtained from the record of this office. 
In only a very few instances were they fully ecjuipped. They were illy supplied 

435 



4o(J INVES'I'IGATION OF CONUUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

with underwear, shoes, and tentage. Many were sent to camps without any uni- 
forms whatsoever. Every effort was made to relieve snch cases by telegrai)hing 
authority to piirchase, at point of muster, such articles as shirts, drawers, stock- 
ings, shoes, and tents i)rocurable. 

Question. Full particulars relative to the transportation of troops by sea, giving 
an account of the provisions made for the accommodation and care of the sick and 
wounded? 

Answer. Full jiarticulars relative to the transportation of troops by sea arc 
given in the answers to the niimbered questions. 

For the care and transportation of sick and wounded, the Quartermaster's 
Dei^artment purchased from the Maine SteamshiiJ Company of Portland, Me., 
the large steamship John Englis. The interior of this ship was remodeled under 
the immediate supervision of an oflScer of the Medical Department. An electric 
plant for lighting and i^urif ying the air, condensing apparatus, sterilizing and 
launthy plants were installed, and two fine steam launches were jjrovided. This 
ship is now named Relief. 

Also the steamshij) Missouri, owned by the Atlantic Transport Line, was simi- 
larly fitted up by this Dei^artment under the immediate supervision of an officer 
of the Medical Department, and every appliance put upon her for the care and 
comfort of sick and wounded. 

Both of these ships are under the control of the Medical Department of the 
Army, an officer of that department being assigned to duty on each vessel. 

The transport ships of the Quartermaster's Department were not fitted ui) for 
hosi>itals, except the steamship Olivette, ui)on which there was installed condens 
ing apparatus and other aii-angements for the care of sick and Avotmded after her 
rettirn to New York from Cuba, and an officer of the Medical Department 
assigned to have charge of those being transported upon her. 

Several other transport ships, after their return from Cuba, were fitted xip for 
the more comfortable transportation of the convalescents and returned to Santiago 
for another load. 

Qtiestion. As to the iiroi^er tentage, beds, linen, medicines, food, and all other 
necessary equipment and supplies for the use of the Hospital Cori)s of the Army; 
if there was any lack of these things at any time, state the reasons therefor. 

Answer. As to proper tentage for use of the Hospital Corps, the demands have 
at all times been promptly met. The records of this office show no instance 
where calls for hospital tents, ai^in-oved by the Surgeon-General, were not imme- 
diately ordered by telegraph. A total of 4,333 hospital tents were supplied, being 
ample accommodations for 25.993 sick; 473 ambulances were issu.ed and any nec- 
essary cooking apparatus called for. 

The siTpi>ly of the other articles mentioned does not pertain to the Quartermas- 
ter's Department. 

The answers to the numbered questions are as follows: 

Question 1. Upon the declaration of war, was the organization and were the 
regulations of the Department of such a character as to admit of the promjit 
ecpiipment and movement of troops? 

Answer. The organization of the Quartermaster's Department at the time speci- 
fied admitted of the prompt equipment and movement of troops, not only uf the 
Army as then constituted, but of one at least double its size, under a condition of 
peace, but not of an army ten times its size under conditions of war carried on in 
a foreign country. 

The prevailing regulations of the Department were framed under statutes and 
orders for a peace establishment, and in some respects the statutes were not 
elastic enough to meet the rapid equipment of a quarter of a million of men. 

Question 2. How many officers belonged to the Department when war was 
declared, and how many (with their rank) have been appointed in the volunteer 
service since that time? 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASPER-GENERAL; 



437 



Answer. When war with Spain was declared, April 22, 1898, there were 57 oflBicers 
belonging to the Quartermaster's Depai-tmeut. as follows: 1 brigadier-general, 4 
colonels, 8 lieutenant-colonels. 14 majors, and 30 captains — 57 officers in all. 

Volunteer officers have been appointed in the Quartermaster's Department since 
the declaration of war as follows (acts approved April 22 and July 7, 1898): 2 col- 
onels, 9 lieutenant-colonels, 25 majors, and 85 captains— 121 volunteer quarter- 
masters. 

Of the above 121 volunteer officers, 60 were appointed in May, 1898, 28 in June, 
26 in July, and 7 in August. Of these appointees 23 qualified in May, 49 in June. 
:)1 in July, 14 in August, and 4 in September. 

Twenty-two of the regular officers of the Quartermaster's Department received 
commissions in the volunteer service of this Department, and one received a 
volunteer commission in the Judge-Advocate-General's Department. Deducting 
these 23 officers from the total number of both regular and volunteer quarter- 
masters, left available 155 officers for ser^^ce in the Quartermaster's Department 
during hostilities. 

Question 3. For an army of what size was the Department prepared to fully 
supply all necessary clothing, camp and garrison equippage on April 1, 1898? 

Answer. The Department on the 1st of April last was prepared to supply the 
existing Army, and from 8.000 to 10.000 men in addition for three months. This is 
predicated on a compliance of post commanders with orders which contemplated 
that at least three months" supply shoxild always be on hand at each post for the 
reqiiirements of its garrison. 

Question 4. Was the clothing on hand and ready for issue to troops, and that 
previoiTsly issiied, of a character suitable for use in a tropical climate? 

Answer. The clothing on hand and ready for issue to troops on the 1st of April 
last, and that previously issued, was not of a character specially suited to tropical 
climates, being intended for use of troops stationed at places imder the jiirisdiction 
of our Government, at none of which a tropical climate prevailed. 

Question 5. What amount of tentage xs'as available, and were the troops sent 
from garrison life to the field at once furnished with necessary tentage and other 
quartermaster supplies necessary for use in camp life? 

Answer. The number of tents available April 1, 1898, was as follows: 



Tents/ 



nospital . . . 
Conical wall 

Wall 

Common 

Shelter 



In hands 


At 


of troops. 


depots. 


513 


218 


1,127 


325 


2,202 


487 ' 


4,996 


1,761 i 


28, 029 


9,863 1 

1 



Total. 



731 

1,4.52 

2,749 

C, 7,57 

37, 892 



The regulation allowance of tentage for troops of the Regular Army was on 
hand at the garrisons where the troops were stationed, and was carried by them 
into the field. To a great extent they also carried \vith them the other (piarter- 
master supplies necessary for use in camp life; any additional articles needed 
were qiiickly furnished. They likewise took with them about all the wagon 
transportation at the posts where stationed. This was limited to post require- 
ments, and, although answering for such purpose, was insufficient to meet needs 
in the field. 

Question 6. What steps were taken for fully supplying an army of 250,000 men 
with suitable clothing, camp and garrison equipage, and what amount of mate- 
rial of each kind had been obtained and what amount issued up to August 31, 
1898? 

Answer, Prior to the declaration of war the work of manufacture of clothing 
and tentage was p(n-formed at our depots on a scale commensurate with the needs 
of the Army: a reasonable reserve stock being kept on liand. In March last 



43<S mVEF^TIGATTON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

when comxjlications with Spain seemed possible, this office instructed officers at 
manufacturing depots to push manufactures in certain lines, and authorized addi- 
tional material for tentage and clothing to be purchased, not, however, on an 
extensive scale, as the situation then did not warrant such action. On the 26th 
day of March the officers of the quartermaster's depots at Philadelphia, New York, 
St. Louis, and Chicago were instriTcted to ascertain and report what niimber, 
kind, and sizes of new tents complete were on hand and could be purchased, and 
how rapidly tents could be made by princii^al manufacturers, if required; this in 
order that knowledge of the market might be had in case of a hasty need of 
tents. Purchases were made during the early part of April to strengthen the 
stock, and about the middle of that month the depot quartermaster at Philadel- 
phia was instructed to communicate with all manufacturers and contractors for 
blankets, blouse and shirting flannels, kersey, shoes, leggings, and other neces- 
saries, and ascertain and report at what prices and in what quantities and by 
what time they can furnish them to the Department. 

On April 20 the same officer was instructed to advertise under five days' notice 
for a large quantity of materials, consisting of kersey, blouse flannel, blouse-lin- 
ing flannel, etc.; also to invite prox)osals under ten days' notice for blankets, 
shirting flannel, forage cai^s, drawers, leggings, ponchos, shoes, summer under- 
shirts, pickaxes, shovels, and other articles; also for the manufacture from mate- 
rial on hand of a large number of blouses, jiannel shirts, and trousers. 

On the 25tli of April he was also authorized to invite proposals under ten days' 
notice for a very large (quantity of all classes of material, clothing, and tentage, 
api^roximating in value $3,039,998.87. 

Purchases were also arranged for during the months of April and May at New 
York, Chicago, St. Louis, Boston, and Baltimore, aggregating over $3,000,000. 

It will be seen by reference to Exhibit D, accompanying this rejjort, that among 
the items sent out for issue between May 1 and Atigust 15 were the following: 
Blankets, 546,338; blouses, 390,775; trousers, 523,203; campaign hats. 476.705; can- 
vas field uniforms, 153,167; shoes, 782.303; leggings, 588,800; dark-blue flannel 
shirts, 622,211; undershirts, 1.257,002; drawers, 1,210,682; axes, 38,963; trumpets, 
4,888; camp kettles, 34,344; mess pans, 58,663; various kinds of tents, exclusive of 
shelter tents, 64,980; shelter tent, halves, 372,379. 

Recourse was had to every expedient to obtain supplies, but great difficulties 
had to be overcome. There was practically no standard tent duck in the market 
of the United States, and the production of tents was entirely governed by the 
ability of the mills to turn out the projjer material. That tents of proper quality 
could not be immediately supplied is apparent. To meet pressing and immediate 
demands of the troops first naustered in, the Department purchased all tentage to 
be obtained in the various cities of the country which seemed of fair quality. 
The life of many of these tents was short. 

The same difficulty of production was met with in many other articles supplied 
by this Department; particularly was it the case with sky-blue kersey trousers, 
where the wool had to be dyed oiit of which to manufacture the cloth from which 
to make the garments. Owing to the inability to get sky-blue kersey, the Depart- 
ment was obliged to have made some dark-blue trousers. These trousers being 
lighter weight, were not equal in quality to those i^reviously issued to regular 
troops, and were not desired by the troops on accoiint of difference in color. 

This was noticeably the case at Camp Thomas, where the quartermaster com- 
plained of inability to get sufficient trousers, although there was on hand at the 
camp a considerable supply of dark-blue trousers. 

To those unfamiliar with it the labor connected with the securing and distrib- 
uting this vast amount of siii^plies is not appreciated. Take the item of shoes: 
it represents a daily delivery, were it evenly distributed, from April 22 to August 
12, Sundays included, of about 4.000 x^airs per day, and of all articles of clothing 



REPLY OF QT^VRTERMASTER-GENERAL. 439 

and equipage a daily delivery of over 56,000 articles. During all this rush the 
Department was obliged to be most vigilant to prevent articles of inferior quality 
being imposed upon the Government. To this end a large corps of inspectors 
had to be employed, and they in turn vfatched. 

In the distribution of these supplies there was certainly no "red tape" as far 
as the Quartermaster-Genei-al's Office is concerned. Without waiting for requi- 
sitions or requests of any sort, supplies in kind and quantity judged by this office 
likely to be required were shipjjed in bulk to the various points of concentration, 
and the dejiot quartermasters there urged from time to time to inform the 
Quartermaster-General as the suj^ply of any particular article ran low. 

Question 7. How many public animals and how many wagons with harness 
were available April 1, 1898? 

Answer. There were 8,722 public animals (consisting of 6,701 horses and 2,021 
niTiles), 1.188 wagons, and 4,963 sets of harness available in the Quartermaster's 
Department on April 1, 1898. (See Exhibit A.) 

Question 8. What steps were taken for obtaining additional animals, wagons, 
and harness; how were they obtained, and what number has been purchased and 
issued by August 31, 1898? 

Answer. Horses for cavalry were generally purchased in the States from which 
the regiment came, so far as jjracticable and economical, by boards of regular offi- 
cers appointed for the purpose, and these boards visited different points, not 
involving too much travel, where sufficient numbers of animals were offered for 
inspection. The mules and part of the horses were purchased by experienced and 
qualified officers of the Quartermaster's Department, who, after a call for figures, 
either by letter, wire, or verbally, made purchase accordingly. 

In the case of wagons and harness, this office, before the declaration of war, 
called upon all in'omineut wagon and harness manufacturers of the country for 
information as to how rapidly and at what prices they could supply wagons and 
harness suited to army use, if suddenly called upon in emergency, and to what 
extent their factories could be relied ujion to supply the needs of the Army. 
Numerous replies to these inquiries were received, and all that offered promise of 
assistance in quantities and time to meet threatening demands were made the 
basis for action when the actual demand for these supplies came. These inquiries 
covered not only the ability to manufacture wagons and harness, but also secured 
information as to stock of ready-made wagons and harness on hand which could 
be made available in emergency. This enabled the Department to procure 
rapidly when called upon the means of transportation to actually equip the Army 
for field service by i^lacing large numbers of wagons and wagon parts and quan- 
tities of harness at convenient points for issue as required. SiTch subdepots of 
supply were established at Tampa. Chickamauga, and other points of probable 
convenience. 

Subsequently the wagons and harness v/ere iDurchased, after a call for figures, 
on short notice either by letter or by wire, from leading dealers, the purchase in 
all cases being from the lowest bidder for the most suitable article. 

Thii-ty-six thousand eight hundi-ed public animals (consisting of 16,618 horses 
and 20,182 mules) were purchased, and 30,033 animals (consisting of 10,483 horses 
and 19,.~)50 mules) issued by August 31, 1898; 5,179 wagons of various kinds were 
purchased, and 4,891 issued by August 31, 1898; 28,012 sets of .single harness were 
piirchased, and 26,634 sets were issued by August 31, 1898. (See Exhiliit E.) 

Question 9. What arrangements had been made previous to April 1 , 1898, for the 
rapid movement of trooi^s by laud and by water? 

LAND. 

Answer. No arrangements were made for movement of troops by land previous 
to A]}Yi\ 1, as none seemed necessary. 



440 INVESTIGATION OF OONDTTCT OF WAl? WITH SPAIN. 

On May 8, in anticipation of the movements of the volunteer forces of the 
country to field duty, the Quartermaster-General prepared lists of those to be 
shipped from each locality and sent them to the officers of the Quartermaster's 
Department, who v?ould be charged with the transportation. The following is a 
copy of the letter as sent out: 

Chief Quartermaster, Department of the Lakes, 

Chicago, III. 

Sir: The War Department has informed the Quartermaster-General that as 
soon as mustered in and equipped at the several points of rendezvous in the States 
referred to the volunteer forces of the United States mentioned on the inclosed 
statement will be sent to the national camps and points of defense and reserve 
as indicated thereon. 

You will examine this list with a view of detennining the arrangements required 
for the transportation of the troops from the States embraced in the Department 
of the Lakes to points of destination when their movement is ordered. 

After familiarizing yourself with the necessary detail of this subject yoTi will 
consult the railroads interested in the transportation of these ti'oops and deter- 
mine, as far as practicable, such preliminaries as can be settled in advance of the 
movement. 

The exact number of troops to come with each organization is not known to 
this office, but will be communicated to you as soon as the information is obtained. 

is thought, however, that the necessary routes of travel can be definitely fixed, 
and such competition invited as will secure the most advantageous rates for each 
movement, so that when instructions are communicated to you to have the troops 
go forward there will be nothing to delay their prompt shipment. 

It is siiggested, to avoid crowding where trooi)s are to go out overnight, a double 
seat be given each man. 

The subject is therefore committed to your discretion, with the request that 
you will take all the preliminary steps deemed by you ad^^sable, and keep the 
Quartermaster-General informed of the more imjiortant features of the matter. 
Respectfully, 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General, United Stales Army. 

The above letter was sent to the following-named officers: 

Chief qiTartermaster, Department of the Gulf. 

Chief (luartermaster. Department of Dakota. 

Chief quartermaster, Dei^artment of the Missouri. 

Chief quartermaster, Department of the Colorado. 

Chief tiuartermaster. Deiiartment of the Columbia. 

Chief quartermaster. Department of California. , 

Depot quartermaster, Washington, D. C. 

Depot qiiartermaster. Philadelphia, Pa. 

Depot quartermaster. New York City. 

May 11, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General United States Army, 

General: I have respectfully to inform you that instructions have been given 
to the proper officers of the Quartermaster's Department to immediately make, ns 
far as possible, all preliminary preparations and arrangements for the transpor- 
tation of the vohmteer forces from the several points in the States where they are 
mustered and equipped for service to Washington. Chickamauga, New Orleans, 
Mobile, or Tampa, as the case may be, and to decide upon rates, and see that 
roads interested furnish the necessary equipment upon short notice. 

These instriTctions have been circiilated in advance so that no delay that can be 
avoided may occur in forwarding any of these troops to the field. 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTEPv-GENERAL. 441 

If the Adjntaut-Geueral will give this office immediate notice when advised 
that any troops are readj^ to be transported to the field, with the name of the 
proper officer to addi-ess relative to their transportation, the Quartermaster- 
General will at once notify such officer by wire the address of the proper officer 
of the Quartermaster's Department to whom to apply for transportation, and at 
the same time the quartermaster will be instructed by wire to supply the required 
transportation ^^'ith the least possible delay. 

If this proposed line of action is strictly carried out, it is thought that the vol- 
unteer troops will be placed in the field at the least possible cost to the United 
States and with the least practicable delay to the military service. 
Respectfully, 

M. I. LUDINGTON, ' 

Quarten'nutster-General, United States Army. 



The needs of the Department for transport vessels was thoroughly canvassed 
prior to April 1, 1898, and as the necessity for pro\dsion to be made for the trans- 
portation of troops and supplies by sea became apparent, measures were taken to 
ascertain the best method for pro^^ding for sxich transportation. 

On March 24. 1898, the Quartermaster-General addi-essed a letter to Lieut. Col. 
A. S. Kimball, depot quartermaster, New York City, directing him to ascertain 
and report to tliis office all available ships of the coast-line trade which could be 
secured by charter, showing their capacity, etc. In reply, under date of March 
29, 1898, Colonel Kimball reported, inclosing an abstract of the vessels which he 
had been able to ascertain could be secured from the various coast-line steamship 
companies in New York, and stating that a member of the Naval Board on Auxil- 
iary Cruisers had stated that the Navy had absolute option on all boats of the 
most prominent steamship companies. (Copy of correspondence referred to is 
herewith, marked Exhibit F.) 

When it became known that the Department required vessels for army trans- 
port service, tenders of vessels for charter and purchase were received from all 
the prominent steamship companies, and inspections of the vessels were made by 
officers of the Department and reported to this office with a view to the selection 
of those best suited for the ser-\nce. 

Question 10. What arrangements were made and how many troops were actually 
moved by railroad and by vessel between April 1 and August 31, 1898? 

Answer. For statement as to "arrangements made " for proper transportation, 
see answer to question 9 and copies of papers therewith. 

RAILROAD. 

There were transported between April 1 and August 31, according to informa- 
tion coUected by this office, 13,476 officers and 331,173 enlisted men, a total of 
334. G49 persons. 

VESSEL. 

The records of this office show that between April 1 and August 31, 1898, 44 
steamships were chartered and 14 steamships were purchased for service on the 
Atlantic and Gulf waters, and that 17 steamships were chartered and 2 steam- 
ships were purchased for seiwice on the Pacific Ocean, and all were fitted up for 
the transportation of troops, animals, and supplies. 

The total tonnage of the ships on the Atlantic coast was 100,987 tons, and they 
were fitted up for the accommodation of 40,732 officers and men. 

The total tonnage of the ships on the Pacific coast was 01 .287 tons, and they 
were fitted up to accommodate 18,120 officers and men. 



442 INVESTIGATION OF CONDIK'T OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Tlie records show that there Avere transported by the Atlantic fleet of trans- 
ports between April 1 and August 31. 1898: 

Men. 

To Cuba ---- 26,69.-) 

To Porto Rico : 17,087 

From Cuba to Montauk Point, N. Y., and of sick and convalescent to vari- 
ous coast cities -. - - - 19, 676 

From San Francisco to Manila 15, 741 

Total troops moved by vessel to August 31 , 1898 79, 199 

Qiiestion 11. Were full and complete arrangements made for supplying the 
troops operating in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philippines with suitable clothing 
and with camp and gaiTison equijjage and quartermaster stores for armies oper- 
ating in the field? 

Answer. In entering upon this siibject the question arises as to what may be 
considered -'suitable clothing"' for these countries. Opinions upon this matter 
differ. By some, light woolens are advocated; others advocate cotton; while in 
the Philippines, the most tropical of the three, opinions are equally divided. The 
question, even to this date, has not been fully settled. After issuing uniforms on 
hand at the outbreak of the war, all blouses were made without lining; and the 
material for trousers was reduced from 22 to 16 ounces per yard, as light as is 
consistent with good service. An abundant supply of light cotton underwear 
was furnished to all the Army and there was an abundant supply of it at Tampa 
prior to the sailing of General Shaffer's army. As showing the differeiice of 
opinion existing about clothing, I quote the following telegraphic correspondence: 

War Department, 
Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C. June 1:3, 1S9S. 
Colonel Lee, Baftlejield, Oct.: 

It is observed that you and General Brooke frequently mention canton-flannel 
drawers as wanted, and we send such. Is it to be understood that canton-flannel 
is preferred to summer drawers? 

Patten, Quartermaster. 



CHICKAMAUC4A Park, Ga.. June I4, JS9S. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, 1). C: 

Replying your dispatch 13th instant. There seems to be preference in propor- 
tion of about three to one for canton-flannel drawers on account of their being 
stronger, and after the nap is worn off they are almost as thin and cool as the 
summer drawers. 

Lee, Chief Quartermaster. 



Most of the trooi^s taking part in the Santiago camj^aign were regulars, and as 
they were fully and completely equipped when war was declared, they naturally 
went to the front with little consideration as to whether or not their uniforms 
were especially suited to service in the tropics; they had worn the same in their 
campaigns in Texas and Arizona. I think this applies to tlie officers as well as 
the men. 

More than 5.000 suits of canvas clothing were issued to the Fifth Army Coi-ps 
at Tampa before it sailed, and the Rough Riders were equipjied with canvas 
clothing before they went to Tampa. 



REPLY OF QUAKTEKMASTER-r^ENERAL. 443 

Under tlie coiiditious to which the troops were exposed in the trenches, it is not 
improbable that those clad in canvas suffered more from sickness than those who 
endured the hea\^er woolen clothing. A general officer said to me, " The blue 
flannel shirt was the best friend the soldier had in Cuba.'" 

The conditions as to the Philippines were quite different. The climate in Cuba 
and Porto Rico is mild as compared with the climate in the Philippines. The 
Department was informed as to this, and, furthermore, there was time allowed 
to fully e(iuip each expedition before it sailed from San Francisco. This was 
done by providing each man, in addition to the regular uniform, wdth an ample 
supply of the following articles: Nankeen underclothing, light cotton socks, white 
drill suits, and gingham shirts. 

All troops going to Porto Rico were furnished with canvas suits, and sufficient 
were sent to Cuba to equip all troops there. With reenforcements sent on the 
steamer St. Paul on July 6, there were shipped, to replenish equipment of Gen- 
eral Shaffer's army, the folloisdng articles: 5,000 blankets, 5.000 blouses, 25.000 
summer di-awers. 25.000 campaign hats, 10,000 ponchos, 5,000 dark-blue shirts, 
24,500 shoes, 40.000 stockings, 5,000 foot trousers, 25,000 cotton undershirts, 14.000 
canvas uniforms, 1,000 axes. 1,500 helves, 250 pickaxes, 300 helves, 1,000 long- 
handled shovels, 350 short-handled shovels, 500 spades. 

It has since been learned that owing to difficulties in landing at Sibcftiey, the 
stores were not unL^aded there, but they were unloaded at Santiago on July 23, 
and issue commenced on Monday, July 25. 

Full arrangements were also made for the supply of the troops in Cuba and Porto 
Rico with quartermaster's supplies of all kinds. A large quartermaster's depot 
at Tampa was supplied with stores to meet all wants, but the difficulty of pro- 
viding sufficient water transportation to Cuba, and of landing the animals, wag- 
ons, and other stores at Santiago, resulted in much of this material being left at 
Tampa and never being used by the army in Cuba. 

Upon learning that Shaffer's army was to be sent from Santiago to Montauk 
Point, and that they were instructed to leave all tentage behind, immediate steps 
were taken to place at Montauk Point new tentage for 30.000 men, including the 
sick, and also 20.000 uniforms, suits of underclothing, hats, blankets, shoes, etc. 
The records of this office show that the tentage and all the clothing was actually 
delivered at Montauk Point before a soldier had arrived there. That there was 
sufficient is demonstrated by the fact that I am now shipping from there thou- 
sands of each of these garments which were in excess of requirements. 

Question 12. How many and what vessels were purchased or chartered for 
transportation of troops? What was the capacity of each vessel? Was it properly 
arranged for the comfort of the troops so far as possible? Was there a full supply 
of water for use of troops arranged in every case, and was each and every vessel 
carefully inspected by an officer or agent of the Department and pronounced 
satisfactory before troops were permitted to embark? 

Answer. The number of vessels chartered and purchased which were fitted up 
for the transportation of trooj^s is as follows: 

For the Atlantic and Gulf iintcrn. 

Steani.sliips. 

Chartered 44 

Purchased - 14 

For the Pacific Ocean. 

Chartered - -- 17 

Piirchased 2 

Total - 77 



444 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



lu addition to the above there was purchased for use of the Medical Department 
the steamship John Englis. which was fitted up as a hospital ship and renamed 
Relief. 

The capacity of each of the vessels chartered and purchased for the transporta- 
tion of troops is as follows: 

Lint of stcamsliipR chartered and x>urcliased hij the Quartermafite7''ft Department 
for the transportation o/ troops from April 1 to close of hostilities trith Sixiiii, 
shoimng name of vessel, tonnage, carrying capacity of troops and animah. and 
date of- charter or,2)urchase. 

ATLANTIC FLEET. 



Name of steanisliii). 



Chartered. 

Olivette 

Alamo.. 

Alloglieiiy 

Berksliiro 

Comal 

D.n. Miller 

Gussie 

Whitney 

Florida' 

City of Washington 

Concho : 

Lpoiia 

Orizaba 

Ilio (Jrande 

San JMarcos 

Santiago 

Saratoga 

Seneca 

Segurani^a 

Vigilaiicia 

Yucatan 

Cherokee 

Iroquois 

Matteawan 

Aran.^as 

Breakwater 

Morgan 

Miami 

Stillwater 

Man teo 

Comanche 

Kniclccrbocker , 

Louisiana , 

Citv of Macon 

Gate City 

Clinton , 

Hudson 

Catania 

Lampasas 

Nueces 

Arkadia , 

La Grande Duchesse 

Wanderer 

Uto 

Purchased vessels. 

Panama, No. 1 

Port Victor, No. 2 

Rita, No. 3 

MoliAwk, No. 20 

Mobile, No. 21 

Mas.sacluisetts, No. 22 

Manit "ba, No. 23 -. . . 

Minnewaska. No. 24 

Mis.sissiiipi, No. 25 

Micliigan, No. 26 

Koiiuiauinn, No. 27 

Obdam, No. 30 

Berlin, No. 31 

Chester, No. 32 



Tonnage. 



Carrj-ing capacity. 



Officers . 



25 
35 
25 
25 
40 
25 
20 
20 
25 
30 
35 
45 
30 
50 
45 
40 
40 
27 
35 
45 
45 
40 
40 
35 
10 
25 
20 
27 
8 
10 
50 
45 
30 
25 
25 
20 
35 
40 
35 
25 
15 
100 
10 



Men. Animals. 



10 
25 
15 

80 
80 
80 
80 
100 
40 
40 
45 
50 
75 



fiOO 
700 
300 
250 
400 
450 
100 
250 
500 
740 
700 
700 
640 
500 
800 
COO 
800 
600 
600 
800 

1,000 
950 
700 
720 
200 
500 
250 
900 
60 
250 
500 
900 
325 
600 
600 
200 
600 
800 
200 
800 
250 

1,400 
100 
COO 



400 

400 

700 

1,000 

1,000 

1,000 

1,000 

1,200 

800 

800 

1.100 

1,300 

2,000 

1,500 



40 

10 

200 

200 

400 

300 

300 

250 

175 

250 

10 

10 

125 

10 

350 

250 

250 

250 

500 



250 



368 

200 



230 



168 

100 

50 



300 



400 
300 
300 
170 
300 



Date of char- 
ter. 



1.000 

1,000 

1,000 

1, 000 

1,000 

800 

800 

50 

100 



Apr. 3, 
Apr. 29, 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 
Apr. 30, 

Do. 
May 2, 
May 10, 

"Do. 
May 10, 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 
May 11, 

Do. 

Do. 
May 12, 

Do. 

Do. 
May 13, 
MaV 16, 
May 28, 
June 3, 

Do. 

Do. 
Juno 6, 

Do. 
Juno 8, 
Juno 9, 
June 13, 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 
July 5, 

July 20, 



1808 
1898 



1898 
1808 



1898 



1898 



1898 
1898 
1898 
1898 



1898 

1898 
1898 
1898 



1898 
1898 



30 



June 21, 1898 
July 8, 1898 
July 9,1898 
Jufy 14,1898 

Do. 

Do. 
July 20,1898 
July 26, 1898 
July 14. 1898 

Do. 
July 12,1898 
June 27, 1898 
July 13,1898 
July 27,1898 



REPLY OF C^lJAin'EKJIASTEK-GENElJAL. 

Lint of steamships chartered and purchased, etc. — Continued. 
PACIFIC FLEET. 



445 



Name of steamship. 



Chartered. 

City of Sidney 

Australia 

China 

Colon 

Ztalandia 

Ohio 

Slorgau City 

Indiana 

Senator 

City of Para 

A'alencia 

Nevvi)ort 

City of Puebla 

Pom 

City of Rio do Janeiro 

Pennsylvania 

St. Paul 

Purchased 

Soandia 

Arizona 



Tonnage. 



000 
755 
000 
700 
480 
488 
300 
158 
400 
532 
198 
000 
623 
500 
548 
16C 
440 



4,253 
5, 000 



Officers 



Carrying capacity 
Men 



673 
732 

1,200 
572 
666 
916 
077 
950 
957 
979 
606 
520 
844 
904 
856 

1,280 
814 



1,500 
1,700 



Animals. 



Date of char- 
ter. 



May 10, 

Do. 
May 27, 

Do. 

Do. 

Do. 
JuTie 7, 
Junl^ 8, 

Do. 
Juno 11, 
Jnno 19, 
June 20, 
June 23, 
June 25, 
July 7, 

Do. 
July I'J, 



1898 
1898 



1898 
1898 

1898 
1898 
1898 
1898 
1898 
1898 

1898 



July 5, 1898 
July 16,1898 



The capacity of the chartered ships of the Pacific fleet, as shown in the fore- 
going statement, is taken from the reports made to this oftice of the actual num- 
ber of officers and men which were transported on them. 

Of the Atlantic fleet the statement shows the number of officers and men the 
chartered ships were reported to be fitted up to carry. It was, howev(,'r, found 
upon loading the ships that the health and comfort of the men would not permit 
the full number to be put on board; hence in the transportation of General 
Shaffer's army from Port Tampa to Cuba, on the fleet of transport vessels which had 
been fitted up to carry 20,000 or more troops only about 16,000 were put on board 
the vessels. This was necessary because the voyage was for six days instead of 
forty-eight hours, for which the ships had been fitted. 

Congress being averse to granting American registry to foreign ship.><, the only 
vessels available for charter for transportation of troops were the merchant ves- 
sels engaged in the coast-line trade on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. These were 
mostly small ships constructed for carrying freight and not designed for the 
transportation of large bodies of men. 

The first call upon the Department for transport ships was for the transporta- 
tion of 5,000 men. This was subsequently changed, and call was made for a fleet 
of vessels for the transportation of an army of about 25,000 to be landed at Mariel, 
or at some point near Havana. 

As soon as the movements were determined upon owners of vessels were called 
upon to.supply as many ships as they could spare without crippling too .severely 
their commercial interests. In many instances it was a hardship for these com- 
panies to spare the vessels that the Department required. Owing to the troops 
being ready for embarkation and the demand upon the Department for transpor- 
tation being urgent, these vessels had to be hurriedly chartered and fitted up. 

The Department did not feel warranted to demand these vessels from the steam- 
ship companies before they were absolutely needed, or justified in chartering them 
and maintaining them at a large expense in advance of their need. 

As fast as chartered, the vessels were fitted up under the supervision of experi 
enced officers of the Department and hired experts, working day and night, and 
every arrangement for the health and comfort of the men was considered and 
provided for so far as possible in the short time allowed for the work. In some 



I 



44G INVEtSTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR Willi SPAIN. 



cases the materials were loaded on the vessels and mechanics placed on board, who 
did the v/ork of fitting up while the vessel was en route to Port Tampa, the point 
at which the troops were concentrated for the invasion of Cuba. In these ships 
bunks were built for sleeping accommodations for the enlisted men, and wind 
scoops and wind sails provided for furnishing air through the hatches and ports. 

The ships of the Atlantic fleet being small, to accommodate the number of 
troops to be transported it was necessary to build bunks three tiers high. Addi- 
tional water-closets and washing facilities were also provided u^jon the vessels. 
No arrangements were made for cooking except to supply the men with hot coffee, 
it being understood that the troops would carry travel rations. 

After the embarkation of the troops of General Shaffer's army information 
was received in this office that the bunks were not satisfactory and that the ven- 
tilation of the vessels was insuflicient for the health and comfort of the men. AI 
vessels were subsequently ])rovided with hammocks, frames being fitted in them 
with hooks for swinging the hammocks, so that they could be taken down during 
the day and space given to the men to move about. Electric plants for lighting 
and running ventilating fans were procured, biit for want of time some of the 
lilants were not installed upon the vessels. 

The vessels chartered for the transportation of the army to Manila were of a 
superior class to the fleet on the Atlantic. They were vessels engaged in trade 
with the far East and South America. As the movement to Manila involved a 
voyage of over 7,000 miles, great care was taken in the fitting up of the ships, to 
provide the troops with comfort, cleanliness, protection to health, and the proper 
means for cooking during the long voyage. Increased galley facilities, lavatories, 
and water-closets were constructed in all these vessels. But the Atlantic coast 
vessels were supposed to have troops upon them for only forty-eight hours at most, 
and there was not time to supply them with more than comfortable sleeping- 
accommodations under cover, leaving the decks free for them to move about dur- 
ing the day. 

The ships chartered and fitted up for the transport service were found to be 
unsuitable for carrying animals, and Congress being unwilling to give American 
registry to foi'eign ships, the only ones suitable for sach service, the Government 
was compelled to purchase a number of vessels, designated as cattle ships, of 
large carrying capacity, with bilge keels, to prevent rolling. Most of the ships 
purchased were of this character. These were temporarily fitted up to meet the 
immediate needs of the service, but it is the intention of the Department to have 
each one of them transformed from freight carriers to model troop ships, some 
being fitted for troops only, others for trooijs and animals, and others for freight 
and refrigerator ships. Two of these vessels are now being thus refitted, and 
others will follow as they can be spared from the service for that purpose. 

Exhibit G, herewith, is sample copies of instructions given by this office in ref- 
erence to the fitting up of transport ships, the correspondence on which subject is 
very voluminous. Also, accompanying is a report of the depot quartermaster at 
New York City, where a great number of these vessels were fitted itp, which gives 
information as to the nature of the instructions given on this subject, and is 
accompanied by photograiihs illustrating the manner in which ships were fitted 
up lor transportation ;/f the troops. 

The water capacity of every vessel was largely increased by the supply of addi- 
tional tanks, casks, and barrels. Attention is invited to the accompanying cor- 
respondence on the subject of procuring additional tanks for use on the vessels, 
marked " Exhibit H." Some of the vessels were also provided with condensing 
apparatus, and in addition four vessels were employed as water-boats, with a 
capacity of 480 000 gallons. Two of the water-boats accompanied General Shaffer's 
fleet to Cuba 



REPLY OF QUAKTEKMASTEK-GENEKAL. 447 

Before any vessel was chartered it was carefully and thoroughly inspected by an 
ofScer of the Department to ascertain its seaworthiness, its capacity, and its gen- 
eral fitness for the transportation of troops. When available, the services of an 
officer of the Navy was called upon to assist in this inspection. Upon this pre- 
liminary inspection, report of which was submitted to this office, if favorable, the 
vessel was chartered. The work of fitting it up and inspecting was then done 
under the supervision of an experienced officer of the Department, and when com- 
pleted was turned over to the commanding officer of the troops which were to be 
transported on the ship, whose duty it was to designate the troops to be embarked, 
and to cause an insiiection to be made by his surgeon and staff officer to satisfy 
himself as to the suitability of the vessel for the service required. 

Question 13. What arrangements were made for the disembarkation of troops 
when there was a possibility of it being done outside of a harbor? 

Answer. In order to facilitate the lauding of troops on the Cuban coast, the pon- 
toon trains from Willets Point and West Point were assembled and shipped on the 
transport Alamo. They were intended to be used in coves or still water, running 
out from shore so that light-draft boats could lay alongside and disembark troops. 
Efforts were made to secure steam lighters to accompany the expedition. The 
officers at various ports on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts were asked to inquire and 
report on the number and class of svich lighters as they could secure. Each of the 
officers replied that there were no light-draft steam vessels suitable for the pur- 
pose obtainable in the ports along the Atlantic coast. The steam lighters were 
all deep-draft vessels. 

In Galveston three steam lighters were found — the Bessie, Laura, and Cnmber- 
land — and these were chartered and sent to Port Tampa to accompany the expe- 
dition, and also one ocean tug from Moljile. 

Three ordinary deck barges were also under construction at Port Tampa, Fla., 
by General Ludlow: two of these were finished when the expedition sailed and 
were taken along, but one of them was lost on the way over and was afterwards 
picked up and returned to Key West. 

The steam lighter Bessie broke down before she arrived at Port Tampa, and put 
in at Pensacola for repairs, which repairs were not completed before the expedi- 
tion left. 

The captain of the ocean tug Caj^tain Sam did not carry out his instructions to 
catch up with the fleet at point designated, and was left behind and reported at 
Key West. Several attempts were made to have him continue his voyage, but in 
each case he reported back, stating that he was not able to keep up with the con- 
voy and was unable to go alone with his tug to Santiago. 

After arrival on the south coast of Cuba, General Shaf ter telegraphed that two 
or three steam lighters were necessary, and this office took immediate measures to 
supply his need for lighterage. Two decked barges were dispatched in tow of 
U. S. tug Fern from Key West, and two were sent from New Orleans in tow of 
the ocean tug Undertvriter, and three from Mobile in tow of the ocean tug Aiin- 
rod. The Fern arrived in Cuba with her barges, both of which were wrecked the 
day after arrival, and all the barges from New Orleans and Mobile were lost at 
sea, and only the tug from New Orleans reached Santiago. 

(Coi:)ies of some of the correspondence had by this office on the subject of pro- 
curing light-draft vessels for lauding troops and supplies is herewith, marked 
Exhibit" L") 

It is proper to remark that no definite request for the supply of means for dis- 
embarking troops was received in this office until after the arrival of General 
Shaffer's army in Cuba; and the efforts madc^ by this office to secure light-draft 
vessels, as shown by the correspondence, was in anticipation of any call that might 
be made upon the Department. 



448 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

The unsuccessful efforts to get decked baryes to Santiago led the Department to 
enter into a contract with D. Van Aken & Co., of New York City, to fit out an 
expedition to proceed to Santiago with a large force of mechanics of various kinds 
and laborers, with machinery and materials, such as pile drivers, dock building 
and i-ailroad-constructing implements, iron, and lumber, for building docks, light- 
ers, and for repairing railroads and engines. They were also provided with sev- 
eral tugs and lighters. The expedition has been usefully employed in Porto Rico. 
Upon the request of Lieut. Col. W. M. Black, Corps of Engineers, upon the 
staff of the Major-General Commanding the Army, efforts were made to secure 
light-draft vessels for service with the army in Cuba and Porto Rico, and many 
vessels were inspected on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. 

The steamer Tarpon was chartered, which, with the chartered lighter Be.sstc 
and snag boat Smvanee, owned by the Engineer Department, were dispatched to 
Cuba for use as lighters. 

C^uestion 14. When so-called permanent camps were located for a large force, 
what arrangements were made for a full and complete supply of potable water for 
use of troops? Were tent floors furnished in any cases other than for hospitals? 
If so, where and when? • 

Answer. At Camp Alger, Va., forty driven wells were provided, from which a 
good supply of water was obtained. Seven hundred water barrels and 214 army 
filters were also provided. 

At Camp Shipp, Anniston, x\la., water was obtained from city mains; itispiijed 
from mountain springs. 

At Camp George H. Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga., springs in the park, sup- 
plemented by a number of fine wells, was first resorted to, but proved deficient. 
A pumping plant, with machinery, standpipe, pump house, pipe, etc., was pro- 
vided and the water pumped into tanks from Chickamauga River. Drinking 
water was also obtained from Crawford, Blue, and Ellis springs. One thousand 
one hundred and fifty water barrels, 3,000 boilers for boiling water, and 1,200 
army filters were provided. 

At camp at Fernandina, Fla., mains and branches were laid and connected 
with the water supply of the town, wliich is from an 8-inch artesian well, 720 
feet deep, with a flow of about one and one-fourth million gallons per day. One 
hundred army filters were also supplied. 

At Camp Wheeler, Huntsville, Ala., water was obtained from the city supply 
by means of i:)ipes laid to the camp. 

At Camj) Cuba Libre, Jacksonville, Fla., water is provided by connection with 
the city water system and distrilnited to the camps by means of mains and branches. 
The Jacksonville source of supply is three 6-incli artesian wells, with a natural 
flow of three and one-half million gallons per day. One hundred and fifty army 
filters were also provided this camp. 

At Camp Hamilton, Lexington, Ky., water was provided from the city by haul- 
ing from the city to the camp, and later by means of pipe connections for dis- 
tributing water from the city mains. 

At the camp at Miami, Fla. , hydrants and wells were provided throughout the 
camp, and 85 filters furnished. 

At the camp at Mobile, Ala., water was supplied by pipe connections with the 
city mains. 

At Camp Meade, Middletown, Pa., three wells were sunk, two with deep pumps 
and one with force imnii), with tanks and necessary piping, water barrels and 
buckets; 482 army filters were also furnished. 

At Camp Wikott', Montauk Point, N. Y., a number of wells were sunk, three 
pumping stations put in, and two large tanks erected, with a capacity of 60,000 
gallons each; water was distributed by about 8 miles of pipe laid for that pur- 



REPLY OF QUARTEKMASTEU-GENEKAL. 449 

pose. A filter plant was provided and Vio army filters siipplied. A Navy Depart- 
ment steamer with distilled water plant, having a daily capacity of G0,000 gallons, 
was also provided, but was not used. The Club House water plant was also taken 
possession of in connection with the water supply at this camp. 

At the camp at New Or'eans, La., water was supplied by the Orleans City 
Railroad Company, including filters, free. 

At the camp at Tampa, Fla. . there were three sources of water supply. A well, 
pump, tank, and piping were provided for the camp of siege artillery and that at 
Palmetto Beach. All other camps at Tampa were supplied from the city water 
works, piped by the Government to the various camps. The camps at Port Tampa 
and Port Tampa City were provided with water by the Plant System from their 
pump and tank at Ybor City, the Government paying for the hauling. The sup- 
ply of water at all these camps was ample and of good, pure ciuality. 

Distilling plants were provided at Key West Barracks. Fla.; Fort St. Philip, 
La.: and the Philippine Islands, for the use of troops. 

Tent floors were furnished (other than for hospital tents) from April 1 to Sep- 
tember 30, 1898, inclusive, at the following places: 

Fort Adams, R. I.; Camp Alger, Va.; Anniston, Ala.: Augusta. Ga.; Fort Baker, 
Cal. : Camp Black, N. Y. ; Chickamauga'Park, Ga. ; Fort Caswell and Fort Macon, 
N. C: Fort Clinch, Fla.; Clarks Point, Mass.; Columbus Barracks, Ohio; Dutch 
Island, R. I.; Fort Point, Cal.; Fort Point, Te.x.; Fort Grant, Ariz.: Fort Gris- 
wold, Conn.; Hilton Head, S. C; Fort Hamilton, N. Y.; Jackson Barracks, La.; 
Jefferson Barracks, Mo.; Key West, Fla.; Fort Knox. Me.; Long Island Head, 
, Mass.; Fort McHenry, Md.; Miami, Fla.; Fort Mott, N. J.: Camp INIeade, Pa.; 
Fort Morgan, Ala ; Fort Monroe, Va.; Fort Pickens, Fla.; Fort Preble, Me.; 
• Plum Island, N. Y.; Fort Popham, Me.; Fort Snelling, Minn.: Fort Sheridan. 111.; 
Sheridan Point, Va.: Sullivans Island, S. C; Fort Slocum, N. Y.; San Diego Bar- 
racks, Cal.; Fort St. Philip, La.; Fort Schuyler, N. Y.; Santiago de Cuba; Tybee 
Island, Ga.; Fort Trumbull, Conn.: Fort Wadsworth, N. Y.; Washington Bar- 
racks. D. C; Fort Washington, Md.; Willets Point, N. Y.: Winthrop, Mass.; 
Camp Wikoff. 

Tent floors were also ordered for troops at Camp Wikoff, N. Y., and for all 
troops at Huntsville, but the actual cost of same is not yet on record in this office. 
Question 15. When troops were moved by rail for long distances, were there any 
arrangements made for supply of water? Were there any unnecessary delays in 
the movements of troops from the camps established on the return of the army 
from Cuba? 

Answer. The form of proposal reciuested of railroad companies in bidding for 
movement of troops requires that the company furnishing the e(iuipment shall 
see that "all passenger cars will be kept well supplied with ice and water, and 
that the trains will l)e run with the greatest speed consistent with safety.'" This 
is insisted on in movements of troops. (See sample copy of form of proposal, 
marked Exhibit J. ) 

No "unnecessary delays " have come to the attention of this office in returning 
to their homes soldiers upon arrival irom Cuba. 

A delay of five and one-half hours in movement of First Illinois irom Montauk 
was investigated and found to be due to impossibility of the Lehigh Valley Rail- 
road to get the neces.sary cars at Montauk at the time agreed upon. 

A delay of twelve hours occurred in the movement of the Eighth Ohio from 
Montauk, which, upon investigation, was found to be due to refusal of the colonel 
commanding to permit his regiment to be shipped as a whole to Columbus, as 
ordered by War Department, and orders to ship to company headquarters in 
various cities and towns where these troops were mustered had to be awaited. 
In this case no fault attached to the Quartermaster's Department. A quarter- 

783.3— V«»L. 1 29 



450 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

master's agent was piit aboard the train in order to save time, and arranged the 
necessary details of shipment to the several destinations of the companies while 
the train was under way. 

The District of Columbia regiment was delayed for several hours awaiting 
arrival of cars, but the regiment was fully notified in advance of breaking camp, 
so that no serious inconvenience resulted, and the regiment left Montaukfor Wash- 
ington the same day, but in the afternoon instead of in the naorning, as at first 
expected. 

These delays have been made the subject of a special investigation by the Quar- 
termaster-General, as will be seen by the following correspondence: 

Washington, D. C, September 10, 1S98. 
Colonel Moore (care Major Sawyer), Montauk: 

Before leaving Montauk, please investigate thoroughly so as to report where 
responsibility rests for the delays and discomforts which the newspapers charge in 
bitter criticism as occurring in the movement of the Eighth Ohio, First Illinois, 
and District of Columbia Volunteers from Montauk to their destination. These 
occurrences are most unfortunate under the state of the public mind at present, 
and such concert of action must be had between the New York and Montauk office 
and the railroad company as will avoid any repetition in the future. Confer with 
Major Sawyer, 

LuDlNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



War Department, 
Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washingtoih September 2S, ISDS. 
The Quartermaster-General of the Army. 

General: In accordance with telegraphic instructions of the 10th instant, I 
have the honor to submit herewith a report of Capt. J. N. Patton, assistant 
quartermaster. United States Volunteers, Montauk Point, L. I., who has direct 
charge' of rail transportation at that place. This officer explains the delays in the 
transportation of the First Illinois and District of Columbia Volunteers. 

The delay in the movement of the Eighth Ohio, Colonel Kimball informed me, 
was due to the fact that he was ordered to provide transportation to Columbus, 
Ohio. The colonel objected to his entire command going to that place, declaring 
that the President, when he visited the camp, said he would have an order issued 
distributing the various companies to towns and cities where they were enlisted 
or entered the service. The orders were finally received by Colonel Kimball 
changing destination hs requested by the regimental commander. 

This shows that there has been no delay whatever in this case, for the reason 
that the cars were ready, and the destination of the regiment could have readily 
been changed before it reached New York City. It was, therefore, unquestion- 
ably the fault of the colonel of the regiment that any delay occurred. 
Very respectfully, 

James M. Moore, 
Assistant Quartermaster-General, United States Army. 



Montauk Point. Long Island, 5'(3pfcm?)er ii, ISOS. 
Col. Jas. M. Moore. 

Assistant Quartermaster-General, U. S. A., Montauk Point, Long Island. 

Sir: In reply to your inquiries regarding shipment and delays in moving the 

Eighth Ohio. First Illinois, and First District of Columbia Volunteers, I have the 

honor to state as follows: The arrangement for the shipment of the Eighth Ohio 

was made by Captain Knight, and by him I was directed to issue transportation 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTEK-dEXERAL. 451 

for 971 men and 38 officers, September 6, 1898, to New York City. Whatever cor- 
respondence there was on the snbject was between Captain Knight, chief (quar- 
termaster, and Colonel Kimball. Statement upon this subject, made in writing 
to me by Captain Knight's chief clerk, as follows (Captain Knight having gone to 
Santiago) : 

MoNTAUK Point, Long Island, N. Y., 

September 7/. ISHS. 
On or about September 5, 1898, a communication was received from the head- 
quarters on subject of movement of Eighth Ohio, Attached to this communica- 
tion was a list of the number of officers and men in each company and a list of their 
home stations; also a notation designating the railroads by which the various 
companies desired to travel. Telegram was sent at once to the depot quarter- 
master. New York, recpiesting that arrangements be made accordingly. No 
reply was received to this telegram. Next morning a train was provided by the 
Long Island Railroad for transportation to New York City, bvit as it appeared 
transportation was provided from New York City to Columbus, Ohio, for tlie 
entire command, the commanding officer of the regiment declined to embark his 
regiment unless the destination of the various companies was changed to their 
home station. Telegram to this effect was sent the depot quartermaster. New 
York, about 10 that morning, to which no reply was received that I am aware of. 
Copies of both telegrams referred to are on record in office of chief (luarteriuaster 

here. 

W. H. Campbell. 

The Third Texas moved outr according to programme and without incident, 
except that they held the train for nearly an hour waiting for part of their bag- 
gage, which they finally left behind with six of their men. 

The First District of Columbia was scheduled to go at 2 p. m. Thursday. The 
railroad company was notified the daj' previous in writing, but did not have cars 
ready for the regiment to go aboard till 7.80 p. m, of that date (September 8), a 
delay of five and a half hours, caused by the Long Island Railro.id Company. 
The colonel was, however, notified by the adjutant-general of division head- 
quarters that the train would not be ready until 7 o'clock p. m. Colonel Moore 
saw the regiment embark, and no complaint of any kind was made by its colonel. 

The First Illinois made request to leave here AVednesday, the 7th instant, and I 
so wired the depot quartermaster, New York City; the regiment commenced 
preparations to move. At 10 o'clock a. in. Wednesday I received telegram from 
Colonel Kimball, saying Lehigh Valley Railroad could not furnish cars to move 
First Illinois till noon Thursday, September 8. and to hold shipment till Thursday 
morning (copy attached). The quartermaster of the First Illinois was in my 
office at the time this telegram was received. I showed it to him and told him his 
regiment would have to stay where it was till next morning. He replied that he 
did not think it would do so, as they were ready to go and did not propose to be 
stopped by the railroad company. I advised him to see his colonel and explain 
the situation to him, which he did. Later in the day I saw him again in Major 
Sawyer's office, when they still insisted they were going to move and the Lehigh 
Valley Railroad must get ready to receive them. Major Sawyer then notified him 
that the Lehigh Valley Railroad could not be ready till the time named in Colonel 
Kimball's message, and if they persisted in going they would have to incur the 
discomfort of the necessary delay in New York; that this department would not 
be responsible for the movement till Thursday morning, as arranged. The regi- 
ment finally left Wednesday evening. All this marching and countermarching 
spoken of in the newspapers is untrue, as the regiment did not come to depot here 
till near the time of leaving in the evening. 

Very respectfully, vour obedient servant, 

J. N. Patton, 

Captain and Aaxis^tant (f)na)-tennasfer, United States Volunteers. 



452 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

[Copy of telegram.] 

New York, Sepiemher 6, 1898. 
Quartermaster, Camp IVikoff, Montmtk Point, L. I: 

Referring to previous correspondence concerning movement First Illinois, Lehigh 
Valley Railroad, which has contract, states absolutely impossible to get cars ready 
for movement to-morrow, but can have full equipment by Thursday. Please defer 
movement accordingly. Have troops leave Thursday morning ; arrive Long Island 
City about midday. Advise by wire in advance just when ti'oops will arrive. 

Kimball. 
7.41 p. M. 

Question 10. What, if any. complaints in writing have been received by the 
Quartermaster-General in reference to the prompt compliance with proper requisi- 
tions or complaints of any character in reference to the operations of the dei)art- 
ment in connection with the movement of troops, the issuing of proper and neces- 
sary supplies, or the performance of any duty appertaining to the Quartermaster's 
Department':' 

Answer. Numerous complaints have reached this office in connection with water 
and rail transportation and the furnishing of the various articles of quarter- 
master's supplies. The greater part of these complaints were made in the early 
pirt of the war, and related to the noureceipt by volunteer troops just coming into 
t':e service of supply of clothing and tentage. In some cases there was foundation, 
resulting from the immense volume of work of packing and shipping to be per- 
formed at depots. In many others the complaints were unreasonable, as no con- 
sideration was given of the time necessary to transport the supplies to them. 

The most important complaints have been carefully inc^uired into, and many 
of such, after investigation, were found to be groundless, and in others the Quar- 
termaster's Department was found to be in nowise responsible. In cases where 
just complaint against this Department was found to exist, instructions were 
given to have the same remedied and steps taken to prevent its recurrence. 

A number of these complaints is submitted with this report, and the corre- 
spondence relating thereto will be found in Exhibit K. 

Question 17. What funds were at the command of the Department April 1, 1898, 
and what additional funds were available by August 31, 1898, under general or 
special legislation? 

Answer. There was at the command of the Department April 1, 
1898, available for war expenditures the sum of $2,657,456.87 

Allotments to Quartermaster's Department from appropriation 
'•National defense ■■_ ._ 1,500,000.00 

There was appropriated by the act of March 15. 1898, $6,555,000; 
by deficiency act of May 4, 1898, §19, 550, 000: by deficiency act 
of July 7, 1898, §103,200,000: and by act of July 8. 1898, ,$200,000; 
making total appropriated _...._ 139, 505. 000. 00 



Total available by August 31, 1898 133.662,456.87 

For details of appropriations to which the funds pertain, etc.. see accompany- 
ing statements marked '-Exhibit L," which shows that the sum of $2,374,464.97 
was at the command of the Department on Aiiril 1, 1898, which is not available 
for war expenditures. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

(^uartermaster-Oeneral, United States Arviy. 



RfcPLY OF QUAin'KRMAS'l'KK-GENERAL. 



4:1 



'j6 



Exhibit A. 

Statement of pHndpal articles of clothing and equipage and materials on }i and 
April 1, ISOS; also quantities due on contract. 



Articles. 



Blankets ■ 

Blouses 

Caps, forage 

Canvas fatigue c(^ats 

Canvas fatigue trousers . 
Drawers, cantou flannel. 

Gauntlets — 

Gloves, Berlin 

Hats, campaign 

Helmets, cork 

Leggings 

Overalls ■ 

Overcoats 

Ponchos 

Shirts, D. B. flannel 

Shoes: 

Barrack — 

Leather 

Stable frocks 

Stockings: 

Cotton 

Wool 

Su.spenders 

Trousers: 

Foot 

Mounted 

Undershirts: 

Cotton 

Wool- 

Axes - - - 

Ax helves 

Bedsacks 

Books, all kinds . 

Bugles, light artillery — 

Colors and standards 

Drums 

Fifes - 

Flags: 

Garrison - 

Post 

Storm and recruiting 

Guidons --. 

Hand litters. 

Hatchets 

Hatchet helves 

Kettles, camp 

Mess pans.- 

Mosquito bars 

Misquito head nets 

Pickaxes 

Pickax helves 

Shovels: 

Long-handled 

Short-handled 



Philadelphia. 



On 

hand 

Mar.;n. 

1.S9S. 



Due on 
con- 
tract, 
or to be 
manu- 
fac- 
tured. 



317 

229 
970 

21(i| 
ISli 
lUi 
712! 
(584 

762! 
HHol 
OKI] 



5,902 



2.5,611 
2,1+4 
l.»42 

20, 0(KI 
6.000 
KKl.OOO 
8.000 
;3,229 
S. 173 
4,:j(X) 

12, .504 
7.500 

11,999 



22.262 
13,017 24,112 
5,232 1.700 



209,214 

107, 136 

9,970 



10,401 
6,652 

102, 78' 

57,370 

1,848 

1.717 

100 

3.2a5 

5:3 

160 

33 

892 

58 
264 
471 
13 
7 
673 
1,000', 
907. 
1,6.54 
5, .563. 
1.807. 
242 
533. 

1.598'. 
2,104,. 



Jeflfersouville. 



On 

hand 

Mar.31, 

1898. 



10,773 
7,213 

39,400 



50 



To be 
manu- 
fac- 
tured. 



17,393 5,500 



8,:M6 
7,649 
9,438 30, (HK) 



4.40;i 
3,420 



8,471 



9.654 



2a5 

13,819 



10,000 



St. 
Louis. 

On 
hand 



San Francisco. 



On 
hand 



Mar.31,lMar.31. 
1898. 1898. 



6,061 
1,590 

11,636 
7.204 
7,998 

25, 670 
2,344 

76, .573 
7:290 
6,535 

10. .560 
6.020 
1,879 

2, .508 
11,367 

16,076 
20,803 
3,1.33 

90,492 
17,638 
2,796 

8,892 
6,865 

36,982 

33.413 

3.091 

3, .548 
643 
945 



38 

1.016 

4,478 

38' 

4.944 

1,.562 

63 

219 

918 

915 
1,109 



190 
2,769 
1,456 
1,64' 

2,083 

528 

4,903 

1,464 

56 



4, 7.59 

1.606 

163 

902 

2,027 

4,194 

a57 

13,817 
1,999 
5,313 

9.58 
3,099 

l.()37 
3,0.59 
395 
396 
474 
235 
7 

23 
13 
113 

3 
3 



Due on 

con- 
tract, 
oj" to be 
manu- 1898 

far- 
tured. 



Total 



hand 
Mar.31. 



10 



1.097 

i.3n 

316 
545 
171 



1.57 
1.066 



163 



3,3.52 



2, .500 



4,383 
452 



Total 
due on 
con- 
tract, 
or to be 
manu- 
fac- 
tured. 



&3,378 
23,402 
37.375 
19.316 
19,480 
44. 307 

9,484 
91,160 
19, 796 

8,897 
.55,06:3 
19,084 

7.525 

4,811 
24,376 

40.3a5 
38,014 
18,376 

.305, .523 

126. 773 

17,979 

20,351 
15,616 

131.406 

8:3,841, 

4.:3;34 

4,561 
l,216l 
4,415, 

60 
219 

105 
1.005 



903 
500 
611 
144 
343 
.353 
000 
(KJO 
(100 
229 
173 
300 
(JOO 
.504 
.613 



34.113 
1.700 



40,000 



15,056 
7.665 



39,400 



497 



.50 



10 



(h5 
.305 
638 
23 
35 
6,435 
6,849 

1.745| 

19,963! 

7.39(i 

l,870i 

1,6061 

2,5171 



2,513 
3,376l. 



454 



INVEj^TIGATION op conduct of war with SPAIN. 



statement of principal articles of clothing, etc. — Continued. 







Philadelphia. 


Jeffersonville. 


St. 
Loiiis. 

On 

hand 

Mar.31, 

1898. 


San Francisco. 


Total 

on 

hand 

Mar.31, 

1898. 


Total 


Articles. 


On 

hand 

Mar.31, 

1898. 


Due on 
con- 
tract, 
or to be 
manu- 
fac- 
tured. 


On 

hand 

Mar.31, 

1898. 


To be 
manu- 
fac- 
tured. 


On 

hand 

Mar.31, 

1898. 


Due on 
con- 
tract, 
or to be 
manii- 

fac- 
tured. 


due on 
con- 
tract, 
ort<>l>e 
manu- 
fac- 
tured. 


Spades 


876 
179 

737 
340 
104 
(1, 757 
197 
53 

140, 763 
45,144 
93,986 

103,380 
80,740 
57,9.53 
36,300 
53,337 

7,636 
13;3,463 
86,057 


ioo 

763 
378 
148 
6, .519 
411 

a5,500 
40,000 


733 

1 




7,057 
313 

391 

85 

76 

1,861 

346 

8 

975 

533 

4,264 


f>51 
29 

633 




9,307 
522 

1,761 
325 

218 

9,86;5 

487 

71 

210,562 
49,405 
187,339 

103,380 
80,740 
57,953 
31,188 
55, 137 

7,636 
139,963 
113, 746 




Trumpets 


ioo 


Te'its: 

Common . . . 




763 


(Jonical wall . . 






278 


Hospital 


dalves 






38 




148 


Shelter . . 






1,245' 


6, 519 


Wall 






44 




411 


Various kinds 


yards.. 

..do 

.do.... 

..do.... 
..do.. . 
..do.... 
..do.... 
..do.... 

..do.... 
..do.... 
..do.... 


11 

64,477 
2,348 
75,956 






Blouse: 

Flannel . 

Lining flannel 

Canton flannel 
Uufk: 

J3-ounce 


4,347 

1,480 

13,023 




35, .5(10 


lO-ounce 












40,(HIO 


8-ounce 














Bleached 










4,988 
280 






Brown... 




3,520 








Kersev: 

D.B 








S. B 


33,874 






368 
537 


6,133 

2,353 


:..:::: 


32, 874 


Shirting flannel. .. 


34,800 







Exhibit B. 

Article:^ of clothing and equipage vuuiufactured at depots of QjiartevmaPiter^s 
Department from April SO, 1S9S, to August 15, 189S. 





Depots. 




Articles. 


Phila- 
delphia. 


Jeffer- San 
sonville. Fi^^n- 


St. 
Louis. 


Wash- 
ington. 


Total. 


Blouses, made and unmade 


43,885 
6,030 
5,924 

61,4;37 
4,852 

18,243 

62, 288 

62, 484 
9,9.52 

1, 1.52 

24 

436 

197, .503 

■ 668 


64, 777 
4,340 
3,338 

39,738 


8,881 

7 

11 

3,537 

295 






116,.54;3 


Canvas fatigue coats 






10 267 


Canvas fatigue trousers pairs. . 






9, 3ih5 


Drawers, canton flannel ..do 






103, 693 


Overalls 






5, 147 


Overcoats 




451 


IS 694 


Shirts, dark blue flannel 


9,440 


1,849 

11,434 
663 






73, .577 


Trousers, kersey: 


10,651 

7,373 




84, ,559 

17,888 

4,933 
34 


Mounted do 




Tents: 

Common 




3,771 


Conical wall. 








Hospital 










426 


Shelter halves 










197, 503 


Wall 










668 




; 







REPLY OF QUAKTERMASTER-GENERAL. 



455 



Exhibit C. 

Statement shoiving principal articles of clothing and equipage purchased or con- 
tracted for from May 1, 1898, to August 15, 1S9S. 



Articles. 



Philadelphia, Pa. 



From 
Mayl, 
1898, to 
June 
30, 1898. 



Prom 
July 1. 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 



Blankets 

Blouses, lined _ 

Boots. - pairs. - 

Canvas fatigue coats. 

Canvas fatigue trousers, 

pairs - 

Caps, forage - 

Drawers: 

Canton flannel. paii-s.. 

Summer do 

Wool do — 

Field and summer uni- 
forms suits. . 

Gauntlets, buckskin, pairs 

Gloves, Berlin pairs.. 

Hats: 

Campaign 

Canvas. 

Helmets: 

/ Cork 

Untrimmed 

Leggings paii-s.. 

Overcoats 

Ponchos 

Shirts: 

D. B. flannel. 

Gingham and muslin 
Shoes: 

Barrack pairs 

Calfskin do — 

Stockings: 

Cotton do — 

Wool.... do 

Suspenders. do — 

Trousers: 

Kersey, foot do.... 

Kersey. mounted,pairs 
Undershirts: 

Cotton 

Woolen 

Axes 

Ax helves 

Ax slings 

Barrack bags 

Bedsacks 

Bedsheets 

Bedsteads 

Books: 

Company sets.. 

Post do — 

Regimental do — 

Brushes, scrubbing 

Bugles, light artillery 

Chaii-s, barrack 

Color belts ana slings 

Drums - 

Drum slings 

Fifes 

Flags: 

Garrison 

Post 

Storm and recruiting. 

Hammocks 

Hand litters 

Hatchets 

Hatchet helves 

Hatchet slings 

Kettles, camp 

Mattresses. - 

Mattress covers 

Mosquito bars 

Mosquito head-nets 

Music pouches 

Pickaxes 



216,000 



1,025 



230,000 



50.000 
260,000 



177,6.50 



63,377 
80,000 

210,950 
45,480 

20,600 



153,000 



215,800 
55,900 



25,000 
a53,233 

220.000 

moO) 

59,095 



100,000 



50,000 



Total. 



From 
May 1, 
1898, to 
June 
30, 1898. 



393, a50 



1,025 



230,000 



50,00t:i 
360,000 



180,000 



25,000 



105,000 
17,050 



320,000 



.19,419 
1.50, IXK) 

"io6,'(i66 

125,000 
1.5,000 

100,000 



112,37 

80,000 

420,950 
4.5,480 

45,600 

55 

153,000 



320,800 
72,950 



San Francisco, Cal. 



St. Louis, Mo. 



From 
Julyl, 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 



27.611 
12,232 



24,022 
24,011 



60,658 



30,000 



7,396 



3,652 



12,-500 
28,500 
2,000 



15,000 

"i,"o66 



2,093 

225 

325 

10,000 

400 



5,000 
13,200 



20,000 
"3,"666 



1,200 
100 



2.5,000 
372,652 

370.n<Ki 
1(X). 000 
1.50, (X»5 

125,000 
15,000 

420,000 



17, .500 
41,700 
2,000 



1,621 
3, 40<) 
1,500 

100 

200 

;i5ii 

1.5,fKKI .. 
2.50 .. 
10, 400 1 
11,5<>8! 

2,aX3 ., 
15.002 

1.000 



2.50 

80 



500 

.50 
100 
2.50 



.5.000 
20,600 



5.(X)0 
3,000 



3,5.000 

.50;000i 30,000 
....... 1,775 

5,4351 o.OlM 



35,000 

""4,'o66 

3,393 
325 
335 

10,000 
400 



2.50 
1,701 
3,400 
2.(KX» 

150 
3«X) 
600 

15,000 
2.50 

1.5,400 

:32, 168 
2,000, 

20,002 
4,000 



4,000 
1..585 



27,319 
91,241 



1,186 

127, 6.59 
2:3, 764 

5,000 

12,256 



3,125 

7,000 



7,579 
7,579 



9,068 
13,879 

16,000 



5,014 



16.(X10 

22,000 

51,093 



Total. 



From From 
Mayl, Julyl, 
1898, to 1898. to 
June 1 Aug. 
30, 1898. 15, 1898. 



:30,736 
19,232 



31,601 
31,590 



69,726 
12,879 

46,000 



13,410 



3,6.55 



4,000 
1,585 



43, .319 
113,241 



.51,093 

1,1861 



4,100 



10.000 



10,000 



6,36: 



68 



37,847 

25,999 

1,850 

2,350 



40,029 



979 
1,000 



1,779 



49.000 
21. 178 
11,.5(X 

7,000 



9,860 
12, 879 
1.750 
3,400 



3,000 
7,000 



300 



176,6.591. 
44.942- 
16. 5<.X)i - 



Total. 



4,100 



.396 



9,033 



5,426 



19,256 



47,707 
38,878 
3,600 
5,7.50 



S.lXK) 
7,000 
40,029 



300 



12 



35,000; 

80.000 

1,775 

10.435! 



25.000 
"i,'i50 



1,700 
1,600 
200 
1,080 
1,000 
7,000 
40.0<X) 
.5,000 

'"""820 



3.679 

2.600 

200 

2,&59 

1.000 

7.000 

40.000 

30.0(X) 



270 



7.720 
14,000 



7,000 
10,000 



,500 



10,396 



35,600 



15,400 



5,494 



10,000 

"Km 
10,000 



9,000 



5,000 
10,000 



2.499 



10,000 

'i2,'726 
24,000 



12,000 
20,000 

"'9,999 



9,000 



45 G 



INVESTIG.VTION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



|l 



Statement slioiving principal articles of clothing, eic— Continued. 





Philadelphia, Pa. 


San Francisco, Cal. 


St. Louis, Mo. 


Articles. 


From 
Mayl, 
isits, to 

June 
30,1898. 


From 
July 1, 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


From 
Mayl, 
1898, to 

June 
30,1898. 


From 
Julyl. 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


Total. 

2..5.5(_ 

1.750 

1,02( 

1.207 

3 

1,400 

ai5 

390 

51,100 

1,301 


From 
May 1, 
1898, to 

June 
30,1898. 


Fi'om 
Julyl, 
1898, to Total. 

Aug. 
15,1898. 


Pickax helves .. 


4,886 


10.594 
3,000 

""h'Sm 

5, 705 
1,00( 


15,480 
3,000 

2,100 
9,600 
7,205 

3,500 

39 
1 


1,350 
25 

1,200 

900 

1,007 

200 

40 

41,100 
801 


1,2(K1 

550 

120 

200 

3 

1,200 

265 

250 

10,000 

400 


14,000 


14.(X10 


Pillows . 




Shovels: 

Long handles 


3,100 
4,600 
1,500 

\,m) 

39 
1 


4,000 
5,0<K 
7,0(XJ 


1.260 5.260 


Short handles 


1,.S(K) 6.8f)0 




1 500 8 500 


Stencils- sets.. 




Tents: 


2, 715 
1.50 

■""8,'i89 
799 


743 3,458 

1.50 






50 
300 


50 


Shelter, halves 


10,00( 
197 




10, 0(JO 
197 


8,189 


Wall. 


1,099 


Tent overcoats , 




Trumpets 


750 


3,810 
2,000 
15,727 

8,472 
3,834 


4,560 

3,000 

35, 737 

29,917 
21,959 

3,010 
21,000 
461,001 

230,000 
330,000 
100,000 

122. 853 














Whistles - - 














Mess pans 


10,000 

31,445 
18,125 

3.010 
,21,000 


3,360 

i,;mo 


1,500 


4,860 

i,;mi 


15,000 




15.000 


Buttons, line: 

Large gross . . 




Small !.do 








Cloth: 

Facing yards.- 

Italian ._ ..do 


433 


560 


993 
















Drilling do 


aS6.001I 75.000 


6,009 


2,000 


8,009 








Duck: 

13-ounce- - do.. . 


ISSO.OOO 
180,000 


1.50.6(X) 








10-ounce do 














8-ounce do 


100,000 














For canva^ fatigue 


l;:3,853 
221,960 
















Flannel: 

Blouse do 


221,960 
525,000 
649,082 
225,000 
232,000 
675,620 

371.509 


8,519 
737 


3,200 
'"37,"656 


11,719 

737 

27,650 








Blouse lining do 


52:3, oai! 

449,0821 200,000 

225,000' 

3;}3,(KX) 








( 'anton do 








< 'ajii'lining . ...do 








( )viT(!oat. .-do 














Shirting do 


071,630 

370,000 


4,000 

1,.509 
62,500 

""'5,'500 

""i,"630 
273,000 















Jeans: 

(Dorset do 














White ....do.... 


63,500 

560.000 

5,500 

200,383 

500,600 
170.300 
41,630 

834,838 
419. ,250 














Kersey: 

Sky hlue do...'. 


500,(100 

"300,'383 

5(K1. 600 
170, 200 
40,000 

5<)3,828 
419.250 


1,098 


16,110 


17,308 








Dark blue do .. 








Muslin, unbleached .do 


1,890 


2,500 


4,3iK) 








Padding: 

Black do.... 








Canvas .do 


17,000 




17,000 








Serge do 








Shelter tent material, 
yards 














Silesia, black yards.. 


4,022 




4,022 


















New York, N. Y. 


Chicago, 111. 


Boston, Mass. 


Articles. 


From 
May 1, 

1 898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 


From 
Julyl, 

189S,to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


Total. 


From 
May 1, 

1898. to 
June 
m. 1898. 


From 
Julyl, 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


From 
Mayl, 

189K. to 

June 

:?0, 1898, 


From 
July], 
1898, to 
Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


Blankets 


2,600 
92,992 
29,110 

9, 150 


36,000 
162,008 
205,890 

98.019 


38,600 41 000 


17,950 


58 950 








Blouses, unlined 


255. 000 












Drawers, summer . pairs . 
Field and summer uni- 
forms suits . . 


2;K,(JOO 

107. 169 

5,000 

375. COO 


341,168 
""46." 800 


13,000 

"2,74.5 

20,000 


354,168 

'""2,'745 
60,800 


40,000 


75,000 


115,000 


Hats, campaign 


5,000] 

13,5001 361.. 500 








Leggings .pairs.. 








Overcoats 




125,000 125. (KKI 
131, :U4 ].-)0,6(X) 
103.4;:i, 153.600 
lS().2(Kli ;^61.H4fl 








Shirts, D.B. flannel. 

Shoes, calfskin pairs. . 

Stockings, cotton., .do 


29,3o(i 

49,857 
181,640 


55,200 
105,433 
152,000 
105, 5(X) 


3,666 

67,729 
250,000 
a5,000 


58,200 
173, 161 
402, (K)0 
140,500 


a5.363 
22, 157 


142,423 
45,100 


307,786 
67,257 


Suspenders do 












Trousers: 

Duck do 


4.1.5o' 110. a50 


115,000 

243, 500 

18,000 








Kersev, foot . . . . do. . . . 103, 095! 141, 405 














Kersey, mounted,pairs| | 18, 000 
















REPLY OF orARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 



Statement shovnng principal articles of clothing, etc. — Continued. 



457 





New York, N. Y. 


Chicago, 111. 


Boston, Mass. 


.Articles. 


From 
May 1, 
1898, to 

June 
30, 1898. 


From 
Julyl. 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


From 
Mav 1. 
1898. to 

June 
:iO, 1898. 


From 
July 1, 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


From 
Mayl. 
189S. to 
June 
30, 1898. 


From 
Julvl, 
1898, to 

Aug, 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


Undershirts: 


110,949 

5,448 
1,800 
1,800 

2,100 
100 
•>25 

3,000 
37,000 


334,051 

1,500 
2:50 

250 


435,000 
.5,448 
1,800 
1.800 

8,600 

a50 

475 

3.000 

107,000 


251,464 


22,000 


973, 4&4 


40.000 


75,000 


115,000 




Axes - 














Ax helves - - - 














Books: 

Company sets . . 














Post do 














Regimental do 


























Hammocks 














Hand litters . . - 


2,000 


1,000 


3.000 








Hatchets .- 


600 
6(X) 
394 
16,0t)0 
3,360 
3.720 
3,(X)0 
2,700 

4,518 

300 

100 

848 

30,896 

1,014 

19,900 

12 

10,485 


7.50 

"'2i,'50f) 

"i.'ooo 

10,502 

""2,' 262 

";j.5, 104 
1,612 
5,100 


600 
1,350 

394 
37,500 
3,360 
3.720 
4.000 
2.700 

15,020 

300 

:J.362 

848 

60,000 

2,a56 

2.5,000 

12 

10,485 






















Kettle.*, camp 










• 




Mosquito head nets 




























Pickax helves 














Shovels, short handles 




























Tents: 


5, 185 


800 


5,985 








Conical wall 










50 


1,500 


1,550 








Irregular 








Shelter, halves _ . . 


1..500 
1,343 


200 


1,500 
1,543 








Wall 








Tent overcoats -. 






















Mess pans 































Jeflfersonville, Ind. 


Baltimore, Md. New Orleans, La. 


Articles. 


From 

Mayl, 

1898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 


From 
Julyl, 

1898. to 
Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


From 
Mayl, 
1898, to 

June 
30, 1898. 


From 
Julvl, 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15,1898. 


Total. 


From 
May 1. 

1898. to 
June 
30. 1898. 


From 
Julyl. 

1898. to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


Total. 


Drawers, summer .pairs. . 














3,300 




2,300 


Shirts, D B flannel 








:379 
360 




379 
360 




Shoes, calfskin pairs.. 








147 

39,600 

1,000 


636,"660 


147 










675, 600 


Underskirts, cotton-do 














1,000 




293 
343 


3,000 
3,000 


3,293 












3,34:3 






















420 
2,261 




430 
















2,361 






3,iX)0 
3,000 

3.001 
3,00(J 
3,(K10 


3,000 
3,000 

3,007 
3. 1 K16 
3, (too 


























Shovels: 


6 
6 










































Tents: 

Common 




5,375 

;»7 
173 

41,588 
516 


7,(U5 
1.40:2 


i:j, 020 


.500 




500 


Hospital 








1 , (i09 50 


50 










173 

41,588 






Shelter, halves 














Wall 


300 




;i00 


516 


100 
1,045 




1(H) 




1,045 


Buttons, line: 




2, 1«) 

2, .520 

23.01] 

20,000 

400,000 

100, IX Hi 
300,IXKI 
69,6iH» 
93.6IK) 
60.IHHI 
18,0(KI 


2, ItiO 














2,520 
2:5.845 

20,000 

400,000 

KKi.rxX) 

lilHI.IKH) 
ti!). (HK) 
93,6I")0 
(H),0(KJ 
18,000 














Drilling yards.. 

Duck: 


834 


























For canvas fatigue 
















Flannel: 













































































































458 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH ^^PAIN. 



Statement showing principal articles of clothing, efc— Continued. 





Washington, 
D. C. 


Detroit, Mich 


1-5 r^ 

as 

O 


11 

s o 


man 

Si-h" 


Totals. 




Articles. 


5 

CO . 
05 CO 


o 

So.. 
-J 

lit 


1 




o 
c - 


From July 1,1898, to 
Aug. 15, 1898. 

Total. 


From 
May 1, 
1898, to 

June 
30,1898 


From 
July 1, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


Grand 
total. 


Blankets .- 












10,00C 


5,4.50 


3,426 


299,187 

12,232 

92,992 

1,025 

24,032 

34,011 
330,000 

50,000 
648,436 


347,151 

7,000 
162,008 


.546,338 

19,2,32 

2.55, (XX) 

1 025 


Blouses: 

Lined 












Unlined 


















Boots pairs.. 


















Canvas fatigue coats 










1 








7,579 
7,579 


31,601 

31, .590 
330,000 

50 000 


Canvas fatigue trousers, 
pairs 










i 
1 








Caps, forage 




















Drawei's: 

Canton flannel .pairs. 






















Summer do 


















.5,200 


408,554 
12,879 

114,019 

50,000 


1,056,990 

12,879 

1.53,169 

112,-377 
80,00(3 

476,705 
45,480 

53,2)2 


Wool do.... 




















Field and summer uni- 
forms suits.. 




















39, 150 

62,377 

80,000 

363,-346 
45,480 

34,352 


Gaxmtlets, buckskin, 




















Gloves, Bei-iin pairs.. 




















Hats: 

Campaign 




















213, a59 


Canvas 




















Helmets: 
Cork 




















2.5,000 

55 

381,500 

125,000 

105,000 

308,850 
32,000 

51,093 
24:5,640 

i,370,,-)no 

21. 17,^ 

146..J(KI 

115,000 
273,405 

33,000 

546,111 
12,879 
14,7.50 
21,520 


T.Tn trimmed 




















Leggings pairs.. 




















307,300 

4.000 

220,385 

239,784 
91,241 

25,000 
538,663 

726, 199 
129, 764 
169,595 

4,150 
114,351 


588.,'ii)(i 
129.000 
335 3^5 


Overcoats 




















Ponchos 














3,000 






Shirts: 

D. B. flannel.. 


















548,634 
113,241 

76,093 
783,30:! 


(lingham and muslin . 




















Shoes: 

Barrack pairs . . 




















Calfskin do 
















3,000 


3,223 
5,300 


Stockings: 

Cotton do 
















Wool do — . 
















6,000 




Suspenders do... 


















Trousers: 

Duck.. do 




















119,1.50 
387 7.56 


Kersey, foot... do 




















Kei-sey, mounted, 
pairs 




















3:3,000 
1 212 056 


Undershirts: 

Cotton 


85 




85 












5,200 


766,545 
31,477 
24,213 
48,103 
2,000 


Woolen 












44, .3.56 
38,963 
69.62:! 
2 0(10 


Axes 


50 
150 


""960 


50 
1,110 














As helves 












960 


Ax slings 












Bari-ack bags. . , 




















3,000 

27,000 


3, 001 1 


Bedsacks 


















1,500 


16,500 

40,039 

1,000 

4,193 

325 

5.50 

10,000 

400 


Bedsheets 


















40, 029 
4,000 

6,893 


Bedsteads 




















3,000 

2,700 
350 
250 


Books: 

Company sets.. 




















Post do.... 




















Regimental do 




















800 


Brushes, scrubbicg 




















10,000 
400 


Bugles, light artillery . . . 






















Chairs, barrack 




















3(X) 
250 
28 
92 


300 


Color belts and slings . . 






















2.50 


Dispatch cases 


200 


28 


228 














200 
1,621 
6,400 
1,500 

100 

200 

350 

53,000 

2,250 


2''S 


Drums 














1 713 


Drum slings 




















6,400 
2,000 

198 


Fifes 




















500 

98 

100 

250 

70.000 

1,000 


Flags: 

Garrison 




















Post 




















;i)00 


Storm and recruiting 




















600 


Hammocks. 




















122 000 


Hand litters 




















3.250 



REPLY OF C^UARTERMASTKR-GENERAL. 
Statement shovying principal articles of clothing, efc— Continued, 



459 



Articles. 


Washington, 
D. C. 


Detroit, Mich. 


a .- 
BE 

ooo 
a'-' 
O 


oo 
03 


a", 

H 

> 


Totals. 




o 
u 


5 

Sod 


3 

o 


o 


is 


1 


From 
May 1, 

1S08, to 

June 

:i(), 1898. 


From 
July 1, 
1898, to 

Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Grand 
total. 


Hatehets .- 


50 
150 




50 
150 














19 029 


11 'rem 


30,729 

56. 268 


Hatchet helves 














2:3,3181 32,95( 

2.000' 200 

25. 765i 8. .57! 

1 000 '^ fXT 


flatchet slings 














Kfttles.camp .-_ 


50 




50 












620 


34.:344 

s.aio 

7.000 

67.261 

147,500 

1 775 


Mattresses - - 












Mattress covers 






















7, (KX) 
An iim 


M( isquito Imrs . . 




















27 261 


Mdsquito head nets 




















91 (XK)' -'"»<!' -^nii 


^lusic pouches 






















L775 

s urn 


Pickaxes 


50 




50 














19 2a5 


28, 1.55 
38 750 


Pickax helves 














"23,956; 14;794 
25- 3,000 

7,306 4,811 
13,506 in 9«i 


Pilllows ...! 


















3,025 

13,117 
2i 4''6 


Shovels: 

Long han dies 




















Short handles _ _ 




















Spades 


50 


.... 


50 














12.257 
1,500 

18,887 

451 

447 

1.244 

135, 77:5 

5,270 

19,900 

762 


10,405 
1,50:3 

24,190 

265 

5,473 

"""39J(H 
2, 712 
5, UK) 
4,126 
29000 
18.672 

10,6:32 
6.354 

rwa) 


'» (5(i2 


Stencils sets-. 








500 






3,003 

43,077 
716 


Tents: 

Common 








2:50 


3,300 


3,5.50 




105 


Conical wall 












Hospital-- 


















9 
22!? 


5,920 
1 ''44 


Irregular 








" 










Shelter halves, . 








2,500 




2,500 






174 877 


Wall 












200 


7 982 


Tent overcoats 


















25,0(K) 
4,888 
2,000 

58,662 

33 37V 


"^rumijets 




316 


316 














Whistles 
















Mi'sspans 


100 




100 














39,990 

22,745 
18,125 

:3.44;3 


Buttons, line: 

Large gross 














Small do 




















24,479 
4 003 


Cloth: 

Facing yards - - 




















Italian _. . do 




















21 000 


•'1 000 






















392 844 


1(K),011 
20,000 




Duck: 

Bleached- do 






















20,0(X) 
230,000 


12-ounce do . 




















2:30,000 
180, (KKI 
K X», 0(X) 

122,85:3 

3:30,479 
525,737 
449,082 
22.5,000 

2:32,000 
671,620 

270,000 


10-ounce do 




















l.nO.(KK) 


8-ounce . - . do _. 




















' 10O,0(X) 

400 (XX) 522 8ij3 


For canvas fatigue 
clothing yards 




















Flannel: 

Blouse do -- 




















3,200 a3:5,679 
52.") 737 


Blouse lining .-do 




















Canton .. do 














31,779 






559,429 1 Cifw ^^^ 






















235,000 

4t? fV¥l 


Overcoat lining, 
yards 






















Shirting ...... yards . . 




















i,m. 6751620 
1,509 271,509 


Jeans: 

Corset -do ' 


















White- do 


















02,500 ti^ .tOO 


Kersey: 

Sky blue do 




















561,098 


16, 110 
5,500 
69,(300 

96,100 


577 208 


Dark blue do 




















5,500 


Lasting, black do 






















69,600 


Muslin, unbleached, 
yards 




















202,273 

500. 600 
187.200 
40,000 

562.828 
423,272 


Padding: 

Black yards. - 




















60,000 ."uMl r.on 


Canvas do 






















187,200 
41-ti2<) 


Serge do 




















i,(J2(J 


Shelter-tent material, 
yards _ 




















272,0ri0 834,828 
18.000, 441.272 


Silesia, black yards. - j 









































4(j() mVESTIOATK^N OF CONDUCT OP WAR WITH SPATN. 

Exhibit D. 

Part 1.— Statement shoiving the issues of clothing and equipage supplies as ordered 

by the Quartermasler-GeneraVs Office f^-om May 1, 1898, to August 15, 1S9S. 



Articles. 



Mayl, 

1898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 



Blankets, wool . _ 

Blouses, lined and unlined 

Caps, forage 

Canvas fatigue coats 

Canvas fatigue trou 

sers paii's. 

Drawers: 

(';'"! on flannel . pairs . 

, ..aner do... 

lOiCi and summer uni- 
forms - 

Gauntlets, leather 

Gloves, Berlin pairs. 

Hats: 

C'ampaign _ 

Canvas 

Helmets, cork -•. - 

Leggings pairs. 

(Overalls 

Oveicoats _ 

Ponchos and rubber 

blankets 

Shirts, flaunel and ging- 
ham - 

Sh»es: 

Bai'i-ack pairs . 

Leather do... 

Stable frocks . . - 

Stockings: 

Cotton ..pail's. 

Wool. do . 

Suspenders - do 

Trousers: 

Campaign pairs . 

Foot ..do... 

Mounted do... 

Undershirts: 

Cotton 

Wool 

Axes 

Ax helves 

Bedsacks 

Books, all kinds, number 

Colors and standards 

Drums 

Fifes 

Flags, all kinds.. 

Guidons 

Hammocks 

Hand litters 

Hatchets 

Hatchet helves 

Kettles, camp 

Mess pans 

Mosquito bars 

Mosquito head nets 

Pickaxes 

Pickax helves 

Shovels: 

Long-handled 

Short-handled 

Spades 

Tents: 

Common 

Conical wall 

Hospital 

Shelter halves 

Wall 

Irregular _ 

Trumpets 

Duck: 

Tent, all kinds. yards. 

Brown ..do... 

Flannel: 

Blouse. do 

Blouse and O. C. Ig 

Canton yards. 

Shirting do 

Kersey, daA-blue. . .do 



Philadelphia, Pa. | Jeffersonville, Ind. 



July 1, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 



148, 765 
^,318 



5,4119 
4,721 



13. 134 
145.(312 



16,488 
78, 71i 

153, 892 

46, 7i>3 

6, 125 

104,673 
2,074 
2,713 

178, 78: 

84,540 

9,0 7 

173. 504 

1.119 

;}05, 22 
2. 54.S 
56,017 



45, 741 
10, 803 

49, 72.': 

4, 8.5i 

6,924 

3,4' 

4, 135 

7.478 

8 

193 

437 

18 

59 

13.091 

51 

3,9.58 

5,9.5r 

7,316 

3, 7.53 

4,092 

2.601 

3,868 

3,926 

2. 661 

1. 798 
3,873 

1,960 

464 

230 

144, 7a5 

l,0tS4 



878 



60,694 
13,41 



62, 981 



50,043 
200 



64, 861 

34,9a5 

9,29' 

1,039 

.3,290 

4,937 
141.251 

1,969 

14.339 

508,414 

291,394 

44« 

10,841 

73.3:« 

4.208 

8, 125 

92,86;^ 

78, 616 

12,619 

97. 89t 
1,279 

I:i2.(il4 
3. liji 
13. 694 

9,335 
.59, 653 
11,606 



, 738 
,820 
,4a5 
.956 
,602 

9; 

,790 

,818 

,64' 
,038 

,.55; 

406 
23 
343 
,9621 
159 



Total. 



May 1, 

1898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 



313,636 

49,283 

9,397 

6,448 

7,011 

18,071 
386,863 

1,969 
30. 717 
139. 136 

445.286 
47.201 
16.966 

178.006 

6, 283 
10,838 

271.650 

163, L5( 

21,636 
271,400 



427, 841 

5, 707 

69,711 

9,325 
ia5,394 
23.409 

106,938 
6. 160 
13,310 
14, 

18,833 
12.09' 



15, 



,801 
,709 
,693 
,693 

,658 
,744 

,;i08 

,836 
,425 



843 
,550 



10 



1,731 



45,817 



3,793 
3,549 
41,936 



58 



20,114 



3,399 



293 
343 



58 



2,730 



11,177 



803 
233 

6 
6 

507 

23 



134 



8,668 

88,332 
15,375 



17,898 



July 1, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 



27,570 



2,753 
2, 610 
8,130 



142 



893 
39 



255 
255 



Total. 



73,387 



6.546 

6. 1.59 

50.06t> 



200 



20, 329 



4,193 
39 



548 

598 



1.5,615 



37,481 
19,740 



2,730 
ii.309 



803 
33:1 



50: 
23 



303 



iU,i 



115,813 
35,015 



17,898 



St. Louis, Mo. 




0.087 



19, 400 
8, 513 



368 

asi 

, OKI 

68' 



1,813 

1.884 



739! 
4,5461 



1,601 
8,147 



14,426 1.779 



Total. 



1(1.375 
3,348 
4,849 
9,344 

9. .5.58 

21.313 
10.396 



6.020[ 

9,974! 

3, 149; 

4tiO 

3,020 

I 
18, ()88, 

I5.O53I 

14,8371 

173 

&3, 8.35; 
11.330 
3. .5.38 



13,;i36 
6,365 

18,033 

m 

5, 67.= 
8,464 



(m 



1,748 
5,760 
3, .574 
3,444 
43 



3,903 
6,31(i 

1..571 
3,357 

3,789 

5,633 
355 
313 

8,033 
983 

1,313 
346 



1,178 
1,"364 



3, 415 
3,741 

11,7:33 

6, 706 

l.:568i 

2,079 

141 

98' 



3, 183 
3, 717 
1. 1(56 
1,064 
384 
31 
l,(X)7i 
1.522 

737 
1,449 
1,241 

74(1 

3 

17 

.5,300 

323 



33 



3.330 
13,693 

16,;»5 



;M 6,054 

],-36;3 11.337 

3,:M5' 5,494 

68O1 1,140 

505 2, .525 

! 

9,832, 38,530 

591' 15,(34;5 

3,282i 17,1(19 

1,839 3.(Hil 

7, 2731 71,108 

3, .3,51 14,671 

8,5(i 3, 394 



15, 741 
10.1(11 

29,7(r> 
7,042 
7,04:1 

10, 54:1 

141 

701 



3, 930 
8, :187 
4.740 
3, .508 
327 
21 
4.91(1 
7, 8:>^ 

3,308 

4,806 

5,o;io 

6, 37:; 

358 

3.2it 

13,233 

1.205 

1,213 

368 



1,180 
"4,264 



REPLY OF 

Sfdtcment shoioing the issiies 


QUARTERMAS'IKK-GENERAL. 
of clothing and equipage supplies, etc- 


4G1 

—Continued. 


\ 


San Francisco, Cal. 


New Yofk, N. Y. 


Chicago, 111. 


Articles. 


May 1. 

1898, to 
June 
30,1898. 


Julyl, 

1898. to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 

8,775 
11,730 

1,857! 
15, 780 

15,937 

15,348 
16, 4.58 

" '586 
6,638 
11,564 
3,637 
11,194 
954 
3, 163 

8,990 

37,330 

9,483 

19,644 

480 

47,4;« 
13,826 
18,393 


Total. 


Mayl, 

L898. to 

June 

30, 1898. 


Julyl, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1^8. 


Total. 


Mayl. 
1898. to 
Jun(! 
30, 1898. 


Julyl. 

l.S98,to 

Aug. ; 
15, 1898. 


Totiil 




35,099 

14, 1.56 

1,301 

21,081 

31,038 


33. 874 
35. 876 
3. l;>s 
36.861 

3tj,96.5 

15,348 
76,435j 

34,570 

686 

31,653 

37, 707 

14,3;J7 

17,706 

1,194 

3, 405 

33,833 

137, 735 

33, 719 

43,573 

630 

173,479 
31,095 
34,133 


2,000 
92,650 


8,100 
57,-582 


10,100 
1,50,333 


2.000 


14,562 


16, .5! 3 


Bl 1 luses, lined and unlined . 










Ciiiivas fatigue coats 

Ciuivas fatigue troUs- 
cTs pairs.. 

Drawers: 




























Summer do.... 

Field and summer uni- 
fornis - -. 


59,967 

34,570 
80 
15,014 
16,143 
11.700 
6.513 
159 
1,343 

13,833 

100, 495 

14,337 

33,929 

140 

126,049 
17,269 
5,730 


7,000 
4,150 


73,300 

84,975 


80,300 
89, 135 


1.5,400 


139,42:3 


144,823 
























5,000 




.5,000 




1,798 


1,798 






Liirt,nngs pairs. 


13,6.56 


86, 8.59 


99,515 


31,206 




31,206 
















Punohos and rubber 


3. .500 
35,519 


.57,535 


3..5<KI 
83,054 








Shirts, flannel and ging- 




26,022 


26,022 


Shoes: 

Barrack pairs.. 

Leather .do 




44,082 


38,026 


73,008 


39,023 


68,906 


107,929 


Stockings: 

Cotton pairs. - 

Wool do 

Suspenders ...do 

Trousers: 


80,275 


100,702 


180,975 


34,606 


214,984 


249,590 








8,402 


26,430 


34,832 




38,078 
74.421 
12, 639 

136, 616 

"""i.'.533 
3, .533 
3,045 


38,078 
176. .516 
12. 6;S> 




Foot do 

« Mounted do 

l;ndershirts: 

Cotton 


14,468 
837 

33,537 

23,768 
3,310 
2,800 


9,400 
645 

17,653 
15,473 
1,413 
3,955 


23,868 
1,483 

.50, 189 
39,341 
3,733 
5, 7.55 


l(r3,095 

64,631 
.5.448 
1,800 
1,800 














301,347 
.5,448 
3,333 
5,333 
3,045 


30,104 


156,811 


176.915 


Wool 




















Books, all kinds, number . 








5 
12 
29 


9 

8 

320 


14 
30 
349 










Fifes 






























32,810 


20,110 


53,930 




562 








2 
1,402 

3.986 

i.;«7 

1,:580 
18,445 
1,750 

.58( 
1.000 

73;i 
m 

.506 

9;« 

,56 
98 
16.6:i'i 
16.« 
.5C 

11 
17( 

lit 

i 3.5' 

1 1( 
) 1,13- 


2 
2,835 
4.915 
2 8;i9 


.562 




l,4a3 
1,929 
1,483 
3.467 
467 
30,560 
1.179 
1,.514 

■M 

7!K 

1.233 

634 

9 

940 

35,058 

1,17C 

207 

5e 
If 

13,092 

8,994 

5,a5( 

87-! 

14,49t 


600 
600 


500 
750 


1,100 
1.350 














Kettles, camp 








• 3.847 
18,913 


5,689 


1,296 


6,985 
















i\los(iuito head nets. 

Pickaxes 

Pickax helves. 

Shovels: 


22,310 
1.7.59 
3.514 

1,091 
i 1,198 

l,7rJ9 

1..567 

a' 

1,039 

41.694 

l.:?38 

3.57 

71 
194 

) 13.30e 
8 99-J 


:\.7:'M 

""3,"(VkJ 
2,700 

4,346 

m 

100 

27, OK 

810 


30,00( 

5:J8 

.588 

l.(KX 
1,3.5( 
1,000 

3,701 
2 

873 

38,188 

68(j 

178 


36,000 
3,898 
4 308 




















1.000 
4.350 
,3,700 

8.047 

302 

973 

.55. 198 

1.49h 

178 








Short-handled . 








Tents: 


l,a55 


4,114 


5,469 








2! 

1,:«K) 

.514 




422 

2O0 

1,041 


451 


Shelter halves 

Wall 


1,500 
1,.555 






Duck: 

Brown yards.. 

Bleached do 

Flannel: 

Blouse — do.. 

Blouse and O. C. Ig.... 

Canton yards. 

Shirting do. 
































I 












( 5. fiOt 
^ 1.5.63^ 


) 
























1 
















1 













402 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Statement shoioing the issues of clothing and equipage supplies, etc. — Continued. 





Boston, Mass. 


Baltimore. Md. 


New Orleans, La. 


Articles. 


Mayl, 

1898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 


Julyl, 
1898, to 
Aug. 
15, 1898. 


Total. 


Mayl, 
1898, to 
June 
30,1898. 


July 1, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


Total. 


Mayl, 

1898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 


Julyl, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15,1898. 


Total. 


Drawers, summer .pairs. _ 




8,340 

39,124 
60 


8,340 

104,487 
810 










2,300 


2 'iUO 


Shirts, flannel and'ging- 
ham 


65,363 
750 


379 
360 




379 
360 






Shoes, leather pairs.. 

Stockings, cotton ...do 


'"2,'o6o 


147 

63,840 
1,000 

'""i."36i 

220 


147 

65 840 


Undershirts, cotton 




9,533 


9,533 








1 0(10 


Kettles, camp 










472 
1,045 


473 


Mess pans 














1,045 
1 ''61 


Mos(juito bars 














Tents: 








1,978 

307 

40,950 

516 

69 


11 ft33 I-"! nifi 


380 
2 


500 


Hospital 








857 
326 


1,064 

41,276 

.516 

69 


2 


Shelter halves .. 










Wall 








65 


35 


100 


Irregular 



























Detroit, Mich. 


St. Paul, Minn 


Washington, 
D. C. 


Total. 




Articles. 


o 

-'^od 

'-I (D 


O 

St 


o 




si 


Is 

EH 


o 

+^o6 

^M 

OS 3 


St 


"is 
O 


Mayl, 

1898, to 

June 

30, 1898. 


Julyl, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


Grand 
total. 


Blankets, wool 








5,200 


25 


.5,225 








193,071 

179,908 

4.140 

38,840 

38,385 

74,470 
236,491 

38,730 
17,397 
98,272 

189,519 
'16, 753 
•23. Sir, 
133.,sir. 
5, 395 
4,416 

197, 139 

315,098 

38,306 

299,475 

4,730 

617,990 
31, 137 
72,687 


96,691 

133,318 

13,164 

30,359 

31,308 

30, 128 
373,856 

86, 944 
16,416 
a5, 199 

306,677 

448 

i:!,513 

■-'(i:!, S.V) 

7.966 

10,967 

103,358 

238,574 

23,693 
31().961 

4,481 

5.56,883 
3(J.336 
59,373 

47,403 
145,889 
38,631 

390,557 

33,487 

9,834 

20,866 

14,838 

8,676 

60 

330 

103 

763 


289 7f)2 


Blouses, lined and unlined. 














302 126 


Caps, foiage 




















17 :W4 


Canvas fatigue coats 




















59 099 


Canvas fatigue trousers, 
pairs- 




















59 693 


Drawei's: 

( "auton-flannel . . pairs 




















104, .598 
609 347 


Summer do 




















Field and summer uni- 
forms 




















115 664 


Gauntlets, leather 




















S3 713 


Gloves, Berlin 




















163,471 

496,196 
47 201 


Hats: 

Campaign 




















Canvas 




















Helmets, coi'k 




















37 357 


Leggings pairs.. 




















337 670 


Overalls. 




















13,361 


Overcoats do 




















15,383 

299,497 

553,673 

60,998 

.516,436 

9 311 


Ponchos and rubber blan- 
kets.. 




















Shirts, flannel and ging- 
ham 




















Sh(5es: 

Barrack pairs . . 




















Leather do 








3,000 




3,000 








Stable frocks 














Stockings; 

Cotton ...pairs.. 








6,000 




6,0(X) 








1,174,872 
51,473 
133,059 

47,403 
331 519 


Wool do 

Suspenders do 














Trousers: 

Campaign- do 




















Foot. do...- 




















175,6;i0 
18,005 

185, 115 

;i4,404 

17.0.52 

17,034 

4.135 

8,271 

8 

198 

449 

336 


Monnted do 




















46 63ti 


Undershirts: 

Cotton 














85 





85 




Wool 














57 S')l 


Axes 














50 
150 


'"960 


50 
1,110 


,26. 836 
37 900 


Ax helves 














Bed .sacks 














18,' 973 
16,947 

6.S 


Books, all kinds . . number . . 




















Col ors and standards 




















Drums L 




















A->8 


Fifes 




















5,51 


Flags, all kinds 




















989 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 463 

Statement shounng the issues of clothing and equipage siqjplies, etc. — Continued. 



Articles. 


Detroit, Mich. 


St. Paul, Minn. 


Washington, 
D. C. 


Total. 







is 

00 , 


1 


o 




"3 
o 
Eh 




is 
55 ""l 
"IS 
'" © 


St 




May 1, 

1898. to 

June 

30, 1898. 


July 1, 

1898, to 

Aug. 

15, 1898. 


(iraud 
total. 




_ 


















59 
4.5,901 

51 
10,519 
14.391 
13,894 
36,675 
4,603 
33 161 
13. 163 
15, 759 

4,607 
8.857 
11,143 

19, 115 
1,138 
1,733 
247.087 
5,256 
1,282 
1,431 

60,694 

23, 143 

18 

16.5,583 
"4.369 
,59,656 


57 
33,113 

564 

9,832 

15,273 

6,0OS 

8,738 

;«,593 

27.863 

6.915 

7,938 

14, 107 
4.239 
4,299 

25,-561 
84 

2,610 
85, 513 

3,480 

'"'i,'4i6 

85,550 

15,638 

176 

54.906 

77.840 

2.59 

28,009 

1( 
1,134 


IKi 






















68,013 






















615 
















50 
150 

50 
100 




50 
150 

.50 
100 


20 341 
















29, 6H4 
















]8,{t(l3 
















:r). KKi 
















3.S. 194 


.AI< .squito head nets 






















51.034 
















50 
50 




.50 
50 


20,078 
















23.687 


Shovels: 

Long-handled . 
Short-handled - 
















18,714 






















13, 19C. 
















50 
856 


2.915 


50 
3,771 


15,441 


Tents: 


2,050 


1,500 


3,550 








44,676 




1.212 






















4.:i:J3 


Shelter halves. 
Wall 






















;J32,599 






















7,726 






















1,282 


















316 


316 


2.841 


Duck: 

Tent, all kinds. 

Brown 

Bleached-- 

Flannel: 

Blouse 

Blouse and O. C 

Canton . - . 

Shirting 

, Kersey: 

Dark blue 

Sky blue 


yards.. 
















IK). 344 
37.771 


do 




















194 


do 




















219. 489 






















UK. 109 
.59.915 


do 




















18.973 


46,971 


do 




















10 


do 


















14,490 


15,624 























iCA 



INVESTIOATION OF CONDUCT OF WAli WITH SPAIN. 



p VRT 2.— Statement shoicing the issues of clothing and equipage snpX)Jies as ordered 
bjj the Quartermaster-OeneraVs Office from May 1 to August 15, ISOS. 



Articles. 


Chick- 

amau- 

ga. 


Dunn 

Lor- 

ing. 


Fer- 
nan- 
dina. 


Hunts- 
ville. 


Jack- 
son 
ville. 


Key 

West. 


Lex- 
ington. 


Manila 
exfte- 
dition. 


Miami. 




41,000 
61,500 


14.000 
2.5,500 






15,000 
37,100 






106 
1,397 


1,800 







3,000 






1,800 


Caps, forage 

Canvas fatigue coats 

Canvas fatigue trousers. 


2, .500 
.5,000 

5,000 

59.505 






















4,706 














4,050 




Drawers: 


.5 000 






2,000 
47,911 
21,400 










75,500, .54,000 




1.5,000 






20,453 

11,224 

120 

9,800 

3,083 


5,400 






Gauntlets — pairs.. 

Gloves, Berlin do 

Hats: 


6, 800 1500 












50,000 
60,250 
















27.94« 




5,000 


36,050 
1,000 






742 
























11,699 
5,310 




Lecrgings pairs. . 


75 375 ai Tii 




5,000 


33,000 






1,080 


3,000 
53,000 

116,940 

500 

109,912 

3,000 

i:k onn 


' 








Ponchos.- --- 

Shirts, D. B. flannel and 


20,000 
49,900 




3,m 

5,000 


18,800 
a5,2(X) 






9,200 
53,084 
11,549 


1,800 
9.600 


Shoes: 










36,788 




5,000 


34,180 






8,731i 4,!KH) 










Stockings: 


78,000 




15,000 


60,400 






83,874 


3.6W) 


"Woolen do... 10,000 








16 000 






1,513 

5,000 
31.000 






10,294 




Trousers: i 

Duck do ' 23 000 10 00() 












Kersey, foot ....tlo....j T1.900 
Kersey, mounted, 

pairs 11, .500 

Cudershirts: 

Cotton "<o fmn 


34.827 




5,000 




2,500 




1,8(J0 


.^ .<«(M) 




1.5.000 


43,500 






31,009 


5,400 


Wool 


10, 000 2, 808 










3,&53 .^,.526 
4. 962 4- .582 




390 
1,000 


i,i(:0 
1,9.50 






512 
518 














736 








3,7.50 
100 
300 


1,530 
58 
16 
12 












534 


















Fifes 




























190 














6,000! 




200 
3,6.50 
4,950 


















Hatchets 


3,410 
4.104 




390 
600 
390 


350 

700 

1,648 

1,404 






1,114 
506 
972 














2. .500 2. 790 




Mess pans-. 

Mosq uito bars 


11,500 7.200 






130 


2.500 












30,378 














18,775 




3, ,550 
4,000 

1,960 
4.4.50 


3,526 
3,720 

1.600 
876 

1.876 
300 

3.395 

235 

190 

28,0(X) 

747 




195 
390 

390 


1,100 
1,950 

300 




100 


310 


Pickax helves 

Shovels: 

Long handles 


lOO; 420. 

50 340 

.50 1261 


Spades ' 2.000 

Trumpets 1 S22 




390 


1.200 






136 
25 

1.56 
119 




50 
3,851 








Tents: 


9,968 

753 
73,900 
1. 1&5 

84 




300 






;V)9 












50 


60 

3. ,500 

75 


306! 35 


25 


309 
15,600 


lii 




10,940 
238 




2.00;) 


Wall 




6 


87 160 

















REPLY OF (,>lARTEI.'MAS'I'KIt-GENERAL. 



465 



statement iiJiowiiig the issues of clothing and equipage supplies, etc. — Continued. 



Ai'tieles. 



Blankets 

Blouses 

(Japs, forage 

Cauvas fatigue coats 

Canvas fatigue trousers, 

pairs - 

Drawers : 

Canton flannel 

SSummer 

Field uniforms 

Gauntlets pairs.. 

Gloves, Berlin - do — 

Hats: 

Campaign 

Canvas 

Helmets, cork 

Leggings pairs.. 

Overalls do — 

Overcoats 

Ponchos 

Shirts, D. B. flannel and 

gingham 

Shoes : 

Barrack 

Calfskin 

Stable frocks 

Stockings : 

Cotton pairs- 

Woolen do — 

Suspenders do — 

Trousers : 

Duck - do. .. 

Kersey, foot — do .. 

Kersey, mounted, 

pairs 

Undershirts: 

Cotton 

Wool.. 

Axes 

Ax helves 

Bed sacks 

Books, all kinds. 

Drums 

Fifes 



Mid- 
dle- 
town. 



Mobile. 



530 
2,000 



3,000 



2,000 



6,200 



3,000 
2,000 



2,000 



2,000 



Flags, all kmds 

Iluiuiuocks .- 

Hand litters 

Hatchets 

Hatchet helves 

Kettles, camp 

Mess pans 

Mosquito bars. 

Mosquito head nets. . 

Pickaxes 

Pickax helves 

Pillowcases 

Shovels: 

Long handles 

Short handles ... 

Spades 

Trumpets 

Tents: 

Common 

Conical wall 

Hospital 

Shelter halves.. - 

Wall 

Var ious kinds. -- 



2.000 



3,000 



100 
300 



7,000 
8,900 



5,000 
9,500 



8,000 



Mon- 
tauk 
Point. 



New 
Or- 
leans. 



;5o.oa)' 3.000 

20.000i 1,000 



40,000 



20,000 



8,500 20,000 



9,000: 
8,435 

"7,"506 



19,000 

"i,'66o 



9,500 



14,500 



900 
900 



90 



100 
100 
300 



500 

5(H1 

3,01)0 



200 



2rJ5 
"52 
""75 



500 
50(1 



300 
800 
500 
144 

620 

ti 
•>y 

,3«K» 
355 



9,000 
30. 000 



30.000 

'26,"66o 



40,000 



10. (HX) 



20,000 



40,000 
3,000 
3,000 
4,000 

10.000 
1,440 



3,000 
"'566 



1,000 



Porto 
Rico. 



32,000 
23,800 



10,000 



Santi- 
ago. 



13.000 
7,000 



43,000 
16,000 



Tam- 
pa. 



To 

posts 

land or- 

I gani 

zations 

in the 

field. 



18,000, 146.336 

33, 9(H) 120,039 

m) 14.304 

9, 4()4| 39, 989 

9,7541 40,889 



31,093 

79,t)00| 184,984 
10,100 33.140 
6,1001 19. .593 
, 103.671 



Total. 



18,200 



1.000 
1,000 

'3,"6o6 



5.a)o 

50(J 
.500 



1,000 
500 

2,000 



400 
500 



2,000 
4,000 
3.000 
7,000 



300 
4.50 



300 



9,095 
11 
701 

"i,'i63 



400 
500 
300 
800 



300 
400 



200 
300 
400 



1,000 



7,450 
5,000 



30,000 



401 
15,000 



12,0001 21.7(58 388, a56 

' 33,700 13,501 

33,658 

31,9001 95.491 

..I 10,361j 

I 6.;383! 

45.000, 104.697 



3,000. 
23,000 



12.000' 

■ i 
15,500j 

"32,'566 

60,000 



52. .500 184,513 



7,000 



66,083 



3.H9 7(i;i 

■w..\:s, 
17,:io4 
.59,0it9 

59,693 

104,. 598 

ti(K).;m 

115,664 
3:!, 713 
l();j.471 

496. 196 
47.301 
:iT. :r)7 

:j:)7.i;7ii 
13, if.l 
15.3^{ 

3;)9. 497 

553,673 



48,949 6(),!»98 

185,842 516, 4;W 

6.211: 9,211 



156,000 516.9981,174.872 

J 40.973 .51.473 

71.752 133,059 



1,000 953 
19,700l 110,393 

3,500 33,138 



37.500 
16,(10(), 
l.OOOi 
I.JJOO 



350 



89,000 



1.91X1! 
3,3(KI 



1,200 
10,000 



100 
500 



235 

5,000 

50 



3,000 

j 

300i 
2,600;. 

1,(K)0' 
350 

oOOi 



47.40:} 
331.519 

4G,(526 

575. (;73 
.57.891 

2li,Ki(i 

37,9(M) 

18.973 

16,947 

428 

551 

9.><9 

6^.013 

til5 

3(»,;}41 

39.684 

1S.!MI3 

:►■., i(i:i 

3S. 191 

.51.(L'4 

2(),078 

2;i,687 

3,(i00 



1,300' 11.574 18.714 

9.50' .5.3!t4 13,]!M; 

950 7,199 15,411 

I75I 1,235 3.8tl 



2.9()4 

50 

KKI 

25 

■13, 185 

200 

400 

1,800 

1,8(H) 

3, .500 

8,500, 

"i."248l 
1,618, 



78,9(S 

36.0S31 

11,355 

14.:J88 

8.2:37 

6, 6;J9 

330 

1:55 

110 

4.838 

315 

8,037 

11.924 

4,4(t' 

1.879 

3.616 

33,349 

8, (>!)!• 

9,009 



1,000 

"5(')4' 



3031 



3,003 13,205; 

1.55i 254| 

202' 976 

45,838 13s, (kJl 

3771 3.1191 

365 811 



44.67i; 
1,313 

4,:i:{3 

3;J3, 599 
7.726 
1,383 



7833— VOL l- 



-30 



AGG 



IXVI-.STICA'I'IoX OK CONniK'I' OF WAI>' WITH SPAIN. 



Exhibit E. 
Public animals, wagons, harness, and other supplies necessary for camp life. 



5. On hand and available April 1, 1808 

5. Pnrc'haspd since April !, 1898 

(. Availablt^ April], iNltS 

8. Purchased by August :il, 1898 _[ 

Total available April 1 , 1898, and purchased 

by August 31, 1898... ....j 

On hand at depots August 31, 1898 

8 Number issued by August 31, 1898 



700 
4.934 



j, 730 



ir,o 



26 

3,980 



200 



6,120 
10,743 



16,863 
135 



10.608 



500 
2, .551 



3,051 
2,551 



u 




o 




<M 


m 




<s> 


0) aj 




u:a 





OS ; A 



1,.500 



1,500 



1,500 



615 
615 
615 



7. Available April 1 , 1898 

8. Purchased by August 31, 1898 . 



Total available April 1 , 1898. and purchased 

Ijy August 31, 1898.. 

On hand at depots August 31, 1898 



8. Number is.sued by August 31, 1898. 



32 



32 



32 



D 0) 






81 
1, 137 



1,218 



1, 137 



1,800 221 
17,515 2.167 



19,315 



17,513 



2,388 
630 



1,537 



to ■ 

^^ 
a 



500 



500 



500 



bfi 



(In ffi 



.... 4,963 
40 28,012 



40 



40 



32,975 
6,341 



23,387 



401 



400 



.592 
604 



1,196 

487 



390 



7. Available April 1, 1898 

8. Purchased by August 31, 1898 

Total available April 1, 1898, and purchased 

by August 31, 1898 _ 

On hand at depots Augu.st 31, 1898 

8. Number issued by August 31, 1898 



.500 
109 



609 
102 



140 



3,605 



3,605 



3,605 



53 






8 500 



.500 
56 



8 444 



a o 



96 



1.55 
45 



29 



an 



401 



401 

1 



400 



.1^ 6B 



224 



224 

2 



323 



Respectfully submitted. 



C. P. Miller, 
Colonel, (Quartermaster's Department. 



KEPLY OF (,jrARTEI{.MASI'r:ii-<;i;NKRAL. 467 

EXHUUT F. 

[Confidential.] 

Washington, March 2/^, 1S9S. 
Depot Quartermaster, New York City. 

Sir: I desire that you will at once (luietly consult witli the proper representatives 
of the various lines of steamers doinj^- coast-line trade from New York to Key 
West, Havana, and intermediate points, with a view of ascertaining what num- 
ber of vessels, their ca])acity in passengers and tonnage, tliey could supply upon 
short notice, should it become necessary, in an emergency, to call them into service, 
and on what jirobable rates, either per day, per trip, or per ton. 

This information is desired in order that tlie Quartermaster-General may be 
prepared should any quick demand be made of him for any such service. It is 
desired tliat this should be kept as an official secret and not given to the public. 

Among the lines which I would suggest are the Mallory, Merchants and Miners', 
Miami, New York and Cul)a, New York and Texas, Ocean Steamship Company of 
Savannah, Old Dominion, Plant Steamship Lines, and any others that you may 
deem proper. Only vessels sailing under our flag to be considered. 
Respectfully, 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 
Please reply as early as possible. 



[Confidential.] 

War Department, 
General Depot of Quartermaster's Department, 

Army Building, Whitehall Street, 

Neto York City, March 29, 1898. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, 

Waaliingtnn. D. C. 
General: Referring to your confidential letter of the 34th instant, I have the 
honor to forward herewith an abstract of vessels in the coast-line trade, giving as 
far as obtainable at this time the information asked for in your communication. 

When the additional information promised from some of these lines, as noted 
on the abstract, is received, it will be immediately forwarded to you. 

I would say for the information of the Quartermaster-General that it was stated 
here by a member of the naval board on auxiliary cruisers that the Navy has 
absolute option on the boats of the following-named lines: Morgan Line: New 
York and Cuba Mail (Ward Line) ; New York and Texas Steamship Company 
(Mallory Line) ; Clyde Line: Old Dominion Steamship Company (on some vessels) ; 
Merchants and Miners" Line (Baltimore). 

No report has been obtained from the Merchants and Miners' Line, as the head- 
quarters of the company is in Baltimore, and there is no officer here witli authoiit 
to act in a matter of this kind. 

The New York and Cuba Line has made no report, and has stated that the infor- 
mation desired would be communicated to you by a representative in person or 
by letter. 

Very respectfully, A. S, Kimball, 

Deputy Quartermaster, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaster. 



46<S IXVESTIGATION OF COSDVCT OF WAK AVITIl SPAIN. 

(1) Exhibit G. 

May 2, 1898. 
Colonel Humphrey, 

Quartermaster, Tampa Bay Hotel, Tampa. Fla.: 

Your telegram yesterday received. Following are the names of vessels char- 
tered by this department and their reported carrying capacity, respectively: 
Florida, one thousand men, one hundred animals, three hundred tons freight; Oli- 
vette, six hundred men, forty animals, three hundred and fifty tons freight; D. H. 
Miller, nine hundred men, two hundred animals, one thousand tons freight; Berk- 
shire, nine hundred men, two hundred animals, one thousand tons freight; Alle- 
gheny, nine hundred men, two hundred animals, one thousand tons freight; Comal, 
one thousand men, one hundred animals, one thousand tons freight; Alamo, one 
thousand men, one hundred animals, one thousand tons freight. Three other 
vessels, named Gussie. Whitney, and Fanita, have been chartered, but capacity 
not yet definitely ascertained. Gussie and Whitney are fitted for carrying four 
hundred animals each, provided they can carry water sufficient; otherwise the 
animals maj' have to be distributed on other vessels where there is proper venti- 
lation and better water supply. 

The carrying capacity mentioned here for these vessels was arranged simply to 
see that we have sufficient capacity for five thousand men. one thousand animals, 
and three thousand tons freight. The distribution or loading of the ships will have 
to be arranged according to their facilities for carrying men and animals. Some of 
the vessels, where animals have to be put between decks, may not have enough 
ventilation; hence the Whitney and Gussie were sent because they had good ven- 
tilation and were fitted for the purpose of carrying stock. 

I learn that the water at Tampa, after being stored on vessels, is liable to spoil, 
and it is suggested that the water be secured from tanks up the railroad that is 
pumped from deep wells. Please look into this matter and inform Major Pope. 

The Faiiita will not arrive until later than May fourth, and she is not intended, 
nor is the Olivette, for General Shaffer's expedition. The Olivette is for special 
service, and the Fanita will be held as a reserve boat. Alamo is loaded with pon- 
toon-train stores, and so forth. Will stop at Key West, from where General 
Shaf ter will give her directions. 

Quartermaster-General. 



May 4, 1898. 
Maj. J. W. Pope, 

Quartermaster, U. S. Army, Tampa, Fla. 
Sik: Referring to the subject of vessels chartered by this Department to be 
"sed as transports for troops and supplies, it is desired to secure information in 
^elation to each of these vessels as to the amount of men and animals, with cargo, 
they will carry conveniently. To this end, by direction of the Quartermaster- 
General, you will please report your idea of the extreme carrymg capacity of each 
of the ships, so that this office can be informed of the number of ships that will 
be necessary to move a given number of men, animals, and freight. This office 
had few ships to choose from, and information is desired whether ample room 
for the command was obtained, or whether more men, animals, and freight could 
have been carried. The water question was a serious one; please give informa- 
tion on that po:nt, as to sufficiency. 

Respectfully, Chas. Bird, 

Major and Quartermaster, U. S. Army, 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTEli-GEXERAL. 4()9 

[Telegram.] 

Tampa Bay Hotel, 

Tampa, Fla., May :>, IS'.iS. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C: 

Referring to u letter of May 4 to Major Pope, requirini; him to report the 
extreme carrying capacity of the ships chartered, would say that they will not be 
loaded to carry the number certified by the agents at time of charter. Aboard 
examined all the vessels yesterday jind its report I will send you later in the day. 
Believe the water question for ships will come out all right. Major Pope is 
making additional casks, and I have directed that all the water taken aboard 
should be distilled water or the piire fresh water from St. Petersburg across the 
bay. This latter is what is used by the Navy, the Plant vessels, etc. The Floi-hht 
and Olivette have condensing apparatus on board. General Shaffer desires bunks 
thre;> tiers high placed in the vessels. By this means more men can be carried 
comfortably than otherwise. 

10.43 a. m. Humphrey. 



Office of Chief Quartermaster, United States Forces, 

Tampa, Fla., May 0, 1S96'. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, 

Washington, D. C 
General: Your letter of May 4 to Major Pope, requesting information in rela- 
tion to each of the vessels chartered— as to the number of men and animals, with 
cargo, they will carry conveniently— was referred to me May 7, and yesterday a 
board, consisting of Colonel Lawton, Captain Dorst. and Major Jacobs, examined 
the vessels with reference to the matter, and reports as follows: 

"Florida will carry two troops of cavalry and 150 men more: Comal, two regi- 
ments of infantry and three batteries of artillery; Alamo, engineer outfit and two 
regiments of infantry: Allegheny, six batteriesof artillery, one regimentof infantry, 
and 1.50 men more; Berkshire, five troops of cavalry and one regiment of infantry: 
Z). H. Miller, one regiment of infantry and 800 mules or 300 horses, and Whitney, 

three troops of cavalry. 

summary. 

Moil. 

Cavalry, 10 troops; estimated strength. .54 men each - - • 540 

Artillery, 8 batteries: estimated strength, 75 men each 600 

Infantry. 7 regiments; estimated strength 3, 500 

Engineer battalion; estimated strength - 1^<^ 

Total enlisted strength •l''^'*^ 

Olivette, for headiiuarters, complete, and Gnssie, with Captain Dorst. 

The ships have very limited water-closet accommodations, and no facilities at 
present for making coffee or cooking for the men. 

Additional water-closets and bunks three tiers high are now l)eing put in. and 
facilities for making coffee and cooking are being added. 

On the advice of Captain McKay, I directed Major Pope to furnish an a.lditional 
100 water casks, same pattern as directed by you. 

Additional wind sails have been made to add to the comfort of the men, and 
slings are being manufactured to cast the animals overboard where neces.sary. 

General Shaffer to-day requested the Secretary of War to authorize the charter 
of the Mallory Line steamer Mitrens, which should be at Key West to-day. 
Authority was granted, and I have telegraphed the vessel to come up here fur 
charter. 

1 believe the above covers the information you desire. 

Very respectfullv, your obedient servant, 

•^ ^ C. F. Humphrey 

Deputy (^aarlernuister-General, U. 6'. Army, Chief Quartermaster. 



470 INVKSTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

May 9, 1898. 
Cn'onel KiMBALL, 

Depot Quartermaster, New York City: 
Arrangements are being made to charter a number of ships from the Ward Line 
and also from the Mallory Line, they to be prei^ared to sail as soon as they can be 
coaled. Names of vessels and instructions as to destination will be wired you 
later. You will see that each of the ships is supplied with at least twenty days' 
coal in bunkers. If an additional su])plj' of coal can be stowed on vessels, to be 
used up on the trip down, so that all freight space will be clear, you will do so. 
You will also arrange to send a sufficient number of ship cai'penters on each one 
of these vessels, together with the necessary lumber to provide bunks three tiers 
high, for the use of the men, in space allotted for carrying them, and also for 
l)uilding pens and nailing cleats on the floor or making grating if cleats are not 
allowed to be nailed on the floors, in space where the animals are to be carried. 
These men will be returned from Tampa to New York by rail, unless one of the 
transports should be returning to New York to carry them. Care should be taken 
to have a reliable man put in charge of these ship carpenters so that the work can 
be done while the ship is coaling and on its way down. 

LuDiNGTON, Q:aartermaster-General. 



May 9, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, 

Depot Qnarterniaster. New YorJc City: 
As per telegram this date regarding charter of ships, would state that we have 
chartered to-day — Ward Line: Vigilaticia. Seguranca, Yucatan, Seneca, Saratoga, 
Santiago. City of Waalnngtoit; Mallory Line: Concho, Rio Grande, Leo na: all of 
which are now in New York. These ships to be coaled as heretofore instructed, 
and to be prepared for shipment of troops by erecting temporary bunks, prepared 
for shipment of horses, and dispatched with as little delay as possible, each vessel, 
unless further instructed, to touch at Key West for instructions. 

Please acknowledge receipt and repeat names of vessels, that I may know that 
you have received them properly. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



[Telegram.] 

May 11, 1898. 
Colonel Scully, 

1201 Prytania Street, New Orleans, La. : 
Notify Mr. Hutchinson and the Mecheca Line that Government accepts their 
offer for charter of the Arkansas and Morgan at $400 per day each, and the 
Breaku-ater, $340 per day. Stillwater, $325 per day, minimum, thirty days, com- 
panies assuming marine risk, furnishing and feeding crew and running supplies, 
G-overnment assuming war risk and supplying coal and water. These charters 
will date from noon. May 13. You are authorized to at once fit them up as sug- 
gested in your telegram of this date for carrying a regiment of cavalry with 
their transportation, forage, etc. You are authorized to employ carpenters 
and furnish lumber for bunks and pens for animals, also to procure as many 
water casks or tanks as you think necessary to furnish an ample supply of water. 
The water question is one of great importance and should be given careful atten- 
tion, so that there can be no possible complaint as to lack of water. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



REPtA- OF (H'AiniCkMASTEU-GENERAL. 471 

June 14. 1898. 
General Miles, Tampa. FJa.: 

Your telegram exin-essing concern as to fitting up transports, and desiring that 
they should be supplied with condensers, arrangements for forcing fresh air to 
lower deck, and with ample life-preservers, and hammocks instead of wooden 
berths, received. If vessels after being chartered in New York are allowed suffi- 
cient time to fit up with condensers and other arrangements as suggested by you, 
it is thought it could be done, but it takes time, even if work is pushed night and 
day. Therefore, if vessels are delayed it is to be understood that they are being 
delayed in order that they may be proj^erly equipped for transports. 

Could not the hammocks in the hands of the men be utilized on board ship ? 
Twelve thousand have been sent to Tampa and 5,000 are on the way. 
Major Summerhayes, who is fitting up ships in New York, reports that with 
hammocks the shii:)s will not be able to carry nearly as many men as without 
them. Do you think it would be possible to swing these hammocks over each 
other two or three tiers high ? The trouble in iron ships would be to secure the 
rails to which to attach the hammocks. 

Report from Colonel Scully that the Clearwater is not at present available for 
Government service. 

Shall the four shij^s now at Feniandina be sent elsewhere to fit them up as you 

say? The Louisiana is already fitted for animals. The Gate City and City of 

Macon have had nothing done to them. These facts were reported to Colonel 

Humphrey as soon as vessels were chartered. The two ships at Mobile and one at 

New Orleans are already fitted. If you desire them changed please give 

instructions. 

LuDlNGTON, QuartermaHter-Oeneral. 



June 14, 1898. 
Colonel Scully, Quartermaster, New Orleans, La.: 

General Miles wires me as follows: 

"The steamers here are not built for troopships, but for carrying freight, and 
are not properly ventilated. Many complaints are made as to the condition of the 
men. I believe that instead of putting wooden bunks in it would be better to put 
framework and supply the men with hammocks, which would he much cooler. 
The men would be able to hang their hammocks at night and put them away in 
daytime. In some of the ships they have knocked down the bunks on account of 
the heat and the space they occupy. Please telegraph your (juartermasters to see 
if they can not arrange ships for hammocks and have hanunocks provided. Con- 
densers should be on every steamer, and also fans for forcing fresh air between 
lower decks." 

Report if his instructions regarding hammocks, condensers, and fans for forcing 
fresh air between decks could be provided at reasonable cost and little delay. 

LuDiNGTON. Quartermanter-Gcncral. 

Same to Major Pullman, quartermaster. Mobile, Ala.; Colonel Kimball, (luarter- 
master, New York City. 



June 14, 1898. 
Major Summerhayes, Qtiartermaster. New York City: 

Telegram just received from General Miles states that he is apprehensive regard- 
ing fitting of steamers for transports: that as long as the sea is smooth it would 
be all right, but if ports and hatches have to be closed he is fearful that there 
would be serious results. He says: 

'•Every transport should be provided with water condensers, with arrange- 
ments for forcing fresh air to the lower decks, with ample life-preservers, and 
hammocks instead of wooden berths." 



472 TNVESTIGATTON[ OF rONDTTPT OF WAK WITH SPAT^^ 

You will carry ont these instructions in fitting up the four ships that are now 
in New York, as far as possible. General Miles has been informed that it will 
take time to so fit these vessels, and if they are delayed, it will be because they 
could not be equipped sooner, even by working night and day. Wish you would 
report the plan you adopt for forcing air into the lower decks and arrangements 
of hammocks. Have asked General IMiles if the canvas hammocks now in the 
hands of the troops will do. Do you think you can arrange so that you can hang 
two or more directly over each other, and could men get into them easily? I wish 
you would answer me fully and very promptly as to the feasibility of carrying out 
General Miles "s instructions. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Mobile. Ala., June 14, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C: 

Yours this date conveying General Miles's suggestions ventilating troopships 
received. Ships fitted by me—Matteairan. Specialist, and Uu ioirist—are well venti- 
lated and comfortable: and, while utilizing all space, special thought was given 
to comfort to men in space and ventilation by funnels, wind sails, and air catches 
in portholes. General Schwati inspected Sjjecialist to-day and expressed complete 
commendation and satisfaction on above points. Hammocks could be arranged 
for, but would reduce carrying space for men from one to two thirds, as where we 
have three bunks now in tiers only one or two hammocks could be swung. Fans 
with necessary gearing and belts to work them from ship's engines would require 
gTeat space and expense in fitting them in. In my ships, ample air catchers in 
ports, funnels on deck, and wind sails over hatchways throw ample air drafts 
'tween decks when moving, but when moored at this season it is hot, and no remedy 
is applicable except reserving ample top-deck space for moving around sleeping- 
deck. All my ships above mentioned have condensers. SjMcialisf is finished. 
Unionist nearly so, and they are comfortably fitted and arranged as above 
described. No ship hammocks in this market. 

Pullman, Quartermaster. 



New York City, June 17. 1S98. 

Depot Quartermaster. Present. 

Sir : In reply to inclosed telegrams covering the same ground, one to you and 
the other to me (the latter to be returned after perusal) . I beg to report as follows : 
I am providing the four ships in port, the Arkadia. Catania, Lampasas, and 
Nueces, with one each of the "lightning"^ distilling apparatus, of which twelve 
were contracted for for the ships already to the front. I am providing stan- 
chions with hooks to hang hammocks on, same style as in the Navy, two high, 
and will ask you to please provide the hammocks so the ships may go south 
complete: and as these hammocks will have to remain aboard the ships. I have 
surveyed them for the purpose of locating fans to exhaust the foul air, and put in 
ventilators through which pure air will be drawn into the holds. I shall report 
the cost of them to-night. 

Your especial attention is respectfully invited to the British steamers of the 
class of the Manitoba, listed last night. They are all provided to i-eceive animals, 
and by reference to the sailing card attached to my report and communication with 
the general agents— the New York Shipping Company, 1 Broadway, this city- 
arrangements might be made to obtain one or more vessels of this kind at short 
notice. 

Very respectfully, j. w. Summerhayes, 

Major and Quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers. 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 473 

[First indorsoment.] 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City. June 17, 1898. 
Respectfully forwarded to the Qnartormaster-Qeneral , United States Army, 
with recommendation tliat the hammocks within referred to be authorized sup- 
plied from stock at this depot, it being understood that they are in every way 
suitable for the purpose, 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaster. 



June 18. 
Colonel Kimball, Quartermaster, Neu- York City: 

Referring to telephone communication from Major Summerhayes. regarding 
the lighting and ventilating and plotting condensers on ships, would say that the 
Secretary of War authorizes you to have a condenser put upon the Nueces, 
Lampasas, and the Arkadia. and also to arrange for fanning apparatus for these 
three ships, at or nea.r the prices named by Major Summerhayes. 

He desires that this work be done as rapidly as possible, and if there is to be 
too much delay, that you can arrange to have men go down on the ships and com- 
plete work as the ships travel. Wire me promptly on receipt of this telegram of 
the probable time that the ships will be delayed in New York to complete the work. 
Would it not be well, also, to have on these three ships atlditional water barrels 
or casks, so as to insure plenty of water. The Secretary does not feel warranted 
in having electric lights put upon these vessels, and Major Summerhayes must try 
and arrange for lighting with lanterns, which were authorized to be purchased. 
You are authorized, also, to supply a large number of small tin vessels, to be used 
in case men are seasick, on these and all ships hereafter fitted up. 

LuDiNGTON, Quarterrtiaster-Oeneral. 



June 18, 1898. 
Captain Bellinger, Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla.: 

The steamships Hudson, Si^ecialist, Unionist, Comanche. Louisiana. Gate City, 
City of Macon, and Catania have been ordered to report to you. These vessels, 
with the exception of the Catania, have not been fitted up for use of hammocks, 
nor have we been able to put fans or condensers upon them. You are authorized 
to make any alteration in the present fitting up that will give you ample supply 
of water and air for the benefit of either animals or troops that maybe carried on 
the vessels. Report to me on arrival of these ships their condition and if you are 
able to properly fit them up so that they will be comfortable for transport service. 
Consult regarding aii- space, water supply, and sanitary matters generally with 
Colonel O'Reilly, chief surgeon, Fourth Army Corps. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster- General. 



(2) Exhibit G. 
general instructions. 

[Telegram. ] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, May 9. 1S98. 
Colonel Kimbali,, Depot Quartermaster, New York City: 

Arrangements are being made to charter a number of ships from the Ward Line 
and also from the Mallory Line, they to be prepared to sail as soon fis they can be 



474 INVESTKiATlON OF CONDUCT OF WAiJ WITFT SPAIN. 

coaled. Names of vessels and instructions as to destination will be wired you 
later. You will see that each of the ships is supplied with at least twenty days' 
coal in bunkers. If an additional supply of coal can be stored on vessels, to be 
used on trip down, so that all freight space will be clear, you will do so. You will 
also arrange to send a sufficient number of shij} carpenters to each one of these 
vessels, together with the necessary lumber, to provide bunks three tiers high for 
the use of the men in space allotted for carrying them; and also for building pens 
and nailing cleats on the floor or making grating if cleats are not allowed to be 
nailed on the floors in space where the animals are to be carried. These men will 
be returned from Tampa to New York by rail, imless one of the transports should 
be returned l-o New York to carry them. Care should be taken to have a reliable 
man put in charge of these ship carpenters, so that the work can be done while 
the ship is coaling and on its way down. 

LuDiNGTON, (Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Siimmerhayes, May 10, 1898.) 



VIGILANCIA, SEGURANCA, YUCATAN, SENECA, SARATOGA, SANTIAGO, CITY OF 
WASHINGTON; CONCHO, RIO GRANDE, LEONA. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Waxhiiigtoii, May 0. 1S9S. 
As per telegram of this date regarding charter of sliips, would state that we 
have chartered to-day: Ward Line — Vigilancia. Segiiranca, Yucatan, Seneca, 
Saratoga, Santiago, City of Wa-sliington: Mallory Line — Concho, Rio Grande, 
Leona, all of which are now in New York. These ships to be coaled as heretofore 
instructed, and to be prepared for shipment of troops by erecting temporary 
bunks, prepared for shipment of horses, and dispatched with as little delay as 
possible, each vessel, unles further instructed, to touch at Key West for instruc- 
tions. Please acknowledge receipt and repeat names of vessels, that I may know 
you have received them properly. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, May 11, 1898. 



STEAMERS CHEROKEE AND IROQUOIS. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, May 10, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York City: 

We chartered to-day the Cherokee and Iroquois, Clyde Line. Please have them 
prepared at once for shipment to Key West, there to receive instructions. Have 
them coaled so that when they arrive there they will have at least twenty days' 
coal for each vessel aboard, and also have cari:)enters with lumber necessary to 
fit these ships to carry as many men and animals as possible. Same instructions 
apply to them as were sent you yesterday regarding other vessels. 

LUDINGTON , Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, May 12, 1898.) 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTKIi-CJENERAL. 475 

VIGILANCIA, SEGURANCA, SARATOGA, SANTIAGO, YUCATAN, SENECA, CITY OF WASH- 
INGTON; CONCHO, RIO GRANDE, AND LEONA; CHEROKEE AND IROQUOIS. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, May 11, ISOS. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York City: 

The following vessels chartered to sail immediately to Key West: Ward Line — 
steamers Vigilancia, Seguranca, Saratoga, Santiago, Yucatan, Seneca, and City 
of Washington, chartered May 10, noon; Mallory Line— Co«c/io, Rio Orande, and 
Leona, chartered May 10, noon; Clyde Line — Cherokee and Iroquois, chartered 
May 11, noon. Owners assume marine risk and man and victual vessels. Gov- 
ernment assumes war risk and supplies coal and water. You will furnish these 
and advise captains of terms under which they sail. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, May 12, 1898.) 



GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS. 
[Telegram.] 

Washington, D.C. May 11, 1S9S. 

Col. A.S.Kimball, Army Building, New York: 

The Associated Press dispatches from Key West report scarcity of water at that 
place. This only confirms official dispatches received from General Shaffer, in 
which he asked the approval of Secretary of War for a contract for large amount 
of water at 2 cents per gallon. As there are a large number of horses going with 
'ixpeditiou, and number of troops arriving there is very large. Secretary of War 
directs that in the chartered ships leaving New York from this on they take all the 
water possible to cask and to carry. Acknowledge receipt and report action taken, 
at the same time giving an estimate of what is possible for you to send without any 
considerable delay of ships leaving. This is of first importance. 

10.30 p. m. 

H. C CoRBiN, Adjutant-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, May 13, 1898.) 



steamer CATANIA. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department. Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, June G, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Neic York City: 

Assistant Secretary of War has decided to take the Catania at a charter price of 
$G00 per day, provided the company cuts in four side ports and builds on the ship 
suitable accommodation in the way of staterooms and cabins for officers to be 
designated by you as necessary to fit the ship for transport service. You arc 
authorized to put up the standees for as many men as she can comfortably carry; 
and also to provide lavatories and urinals for the men. It is understood that the 
company is to remove from the ship the arrangement for the Klondike service. 
Mr. Tweedie agrees to have this done by Monday, and if not the charter is to be 
canceled. Due care must be taken that the water-carrying capacity of this ship is 
supplied with proper drinking water. Report the advisability of putting a con- 
denser on her and the cost of same. Acknowledge. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, .Tune 8, 1898.) 



47n JXVESTIGATIOX OF CONDUCT OF AVAR WITf! RPATN. 

STEAMSHIP CATAJJTA. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, June 10, IShS. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, Neio York City: 

It is not thought advisable to hamper the movement of the Catania with cement 
for Key West. Am awaiting report of Snmmerhayes, through you, when she will 
be ready for sea after having been fitted up with ample staterooms for officers and 
side ports cut to enable prompt loading. Understand she will be ready by Monday 

Ludington , (Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhaj^es, June 10, 1898.) 



steamship arkadia. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, June 11, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Qnartermaster, New York City: 

The Government has chartered the steamship Arkadia of the New York and 
Porto Rico Line, charter to commence Wednesday, the 15th instant, noon. The 
conniany are to cut in two side ports, one on either side, to enable loading up of 
animals and freight. Direct IMajor Snmmerhayes to have her at once fitted up 
with standees for troops and stalls for horses, if they can be carried. Have her 
fitted up largely for troops and some animals where they can be conveniently put. 
She already has on her 300 tons coal in bunkers, which you can take at $2.50 per 
ton, and place on board, if it can be conveniently stored, an additional supply. 
Report condition of drink-water supply on vessel and how soon the ship will be 
ready to go to sea. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to IVIajor Snmmerhayes, June 12, 1898.") 



STEAMERS NUECES, LAMPASAS, AND ARKADIA. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department. Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, June 13, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, Neio York City: 

Have chartered steamers Nueces and Lampasas of the Mallory Line. Have 
them fitted for troops and animals, complying with Army Regulations, which 
General Miles says has not been adhered to heretofore in fitting up the ships. 
Also have these vessels coaled with at least twenty days' coal after they arrive at 
destination in Gulf. Also see that they are amply supplied with water casks if 
they have not already accommodations for an ample supply of water. As these 
ships are liable to go to southern Cuba or Porto Rico, and carry animals, an 
ample supply of water should be provided for them. Acknowledge receipt and 
report when these ships will be ready to sail from New York; also when the 
ArkaiVia will be ready to sail, that instructions may be given you. Hold all of 
the ships in New York for sailing instructions. Mr. Mallory has been notified 
that the ships have been chartered, the date of charter to commence noon 14tb, 
to-morrow. Please furnish valuation of the Nueces and Lampasas for entry into 
charter. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Snmmerhayes, June 13, 1898.) 



REPLY Ol' QUAKTKKMASrER-CJKNERAL. 477 

HOSPITAL SHIP RELIEF. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

WdsJivKjtoii, D. C, June 1/f. 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Quartermaster, Neio Yoi-k City: 

You are authorized to make only such emergency purchases for additional 
naval, electrical, quartermaster's and signal supplies as may be absolutely nec- 
essary to properly equip the hospital ship Relief. This is reference to Major 
Torney's letter of June 13th. Requisitions in it that he states had not received 
attention were supplied on the 12th instant. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-Oeneral. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 14, 1898.) 



general instructions. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washiiigtoti, June 14, ISOS. 
Major Summerhayes, Qtiartei'master, New Yoi'k City: 

Telegram just received from General Miles states that he is apprehensive regard- 
ing fitting of steamers for transports; that as long as the sea is smooth it would 
be all right, but if ports and hatches have to be closed he is fearful that there 
would be serious results. He says: •' Every transport should be provided \\'ith 
water condensers, with arrangements for forcing fresh air to the lower decks, with 
ample life preservers, and hammocks instead of wooden berths." You will carry 
out these instructions in fitting up the four ships that are now in New York, as 
far as possible. General Miles has been informed that it will take time to so fit 
these vessels, and if they are delayed, it will be because they could not be eijuipped 
sooner, even by working night and day. Wish you would report the plan you 
adopt for forcing air into the lower decks and arrangements of hammocks. 
Have asked General Miles if the canvas hammocks now in the hands of the troops 
will do. Do you think that you can arrange so that you can hang two or more 
directly over each other, and could men get into them easily? 1 wish that you 
would answer me fully and very promptly as to the feasibility of carrying out 
General Miles's instructions. 

Ludington. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 14, 1898.) 



general instructions. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, June U, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Qnartpr)naster, New York: 

General Miles wires me as follows: "The steamers here are not built for troop 
ships, but for carrying freight, and are not properly ventilated. Many complaints 
are made as to the condition of the men. I believe that instead of putting wooden 
bunks in it would be better to put framework and supply the men with hanuiiocks, 
whicli would be much cooler. The men would be able to hang their hammocks 
at night and put them away in the daytime. In some of the ships they liave 
knocked down the bunks on account of the heat and the space they occupy. 
Please telegraph your quartermasters to see if they can not arrange ships for ham- 



■]:<S INVEsriGATIOX OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

mocks and have hammocks i)rovi(led. Condensers shoukl be on every steamer, 
and also fans for forcing fresh air between lower decks." Report if his instruc- 
tions regarding hammocks, condensers, and fans for forcing fresh air between 
lower decks could be provided at reasonable cost and little delay. 

LuDiNGTON, Qiiariermasfer-Geiiera]. 
(Report of Major Summerhayes of June 17, 1898, forwarded to Quartermaster- 
General June 17, 1898.) 



ALGIERS, f'HALMOTTE, KL MONTE. EL MAR, EL PASO, AND EXCELSIOR. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington. June 15, ISOS. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Qnarternia.ster, A^ew Yo7^k City: 

Colonel Scully, from New Orleans, i-eports that the Algiers, Chahaotte, FA Monte. 
El Mar. El Paso, and E.reelsior of the Morgan Line would make good transports 
for carrying troops in Cuban waters. Have them inspected if they are in New 
York, or as they arrive, and also any other foreign vessels that might be suitable 
for transport service. As General Miles wires that he wants cattle ships of the 
bilge-keel type, if any such are in New York and they do not draw too much 
water, you will report them, at the same time stating what will be necessary to 
fit them for transport service, including cabin accommodaticm for officers. Please 
give this matter prompt attention and rex>ort by wire if any such ships are now in 
New York and are being inspected. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 15, 1898.) 



NUECES, LAMPASAS, AND ARKADIA. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, June IS, 1S9S, 
Colonel Kimball, Quartermaster, New York: 

Referring to telephone communication from Major Summerhayes regarding the 
lighting and ventilating and putting condensers on ships would say that the 
Secretary of War authorizes you to have a condenser put on the Nueees, Lampasas, 
and the Arkadia: and also to arrange for fanning apparatus for these three ships 
at or near the prices named by Major Summerhayes. He desires that this work 
1)6 done as rapidly as possible, and if there is to be too much delay that you can 
arrange to have men go down on the ships and complete the work as the ships 
travel. Wire me promptly on receipt of this telegram of the probable time that 
the .ships will be delayed in New York to complete the work. Would it not be 
well, also, to have on these three ships additional water barrels or casks, so as to 
insure plenty of water. The Secretary does not feel warranted in having electric 
lights put upon these vessels, and Major Summerhayes must try and arrange for 
lighting with lanterns, which were authorized to be purchased. You are author- 
ized also to supply a large number of small tin vessels to be used in case men are 
seasick on these and all ships hereafter fitted up. 

LuDiNGTON, Qua7-termaster-General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York Citij. June 10. 1S9S. 
Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes for his information and 
guidance, and with reciuest that he will advise tliis office without delay as to the 



\ 



KEPLV OF (,>rAirrEI{.MASTF,l,'-(JENi:iiAl.. ITJ) 

liVMl)able time the ships will be delayed in New York to t-omplete the work; also 
111 reference to the additional casks reciuired. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartet-vmster-General, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaater. 



GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS— STEAMSHIP KIMON. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quarteumaster-General"s Office, 

WasJiinf/tov, June 10, IS'.iS. 
Colonel Kimball, QuartemuiHter, New York: 

Report promptly after inspection of foreign vessels that may have been named 
to you by this office and any that Major Summerhayes mav have found in addi- 
tion. Secretary of War desires descriptions of these vessels as fast as inspected. 

Commissary-general must have two large ships, drawing about 20 feet when 
loaded as we load them, ajjon which he wants to put refrigerators to carry about 
1,000 tons fresh beef each. No doubt Major Siimmerhayes can find such ships in 
New York. 

It is very important that these reports of foreign ships be sent in as fast as possible. 
Major Summerhayes, with the tug he is authorized to use, should be able to report 
on two or three sliips each day. He should report whether they are troopships or 
suitable for animals only. We need quite a number of cattle ships, bilge-keel 
type, for carrying horses, etc. ; also roomy vessels already fitted up for carrying 
steerage passengers which could carry troops. They should have ample ventila- 
tion and fresh- water capacity. 

Clyde line report that they have chartered a foreign ship, the Kimon, which it 
may be well to inspect and report upon. Make daily report by wire, stating 
charter price, and, if not willing to charter, lowest available purchase price direct 
from owners or agents, not ship brokers. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaater-Genend. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 19, 1898.) 



steamer PANAMA. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington. D. C, June 21, ISOS. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York City: 

The captured stedmer Panama purchased to-day. Now at pier 20, East River, 
You are directed to take possession of her at once and repoz-t her condition and 
what is necessary to fit her up for transport service. Communicate with Col. F. J. 
Meeker, if possible, who was instrumental in purchasing her for the Government. 

LuDiNUTUN, Quartermaater-Generul. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 23. 1898.) 



ARKADIA, NUECES, AND LAMPASAS. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, June ^2, ISOS. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York: 

Letter from Major Summerhayes referred to this office by you regarding elec- 
tric lights for the Arkadia, Nueces, and Lanqjasas received. Same has been .sub- 



480 INVE.STIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN, 

mitted to the Assistant Secretary of War, and before authority is given he desires 
to know whether, if electric plants are put aboard the ships, they will be the prop- 
ertj' of the Government and could be removed from the vessels after charter 
ceases; also, whether same holds true regarding condensers and the fans that are 
being put aboard the ships. Same letter mentions the fact that small tins are not 
considered suitable for seasick men, but that buckets should be put aboard. Gen- 
eral Miles suggests that they should have buckets on the decks as well as small 
tins with handles, that could be attached to the hammocks by a wire. The tins 
have already been authorized, and you are authorized to purchase sufficient num- 
ber of buckets for that purpose. 

(7.15 p. m.) LUDlNGTON, Quartemiaster-Geveral. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City, June 23, 1S9S. 
Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster. U. S. Volun- 
teers, for his information, with the request that he will take immediate steps to 
procure the necessary tins and buckets authorizetl within. 

A. S. Kimball, 

Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, Dejiot Quartermaster. 



nueces, lampasas, and arkadia. 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Waslrington, June 24, ISO], 

Depot Quartermaster, Neu- York City. 

Sir: In addition to putting in fans and condensers in the steamships Nuece.'^, 

Lampa.sa.'i, aud Arkadia, heretofore authorized, you are also authorized to put 

electric lights in those vessels, at an approximate cost of $3,000 each. 

Respectfully, 

M. I. Ludington, 

Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 25, 1898.) 



nueces, lampasas, and arkadia. 

War Department, QMartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, June 24, 1S98. 
Depot Quartermaster, New York City. 

Sir: In addition to pvitting in fans and condensors in the steamships Nueces. 
Lampasas, and Arkadia. heretofore atithorized. you are also authorized to put 
electric lights in those vessels, at an approximate cost of .$2,000 each. 

Respectfully, 

M. I. Ludington, 

Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City. June 25, ISUS. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes. quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, New York City, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Arrny, Depot Quartermaster. 



REPLY OF V»lAKrKK.MA8TEK-GKNi;KAL. 481 

LAMPASAS, NUECES, AND ARKADIA. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Watihington, D. C, June ~'5. 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball. Depot Quartermaster, Neiv York City. 

Your telegram, stating Laiin>asas and Nueces are ready to sail to-morrow and 
Arkadia Monday, received. Give sailing order to Lo/u^jft.so.s and Nueees to sail at 
once and report to Captain Bellinger at Port Tampa. Orders regarding the sail- 
ing of Arkadia to be wired as soon as we know whether it is necessary to send her 
to Newport News for subsistence stores. Acknowledge receipt and report date of 
sailing of these vessels. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartennaster-General. 

'^Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 26, 1898.) 



arkadia, nueces, and lampasas. 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, June 25, 1898. 
To the Depot Quartermaster, Neic York City. 

Sir: Referring to your indorsement of the 23d instant, forwarding letter of 
Major Summerhayes of same date, reporting that the Vance Electric Company 
are the lowest bidders for putting electric- light plants on the steamships Arkadia, 
•Nueces, and Lampasas, and that the additional cost for search lights for the 
Arkadia will be $300, you are respectfully informed, by direction of the Quarter- 
master-General, that the expenditure for search lights on these vessels will not be 
authorized. Authority for electric lights on the three vessels was mailed to you 
yesterday. 

Respectfully, Chas. Bird, 

Quartermaster, U. S. Aiiny. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City, June ~'S, IS'JS. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred toMaj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermiister, 
U. S. Volunteers, New York City, for his information. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Anny, Depot Quartermaster. 



PORT VICTOR AND OBDAM. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington. D. C, June J9, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball. Army Building, Neio York. 

We have purchased the ships Port Victor and Obdam. Please receive them and 
report when the Port Victor wUl be ready to turn over to the Commissary- 
General. Acknowledge receipt. ^ j * /-..,,<,^«i 

LuDiNGTON, Quartertnaster-Gejieral. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, June 29, 1898.) 
783.3— Yf)L 1 31 



4S2 JXVESTIGAriOX OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

MOHAWK, MISSISSIPPI, AND PORT VICTOR. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washiiigtoii, Jnlij J, ISfiS. 
Secretary of War directs me to inform yoii that the action of Major Summer- 
hayes regarding victnaling the steamships Moliairk and ]\Iississi2)2)i. in addi- 
tion to putting subsistence stores aboard of them, is approved. You are also 
authorized to purchase seven awnings for hatches for use on the Port Victor. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 5, 1898.) 



steamships MOHAWK AND MISSISSIPPI. 

War Department, Office of the Secretary, 

WasJiiiiyton, July 2, 1S9S. 
Hon. G. D. Meiklejohn, Assistant Secretary of War. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that the steamships Mohawk and Mississipjn, 
purchased frcm Mr. Barnard H. Baker, have been fitted up for cavalry ships; the 
ilTo/i air A- to carry 1,000 horses and 1,000 men; the Mississipjji 800 horses and 800 
men. The Mohawh is being coaled with 2.000 tons of coal in bunkers and hold, 
and the Mississippi with 1,600 tons. 

Eacn of the ships has a refrigerating capacity of 1.000 tons cubic measurement, 
and the beef contractor's inspector, Mr. Gardner, has favorably reported on the 
refrigeration and accepted the same under their contract with the Commissary- 
General. 

I have instructed Major Summerhayes to letter the Mohaick "No. 30. U. S. A. 
Q. M. Dept.." and, the 3Iississippi "No. 25. U. S. A., Q. M. Dept." Both ships can 
cross Tampa Bay on draft of 20 feet 6 inches with what coal and water they will 
have when they reach there, loaded to their full complement of cavalry and 
enough forage for the cavalry. 

Instructions should be issued to the officer under whose charge they will be 
loaded to use care in loading additional supplies and stores so as not to exceed the 
draft of 20 feet 6 inches. 

Yours, respectfully, Frank J. Hecker. 

War Department, July 2, 1S9S. 
The equipment of the steamships Mohawk and Mississip^n'. as herein indicated, 
is approved and the expense thereof will be paid by the Quartermaster's Depart- 
ment irom the appropriation for transportation of the Army. 

G. D. Meiklejohn, 
Assistant Secretary of War. 
True copy. 

Chas. Bird, 
Major and Quartermaster. United States Army. 



steamship port victor. 

War Department, Office of the Secretary, 

Washington, July 2, 1S9S. 
Hon. G. D. Meiklejohn, Assistant Secretary of War. 

Sir: I have the honor to report the steamship Port Victor, purchased Ly the Gov- 
ernment, has been found siiitable for a refrigerating ship and a >cepted by the beef 
contractor's inspector, Mr. Gardner. In addition to the fresh beef , she has been 



REPLY OF QrAiri'KIOIASI'KirGIONKK'AI-. 4S3 

equipped to carry 400 men and i:)0 horses and about 1,500 tons of supplies. It is 
expected that she will be read}- to sail from New York on July C. This is the ship 
it was decided this morning by the Quartermaster- Geum-al to take tiie Red Cross 
stores on. 
I have instructed Major Summerhayes to letter her ' * No. ;:i, U. S. A. . Q. M. Dept." 
Yours, respectfully, 

Frank ,1. Hixkkk. 

WAii Department, .J via ,.', /.s'.'/.v. 
The equipment of the steamship Port Victor, as herein indicated, is apprnved, 
and the expense thereof will be paid by the Quartermaster's Department from the 
appropriation for transportation of the Army. 

G. D. Meiklejoiin, 
Assistant Secretanj <>/ Wor. 

True copy. 

Chas. Bird, 
Major and Quartermaster, U. S. Aiiny. 



steamship obdam. 

War Department, Office of the Secretary, 

Washinyfou, July J, IS'jS. 
Hon. G. D. Meiklejohn, Assistant Secretary of War. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that on behalf of the Government jjosscssion has 
been taken of the steamship Obdani, purchased from the Holland- Amcricim Line. 

Major Summerhayes has had the ship carefully inspected as to her carrying 
capacity and is fitting her out to carry l.oOO men, 100 horses or mules; in addition 
to which she has a tonnage capacity for 1,500 tons of coal and 500 tons of supplies 
on a draft of 20 feet and 6 inches of water. Her maximum draft is 24 feet, and, 
of course, when loading to her maximum capacity she can carry much larger ton- 
nage of supplies than above stated. I have instriicted Major Summerhayes to pro- 
ceed with the necessary fitting up of her with all possible expedition, and am 
assured that she will be ready for service one week from to-day. July 8. 

I have further instructed him to letter her ' No. 30, U. S. A. , Q. M. Dept. " 

Yours, respectfully, 

Frank J, Hecker. 

War Department, July J, ISns. 
The equipment of the steamship Ohdam, as herein indicated, is approved, and 
the expense thereof will be paid l)y the Quartermaster's Deiuirtmeiit from tlie 
appropriation tor transportation of the Army. 

G. D. Meiki.e.ioiin, 
Assistant Secretary of War. 

True copy. 

Chas. BntD. 

Major and Quartermaster, U. S. Army. 



MOHAWK, MISSISSIPPI, OBDAM, AND PORT VICTOR. 

Washington. July ,;. ls:'S. 
Depot Quartermaster, Neir York City. 

Sir: Herewith are transmitted true copies of three letters of Mr. Frank J. 
Hecker, advising the War Department of the purchase of the steamships Mnlinirk. 
Mississijjpi, Obdam, and Port Victor; of their tittiug up and carrying capacity, 



481 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

and the names bj' which they are to be designated, wlilbji are as follows: The 
3Iohawk to be "No. 30, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" the Mississiiipi to be "No. 25, 
U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" the Ohdtnn to be "No. 30, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" the 
Port Victo)' to be "No. 2, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept."' A copy of the approval of the 
action of Mr. Hecker by the Assistant Secretary of War, with instructions that 
the expenses necessary for the fitting of the vessels will be paid from the appro- 
priation for transportation of the Army, Quartermaster's Department, is indorsed 
upon each copy of the letters. 

You will be governed accordingly. 

Respectfully, M. 1. Ludington, 

Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 

Copy to Major Summerhayes. 



STEAMSHIP OBDAM. 
[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 5, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, New York: 

You are authorized to put on the Oh<h(m gun racks for as inanj'men as the ship 
is fitted to carry. They should be strong and well secured, to prevent arms from 
becoming detached from the motion of the vessel. Arm racks should be fitted up 
on all of our own ships suitable to carry either a musket or a carbine. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Neu^ York City, July 0, 1SD8. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quarter- 
master, U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaster. 



steamships port victor and PANAMA. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington. July 5, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building. Netc York City: 

Assistant Secretary of War directs that you put an electric-light plant, with 
search light, new galley, range, and furniture, and paulin for covering hatches, 
on the Poii Victor, provided this work will not delay her sailing as soon as the 
refrigeration on the ship is completed. He also directs that you put on the No. 1 — 
Panama — a new range and awnings. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 8, 1898.) 



steamships mobile, ARKADIA, and GRANDE DUCHESSE. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 5, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball. Army Building, New York: 

Confirming telephone message, inform you that the steamship Mobile has arrived 
in New York. You are instructed to direct Major Summerhayes to proceed at 



REPT.Y OF (^rARTKI{MASTKIi'-(!i:NKK'AL. 4>^f) 

once to fit the vessel up for transport service same as the Mohairlr. A\\\)\myj; crew . 
victualing ship. Work to be pushed with utmost dispatch, in order to get her 
ready for sea at the earliest possible moment. Repoi-t^ progress day by day by 
wire. Give shipping orders for the Arkadia to sail to-morrow, not stojjpiiig at 
Norfolk Harbor for sul)sistence stores, biit to go direct to Port Tami)a. Have 
chartered the steamship (rraiidc DhcIicssc, now at Newport News, and she will 
take the commissary stores that wei'e to have gone by the Arkadia. 

LUDINGTON, (^>iaii-l('rni<isl('r-<lfiicr<il. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 6, 1808.) 



steamship roumania. 

War Department. Quartermaster-General's Office, 

WasJihujioii, Jid;/ 7, ISflS. 

Col. A. S. Kimball, 

Assistant Quartermaster-General, U. S. A., 

Army Bvilding, Neir York City. 

Sir: The Allen Line steamer Ronmaitia was pui-chased to-daj' for delivery in 
New York at the Allen Line Steamer Docks. Asst. Naval Constructor 8. F. Smitli 
reports: "That, before undertaking service as a troop ship, she should be fitted 
with increased galley and water-closets, and a system of forced veiitilalion sliould 
be put in, and can be done for about $3,000 and in ten days, which would greatly 
ameliorate the living conditions. An electric-light plant, for the "tween decks 
only, would be inexpensive, cooler than lamps, safer, and could bo installed in the 
same time. Summing iip, this ship is sufficiently strong in all respects, but the 
above changes are essential. The company's estimate of 1,14!) men on the main 
deck is far too large, as it is based on the cubical capacity of the deck and not on 
the possibility of swinging hammocks."' 

You are authorized to have these repairs done and to havt; the vessel inspected, 
and if there is anything else that is necessary to fit her up for transport service 
report the fact to this office. 

She is to be inspected by General Egan's refrigerator men, with a view of hav- 
ing refrigeration put on this ship for carrying beef. 

Please acknowledge receipt. 

Respectfully, M. L Ludinoton, 

Quartermasfcr-deneral U. S. Army. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Neir York. Jidy s. fS:>S. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Sunnn(>rhav<'s. (luartrrnjaster. 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance and all iicccssiiry iictimi 
required by within instructions. 

A. S. Kim HALL. 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. Depot Qnarfennaslrr. 



steamship BERLIN. 

[Telegrram. ] 

Washington, D.C. Jidys. ifnis. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, New York: 

The steamship Berlin has been bought by the Government. The purcha.se 
includes everything pertaining to the ship excepting the steward's supplies. Direct 
Major Summerhayes to tit the ship up at once for transport service for at least 



486 INVESTIGATION OF CONDITCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

2,000 men and enough horses for two regiments of infantry. If anything is 
needed in the way of ventilation, electric light, distilling iJlant, etc., you will at 
once notify this ofiSce by wire, so that they can be authorized. It is desired to get 
this ship out for service in four days. Acknowledge receipt and report action. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City, July S, ISOS. 

Official copy. Respectfully i-eferred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaster. 



STEAMSHIP CITY OF BERLIN. 
[ Telegram. ] 

Washington, D. C, July 9, 189S. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, New York: 

Referring to telegram of yesterday, stating that the Government had purchased 
the steamshij) City of Berlin, would state that the Commissioner of Navigation is 
objecting to shipping English crews. Major Summerhayes should ship Ameri- 
cans on this ship if possible: notify me if there will be any delay in getting the 
ship out if she has to ship an American crew. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Neir York City, July ,9, 1S9S. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. A., Depot Quartermaster. 



steamship roumania. 

[Telegram. ] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, July 10, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, New York City: 

Steamer Roumania will take emergency expedition to Santiago. Instruct 
Major Summei-hayes to ship crew. Put full supply water and 2,000 to 2,500 tons 
coal aboard. Dakin & Co., who organize expedition, will be ready to go to sea 
Wednesday evening. Of utmost importance there be no delay. Acknowledge 
receipt and report whether the crew and vessel will be readj' for sea by Wednes- 
day night or Thursday morning. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes July 10, 1898. ) 



STEAMER roumania. 
[Telegram.] 



Washington, D. C, July 10, 1898. 
Steamer Roumania will take emergency expe^dition to Santiago. Instruct Major 
Summerhayes to ship crew. Put full supply water and 2,000 to 2,500 tons coal 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 4^7 

aboard. Dakin & Co. , who organize expedition, will be ready to go to sea Wednos- 
day evening. Of utmost importance there be no delay. Acknowledge receipt 
and report whether the crew and vessel will be ready for sea by Wednesday night 
or Thursday morning. 

LUDIXGTON, Qnnrtrj'mastpr-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes July 11, for information and attention.) 



STEAMSHIP BERLIN. 

[Telegram.! 

Washington, D. C. July lo, isns. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Netv York City: 

The Assistant Secretary of War authorizes expenditure of so much of $6,000 as 
you find necessary lor construction of ventilating plant on the steamship Berlin. 
Her number will be 31 and the Roumctuia 27. You will have these numbers, 
together with the adopted letters, substituted for their names. 

LuDiNGTON, Quarteriiiaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhaj-es July 11, for information and action.) 



[Telegi-am.] 

Washington, D. C, July 11, IS9S 
Colonel Kimball. Army Building, Neu- York: 

Confirming telephone message of this date, you are authorized to expend as 
much as necessary of ST. 000, instead of §6,000 authorized in telegram 10th, for 
fitting up ventilating plant for the steamship Berlin; also that the Panama is to 
be turned over to D. Van Aken & Co.. to take emergency expedition to Santiago, 
instead of the Roumania, designated to you yesterday. The Roumania will be 
fitted up for transport service. Report by wire to this office what will be neces- 
sary to fit with ventilators, etc.. the Roumania, so that it can be authorized. 
Desire to get her out as rapidly as possible. Acknowledge receipt and report if 
the exchange of the Panama to do the work designated for the Roumania is under- 
stood, and when you think the Panama will get away. 

Ludinoton, Quartermaster-Ocnerah 

11.25 p. m. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Ken- York City. Jnly 1 .\ 1S9S. 
OflBcial copy. Respectfully refen-ed to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes. (luartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. KiMBALT-, 

Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. A.. Depot Qnartcrvianler. 



STEAMERS MICHIGAN AND MASSACHUSETTS. 
[Telegram.] 

Washington, July n. isns. 
Colonel KiMBALL.'^rnfy Building. New Yoi-k: 

Am informed that the steamships ^fichigan and Ma.'>sachn.tefts have arrived in 
New York. Direct Major Summerhayes to have them fitted up same as Nos. 20 
and 21. They will be designated. Michigan, No. 26, and Mas.sachu.'iett.s, No. 22. 



488 INVESTKtATION oi.^ conduct of war with SPAIN. 

Have Major Summerhayes report what these vessels need in the way of fitting a- 
to ventilation, etc., so that they can be authorized, and report when they will bt 
ready to sail. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Smnmerhayes Jnly 11, 1898.) 



MOBILE. MASSACHUSETTS, MANITOBA, MINNEWASKA, MICHIGAN, ROUMANIA, AND 

BERLIN. 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, July 1.), ISOS. 
Depot Quartermaster, Xeu- York City. 

Sir: The War Department has authorized the following-named steamships to 
be fitted up for army-transport service, the expenses thereof to be paid from the 
appropriation of the Quartermaster "s Department for transportation of the army, 
viz: Mobile, "No. 21, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;"' Massachusetts, "No. 22, U. S. A., 
Q. M. Dept.;" Manitoba. "No. 23, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" Minneu-aska, "No. 24, 
U. S. A.. Q. M. Dept.;' Michigan, "No. 26, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" Eoumania, 
"No. 27, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" Berlin, "No. 31, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept."' 

You are also authorized to hire the officers and crews required for the proper 
manning of purchased ships and for their subsistence when not otherwise pro- 
vided for, as recommended in your indorsement of July 11. 1898. 

Authority for putting in electric lighting, distilling, and ventilating plants, or 
any special improvements upon any of above-named vessels will be granted only 
upon special application therefor, with full information as to cost. etc. 
Respectfully, 

M. I. Ludington, 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 

New York Depot, July 15, 1898. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball. 
Deputy Quartermaster-General. U. S. A., Depot Quartermaster. 



mobile, massachusetts. manitoba, minnewaska, michigan, routhania, berlin. 

War Department. Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Wasldngton, July 13, 1S9S. 
Depot Quartermaster, New York City. 

Sir: The War Department has authorized the following-named steamships to be 
fitted up for army transport service, the expenses thereof to be paid from the 
appropriation of the Quartermaster's Department for transportation of the Army, 
viz: Mobile, "No. 21, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" Massachusetts, "No. 22, U. S. A., 
Q. M. Dept.;" Manitoba. "No. 23, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.:" Minnewaska, "No. 24, 
U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.;" Michigan, "No. 26. U. S. A.. Q. M. Dept.:" Roumania, 
"No. 27, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept.:" Berlin, "No. 31, U. S. A., Q. M. Dept." 

You are also authorized to hire the officers and crews required for the proper 
manning of piirchased ships, and for their subsistence when not otherwise pro- 
vided for, as recommended in your indorsement of July 11, 1898. 

Authority for putting in electric lighting, distilling, and ventilating plants, or 
any special improvements, upon any of above-named vessels will be granted only 
upon special application therefor, with full information as to cost, etc. 
Respectfully, 

M. I. Ludington, 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 1.5, 1898." 



REPLY OV^ (jrAKTERMASTEU-GEXEKAL. 4X0 

STEAMERS OLIVETTE AND CITY OF WASHINQTON. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General"s Office, 

Washington, D. C, July 16, 189S. 
Major Summerhayes, Army Building, Neir York City: 

Referring to telephone conversation this morning regarding damage done to 
Olircttc by collision with City of ]Va>ihingto)i, desire that you have her examined 
and report extent of damage, probable cost of repair, and if it is necessary to haul 
her off at this time to have the repairs done. At the time of the damage the Gov- 
ernment was assuming marine risk. Since July 1 the company assumes marine 
risk. They might not be willing to allow her to continue in service in lier present 
condition, they assuming marine risk. Consult with the company and, if pos- 
sible, have one of their representatives go with you and examine^ the Olinlfc, so 
that you together can decide upon what is best to be done. Do not wish to have 
steamer delayed any longer than possible, as she may be needed for important 
work in the near future. 

Ludington, QuarterniuMer-General. 



steamer olivette. 



War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, July is, 1S9S. 

Col. A. S. Kimball, 

Deputy Quartermaster-General. U. S. A., New York City. 

Sir: Confirming telephone message of this morning, you are. by direction of the 

Secretary of War, authorized to have repairs done to the steamer Olivette which 

are made necessary on account of damage done to her by her fouling the City of 

Washi)igion, and that incurred when taking on water from the water transport 

while lying along.side of her in the roadstead off Santiago. Major Summerhayes 

indicated that it would cost from .'?3,000 to s4.0()0 to have these repairs made. You 

are authorized to use as much of .^4,000 as you find necessary to put the vessel in 

the same condition that she was prior to the accident. Report definite amount 

expended on the Olivette. 

Respectfully, ,,.,., 

M. I. Ludington, 

Quartermaster-General, {\ S. Army. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes. July 19, 1898, for his information.) 



STEAMERS OLIVETTE, CITY OF WASHINGTON, AND SENECA. 
[Telegram.] 

WAsnmciTO^, D. C. July IS. isns. 

Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Neiv York: 

Most of the ships that have arrived from Santiago with sick and wounded have 
on them the camp equipage and officers' luggage belonging to the commands that 
were shipped on them from Tampa to Santiago. You have in New York the 
Olivette, City of Washington, and Seneea, now ordered from Fortress Monroe to 
New York. ' Transfer to the Olivette all of the camp equipage and officer's luggage 
that you have on the City of Washington and the Seneea. together Avith the guard 
pertaining to these supplies. You are authorized to place upon the Olivette such 
ventilating apparatus and additional ice boxes as Dr. Appel will designate to you. 
The steam launch will not be provided. Acknowledge receipt nad report action. 

8.20 p. m. Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes. July lH. IS'.ts.) 



490 TNVESTIGA'l'ION <)V CONDirT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
TRANSPORTS MINNEWASKA AND MANITOBA. 

[Telegram. ] 

"Washington, D. C, July 23. 1S98. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building. Netr York: 

You report Minneicaska, No. 34, arrived New York. Have her thoroughly 
examined and fitted up for transport service under general luthority alreadj- fur- 
nished you. If she needs any additional fittings in the way of condenser, venti- 
lating apparatus, electric lights, etc., let me know cost, so that matter maybe 
submitted to Secretary for approval. It is earnestly desired that both the Mani- 
toba and Miniiewaska, now in your hands, be put in thorough condition for serv- 
ice in the way of repairs — additional parts to machinery wliere necessary, extra 
grate bars, hammocks for each man the ships can carrj', and, in short, made so 
complete as a transport that when thej' arrive at point where shipments are to be 
made no complaint will be reported as their not being complete. Have the old 
wooden standees on the Seneca and other chartered ships that arrive in New York, 
where ventilation is not good, taken down, and arrange for hammocks, placing 
hammocks on board of each of these vessels for the number of men they are made 
to carry. Hereafter in making report that vessel is ready for service, I desire 
that you include in that report the condition of machinerj-. including spare parts, 
extra grate bars; also condition as to ventilation, coal, and water. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhays for his information and guidance; also to Captain 
Mason, July 23, 1898.) 



steamer senega. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 24. 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Neto York City: 

Confirming telephone message from Colonel Bird, the Seneca, after being coaled, 
is to leave noon2oth with all dispatch and report to Major Wilson, quartermaster 
at Newport News, to join expedition going to Porto Rico: also that you are to put 
lighter alongside of her and take oflf all camp equipage and officers' luggage 
belonging to the command that originally sailed on the Seneca from Port Tampa 
to Santiago, same to be stored on your dock under proper guard and to be reloaded 
on a vessel designated later, that will take it, together with whatever other equip- 
age may be on incoming vessels and that now at Fortress Monroe taken from 
Breakwater, and deliver it to Colonel Humphrey, at Santiago. Acknowledge 
receipt and report hour of sailing of Seneca. Employ ample number of men to 
unload Seneca, so as not to delay her sailing at 12 noon to-morrow. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Neu- York City, Jidy 25, 1898. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to IMaj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermas- 
ter. United States Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball. 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, V. S. Aiiny, Depot Quartermaster. 



REPLY OF (,»T\M;TF,I.'M\SPKH-GF,XERAL. 401 

MAWITOBA AND MINNEWASKA. 
[Telegram. ] 

Washington, D.C, July 25, 1898. 
Depot Quartermaster, New York: 

The necessity for an ample supply of forage at Porto Rico and Santiago is 
urgent. Arrangements should be made to keep sacked for shipment thirty days' 
oats for 1.000 animals, and on each vessel going from New York hay and oats for 
thirty days for the full capacit\^ of animals for that vessel be properly loaded. 
The JSIanitoha and Miuncuriska have each a capacity for 1,000 animals and should 
be loaded with thirty days' forage for that number. As ships arrive from Santi- 
ago have them inspected, and if they are fitted up for carrying animals, place on 
each thirty days' grain and hay for the number of animals they will carry. 
Report action in each case, so that I can advise officers where their forage can be 
found. On each ship going to Porto Rico with grain or subsistence stores 40 or 
50 large paulius. according to the quantity shipped, should be sent for protecting 
the stores, if necessary, on arrival at Porto Rico. 

LuDiNGTON , Quartermaster-General. 

Depot Quarti;rmaster's Office, 

Xcir York, Jiih/ ^'>, l.'if'S. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Ma.i . J. W. Summerhayes. (luartermaster. 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaster. 



CHESTER, MINNEWASKA, AND MANITOBA. 

[Telegram.] 

War Dep.\rtment, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, July 35, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Binldiiuj, Xcw York City: 

Have purchased this morning the steamship Chester, now in Ntnv York. Have 
her thoroughly examined as to capacity for troops and ventilation. Fit her up 
for as many hammocks as she can conveniently accommodate: also for about 50 
stalls to carry battalion animals. If she needs extra ventilation, report at ouce 
by wire, and you will be authorized to put it in. Have .just talked ^\ith Colonel 
Hecker, and he advised that the Minneiraska have ventilating plant put on to 
force air to the lower between decks, where troops are carried. State the time it 
will take for you to have the Manitoba, Minneu-aska.nna Chester put in condition 
for sailing, bearing in mind that the machinery is to be examined, spare parts 
furnished, extra grate bars supplied, ample water supplied, and forage, both hay 
and grain, for the number of ammals they are fitted up to carry: also that the 
chartered vessels that arrive be examined, and the standees, where the ventilation 
is not good, be taken out and hammocks substituted, and forage put alward for 
the number of animals they are fitted to carry, both hay and grain. Understand 
Miinitoha is having ventilation put on. Report by wire the cost of putting in 
ventilation in the Minncvaska, as also in the Chester, if needed. 

LuDiNGTON, Quarterviaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes July 2.'j, 1898.) 



492 INVESTKiATIOX (W CONDITCT OF WAIi WITH SPAIN. 

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C. Jidy :?7, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Ann >/ Building, New York: 

General Brooke advises that the lumber for making stalls for horses should be 
dressed on the side next to the animal, and that an ample supply of burlap and 
twine should be put aboard each ship, so that if it is found that the animals are 
being chafed, these, together with the hay that is already aboard, may be used to 
pad the stalls. You are authorized to use such lumber, etc. He also suggests that 
the space occupied for the men— 18 inches — is too small. It was decided before 
General Brooke's telegram came that we would reduce the carrying capacity of 
the ships about 20 per cent for men, giving a 24-inch space instead of 18. Direct 
Major Summerhayes that hereafter he is to arrange hammocks 24 inches apart, 
and in reporting ships ready for service the number of men she carries best stalled. 

LuDlNGTON, Quartermaster- General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City, July 2S, ISfhS. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes. quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Deputy Quartermaster-Geueral, U. S. Army, Depot Quartermaster. 



general instructions. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July SS, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building. New York: 

Referring to telegram of 27th, stating that space on Government transports 
for hammocks vpould be 24 inches instead of 18, desire to change centers to 21 
inches instead of 24. The regulation will then be 21 inches between hooks for 
hammocks. 

LuDiNGTON. Quartermaster-General 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City, July 20, ISDS. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball. 
Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, Depot Quartermaster. 



general instructions. 
[Telegram. ] 

Steamer Breakwater, 
Washington, D. C. , Jidy SS, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball: 

Your telegram regarding ventilation for Breakwater received. Confirming 
telephone message by Colonel Bird, you are directed not to put any ventilating 
plants on any of the present chartered steamers unless by special authority from 
this office. No ventilation will therefore be put aboard i\\e Breakwater: to take 
aboard at Fort Monroe the camp equipage. oiifi< ers' luggage, etc., come of off her 
there, and also that which was taken from the Hudson at that jioint. Do this. 
If any of the stores that have been presented to you for transportation by the 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GKNEKAL. 4'.i:) 

Breakwater to Santiago are to be left over notify me at once wliat they consist of, 
so the proper officer can be advised. It is very important that the disinfectant 
material the Surgeon-General has provided for troops at Santiago .should go. 
Give special attention to the requirements of this telegram and notify me. 

LuDiNGTON, QuarteruMster-GeiieraL 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes July 29, 1898.) 



TRANSPORT RIO GRANDE. 
[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 2S, 1S08. 
Colonel KlJiBALL, Army Building, New Yorh: 

The transport Rio Gixinde has been directed to proceed from Fort Monroe to 
New York and report to you. The blow pipe is so damaged as to disable the 
starboard engine. Direct the company to have these repairs made as soon as 
possible, so as not to delay ship. Have her carefully examined, and if she is not 
well ventilated between decks where her standees are, they can be taken down, 
excepting the frames, and hammocks substituted. Desire that the Lcoiia and 
Concha be treated in the same way. and that all three of these ships be fitted for 
transport service with as little delay as possible. Notify the Mallory people to 
have ships examined to see whether they have any repairs to make, so that your 
work and theirs can go on together. Acknowledge receipt and report action. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Neni York, July 29, ISDS. 

A true copy. Respectfully transmitted to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, U. S. 

Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 

Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, Dejiot Quarteiinaster. 



chester and minnewaska. 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, July 2'J, ISOS. 
Depot Quartermaster, New York City. 

Sir: Referring to your indorsement of the 27th instant, forwarding letter of 
Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster, submitting a statement of the cost for 
fitting up the steamships Chester and Minuewaska as army transports, you are 
respectfully informed that the Assistant Secretary of War has authorized the 
expenditure of a sum not exceeding $19,640, for the purpose referred to, viz: 

On steamship Chester: 

Ventilating plant on single decks - - - $6,500 

50 stalls for horses - ^'^^^ 

Painting smokestack and numbering the vessel 80 

Total... ~J^ 

On steamer Minneioaska: 

Ventilating plant '^'^^ 

Fitting up for 1,000 horses ^'^"^^ 

Painting smokestack and numbering the vessel - - - - ^ 

Total L- 11.420 



494 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The cost for hammocks, which you state can be supplied from stock ou hand, is 
not included in the above authorization. 

It is remarked that the estimated cost for fitting up for horses on both vessels; 
named is considered excessive, and should, if possible, be done for less money. 

Major Summerhayes will be instructed to lit up the vessels as authorized. 
Respectfully, 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 30, 1898, for his information and guidance.) 



LEONA, CONCHO, RIO GRANDE, HUDSON, AND ALAMO. 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, July 29, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Neio York City: 

In addition to the Lcoiia, Concho, and Eio Grande, the transports Hudson and 
Alamo have been ordered to report to you at New York. Have them examined 
at once, and report their condition. In the meantime, where necessary, take out 
old standees, excepting frames, and fit them up for hammocks; also overhaul 
stalls for horses, and make them strong and comfortable as possible, putting 
aboard burlap and twine, to be used if needed. Have sanitwy condition of ship 
carefully considered. Examine water supply, and if insufficient provide addi- 
tional capacity. Report arrival of ships and when they will be ready for service. 
See that forage, hay, and oats for thirty days is put aboard all of the ships for the 
number of animals they are fitted to carry. These ships are promised back at 
Newport News by Wednesday'. 

LuDiNGTON. Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 29, 1898.) 



transport minnewaska. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 30, 1898. 
Kimball, Depot Quartermaster. New York: 

You are authorized to provide four lifeboats and fittings, including davits: also 
four life rafts for transport Minnewaska, cost $8,000; also awnings for ship, cost 
$1,600. Understand, the procurement of these boats and awnings will not detain 
this ship from being ready to sail on Wednesday. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 
(Copy to Major Summerhayes, July 31, 1898.) 



TRANSPORT MINNEWASKA. 

[Telegram.] 

Washington, D. C, Jtdy 30, 1898. 
Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, Xeir York: 

You are authorized to provide four additional boats and fittings, including davit^i, 
also four life rafts for transport Minnewaska, cost $3,000; also awnings for ship. 



REPLY OF (,)lTARTER]\rASTi:R-GENERAL. 41)5 

cost $1,000. Understand, the procurement of these boats and awnings will not 
detain this ship from oeing ready to sail on Wednesday. 

LuDiNGTON, Qudrtennaster-General. 

Depot Quartermasteu's Okfice, 

New York City, July ;il, ISDS. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhaj^es, quartermaster 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Colonel, Quartennaster s Department, Depot Quarterviaster. 



STEAMER MANITOBA. 

LTelegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 30, 1S98. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York: 

The Maiiifobd has been reported ready for sea. Give her sailing orders to report 
to Major Wilson, at Newport News, for the purpose of carrymg part of Grant's 
brigade to Porto Rico. Understand she is to be properly ventilated, has on board 
1,000 hammocks, and forage, hay, and oats for 1.000 animals for thirty days. See 
that she goes to Newport News at once. Report date of her departure and whether 
equipped and loaded as above indicated. 

LuDlNGTON , Quartermaster-General, 

Depot Quartermaster s Office, 

Neil- York City, July 31, 189S. 
Official copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster 
U. S. Volunteers, for his information and guidance. 

A. S, Kimball, 
Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, Depot Quartermaster. 



GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS. . 

[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Wushington, D. C. July 30, 1S98. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Neir York: 

Colonel Hecker reports that Major Summerhayes and Captain Mason do not 
think the chartered vessels can be fitted up to carry animals, but advise that they 
bo fitted up for troops only, with a few stalls for officer's horses. Colonel Hecker s 
recommendation is approved. As soon as the vessels are fitted up report the num- 
ber of hammocks and stalls on each of the ships, and when they will be ready to 
sail for Newport News. Colonel Hecker also recommends that the Chester be as- 
signed to carry Colonel Griffin's regiment from Peekskill. Report when she will 
be ready so Colonel Miller can have supplied from here 2.")0 animals and .•)0 wagons 
for the Peekskill regiment. You must see tliat forage, hay, and grain is put aboard 
the Chester for thirty days. Also notify Subsistence Department so they can sup- 
ply rations. The Alamo sailed last night from Fort Monroe and the Cnnchy this 
morning. Understand, that for the movement of Grant s brigade, can have in ad- 
dition the chartered ships, the Manitoba and Minneiraska. and that we may not get 
the Alamo and Concho in time for this trip owing to their being in (luarantine. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General, 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes. -luly 30, 1^98.) 



490 IXVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

KOUMANIA, ST. LOUIS, HARVARD, BREAKWATER, MANITOBA. 
[Telegram.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, July 30, 1S98. 
Colonel Hecker, Armij Building, New York City: 

Yonr telegi'am regarding the sailing of the Roumania received. Very important 
that the Roumania should have as near thirty days' forage— hay and oats— for 
1,000 animals as possible. Would advise that she continue loading the forage until 
noon Thursday, so that she will arrive at Newport News Friday noon. St. Louis 
will be there Friday. Not yet informed as to movement of Harvard. Breakwater 
must be docked and bottom scraped. Have directed she must be available Satur- 
day morning. Wired General Brooke this morning that all the transports would 
be ready for him not later than Saturday morning, and that the Roumania would 
have on her forage for 1,000 animals for thirty days. He will probably depend 
on that amount being on her. Desire that the Manitoba, and all United States 
transports be loaded with thirty days" forage for the number of animals they are 
fitted to carry. Major Summerhayes reported that he had chartered a vessel for 
General Stone to carry his men and material from Jacksonville. Desire to know 
very much when she will sail. The plan is for her to go to Charleston, take on his 
laborers, and then go to Jacksonville and load on the material. General Stone 
has been notified to this elf ec^. J ust learned Harvard passed in Cape Henry to-day. 
She may be going to navy- yard to have some work done. Will ascertain. 

LuDiNGTON, (Quartermaster-General. 

(Copy to Major Summerhayes. July oO, 1898.) 



steamer obdam. 

Washington, D. C, Aiigust 5, 189S. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster. New York: 

Transport Obdam ai*rived Fortress Monroe to-day and is reported in good condi- 
tion. No repairs needed except a few hammocks. Not placed in quarantine. She 
has been ordered to Newport News, to take part of Grant's brigade to Porto Rico. 
Captain of ship has made requisition for one fire pump and one feed pump, which 
he regards as important; also urgently recommends installation of another dynamo 
ordered when last in New York. Can you ship by steamer to-morrow to Newport 
News the fire and feed pumps? Can another dynamo be installed, or had this bet- 
ter be deferred until she comes North again? 

Hecker, 
Colonel, Assistant Quartermaster, Volunteers. 

A true copy. Respectfully referred to Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster, 
U. S. Volunteers, for immediate action and report. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, U. S. Army. 



steamer LAMPASAS. 

[Telegam. ] 

Washington, D. C, August 6, 1S9S. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartemiaster, Neui York: 

Lampasas now at Fort Monroe ordered to report to you, to be fitted up with 
hammocks for carrying troops and about 10 animals: that is, if ventilation is good. 
She is reported to need three new lifeboats, which were destroyed in landing troops 



REPLY OF (iUAKTERMASTEK-GENERAL. 4!>7 

at Guanica; also, some spare parts for electrical plant are reciuired. Report her 
condition after inspection, and let me know how soon you will have her ready for 
sea and what is needed. 

LuDiNGTON, Qtiartermastcr-Geiieral. 
(Copy to Major Stimmerhayes, August 7, 1898.) 



chester and minnewaska. 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, Atigust 15, 1S98. 
Depot Quartermaster, Nexc York City. 

Sir: You are respectfully informed that the Assistant Secretary of War has 
authorized the expenditure of a sum not exceeding $1,720 for the purpose referred 
to in the indorsement of Maj. J. W. Summerhayes. August 1, 1S98, viz: 

On steamer Chester, fitting for hammocks $860 

On steamship Minneicaska , fitting for hammocks 860 



1,720 
This is in addition to the amount previously authorized, July 2i), 1898, for fitting 
up those ships. 

Respectfully, M. I. Ludington, 

Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 
A true copy. Respectfully furnished to Maj. J. W. Summex'hayes for his infor- 
mation and guidance. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Colonel, Quartennaster's Department, Depot Quartermaster. 



New York, October 11, 1S9S. 

I certify that the foregoing pajjers, numbered 1 to 53, inclusive, are true copies. 

Wirt Robinson, 
Captain and Assistant Quartermaster, U. S. Army. 



(3) Exhibit G. 



War Department, 
General Depot of the Quartermaster's Department. 

Armt BuiLDiNd, Whitehall Street, 

Neiv York City, October 7. ls;tS. 
Depot Quartermaster, Present. 

Sir: In compliance with your instructions of the 4th instant ( 10Gr)0), I have the 
honor to report as follows: 

Standee bunks.— On the first transports fitted out. standee bunks were- furnished. 
These are fitted up by placing a 2 by 4 inch spruce stanchion from deck t( ) deck, secur- 
ing same at the head and heel. To this is fastened a frame to support ' .ink boards 
and bottom boards, 1-inch boards being used for this purpose. They ure built in 
blocks of 12 feet 9 inches by 4 feet 3 inches wide, divided into bunks of about 6 
feet 3 inches by 2 feet wide, in the clear. There are three tiers of bunks where 
the ship's decks are high enough to permit. If decKs are low. then they are built 
two tiers high instead of three. Alleyways are left alongside of each block about 
2 feet wide fore and aft, and athwartship alleyways 18 inches wide are placed after 

7833— VOL. 1 32 



41! 8 INVKSriGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH 8PAIN. 

every block for passage to and fro across the ship. This plan allows men to get 
into their bunks from the alleyway without climbing over each other. An out- 
side alleyway is usually left against the sides of the ship. After finding that these 
were too hot they were removed and hammock fittings substituted, consisting of 
the erection of 3 by 4 inch spruce stanchions from deck to deck, properly secured 
21 inches from centers, and placing on same hooks to hang two tiers of hammocks, 
one above the other, keeping in view sufficient cubic-air space for the comfort of 
the men. This method permits of hammocks being taken down during the day 
and stowed away, in order that sufficient deck room can be given to troops when 
the hammocks are not slung. 

Lcivatories — Are formed by building a shelf of suitable height and cutting out 
same to admit of galvanized iron basins to fit into the same. Water-closets are 
formed by selecting some suital)le place on ship where an outlet can be secured to 
carry off the excrement of troops. . These closets are built in proper lengths, accord- 
ing to the space which we can procure. They are lined inside with galvanized 
iron, with suitable outlets from which a chute is constructed to carry it overboard. 
Water pipes are connected with the ship's pumps, and a constant supply of water 
is passing through these troughs all the time. 

Veiitilatio)!. —Shiits are sui^plied with a number of cowl-head ventilators, run- 
ning from above the upper deck of the ship, usually about 6 feet, and then passing 
down through the compartments. These cowl-head ventilators can be shifted ta 
and from the wind. The size of these ventilators run all the way from 14 to 34 
inches. 

Again, large Sturtevant steam blowers are placed on the upper deck. Shafts 
from them are run down to the decks below, and air ducts are run fore and aft of 
the ship on either side and athwartships. with suitable vents protected by registers 
about 12 feet apart, for the purpose of distributing the air into the different com- 
partments where the troops are carried. 

In some cases salt water sprays have been put in on top of the shafts for taking 
in pure air, in order to cool and moisten the air, so that when it is distributed ih 
the compartments where the troops are it will possess all the requisites of fresh 
and pure salt air. 

Ventilation has also been provided bj^ means of exhaust fans placed on upper 
deck, with shafts placed below to exhaust the foul air from the compartments 
where the troops are stowed. 

]V((tcr .s?(pjj///.— Distilling plants capa])le of distilling .l.OOO gallons of water per 
day have been put up. Water butts and water casks have been placed on board 
where the water-tank capacity of the ship was deficient, and hand pumps have 
betn supplied, thus giving to each man an allowance of from 7 to 10 gallons of 
water jier day. 

Washing tubs have been erected, lined with galvanized iron and fitted with suit- 
ablo cocks for drainage purposes and pipes for supply, thus giving an opportunity 
for troops to wash clothing and to indulge in the comforts and luxur}' of a bath. 
In some cases shower baths have been erected for the purpose of health and com- 
fort. An abundance of galvanized buckets have been put on board to reenforce 
ship's supply. 

Ice houses have been put in ships where the ship's ice house had been inade- 
(juate. 

Coffee barrels, with worms in same, have been put in ships where the coffee 
boilers m ship's galleys have been too small. 

Musket, carbine, and revolver racks have been put in for the use of troops. 

In many cases floors have been laid over iron decks where troops wee carried, 
but this was abandoned as it led to unsanitary conditions, as it permits of rejected 
food getting down through the floor, and this decaying rnakes a bad sanitary con- 
dition. 



REPLY OF (iUAUTERMASTEK-GKNEKAL. 499 

ANIMALS. 

The manner of fitting up ships for horses is as follows: Space— Each animal is 
given a space of 2 feet to 2 feet 6 inches, by 8 feet. Two horses are usually placed 
together; and in some cases fonr have been carried together. The stanchions are 
made of 4 by spruce, well fitted and secured between the decks where the ani- 
mals are stowed. These stanchions are secured at the head and heel by suitable 
cleats. The breast plank consists of a 2 by !)-inch spruce plank, well bolted to the 
stanchions forming the uprights, the stanchions being set about 5 feet apart. 
The foot plank is composed of a 3 by 9- inch spruce plank, well bolted to the heels of 
the stanchions. The division plank is placed between the horses where separated, 
and consists of a 3 by 8 plank, slid into grooves formed on the backing of the breast 
plank, and backing, in order that they can be removed at any time where neces- 
sary, thus making a portable compartment for the horses. All breast planks are 
portable, and can be removed to allow the horses to be removed when necessary. 

The decks are sheathed with l-nich boards or 2-inch boards: the former if of 
wood, the latter if of iron. On these are placed 2 by o-inch footlocks, spaced 
according to the United States Government regulations for carrying animals, and 
properly secured to sheathing of deck. A suitable backing is placed in rear of all 
animals, protecting them from injury by chafing on ship's angleironsor any other 
sharp corners that may come in their way. 

Suitable waters pipes are arranged when practicable to supply water to animals 
from the ships pumjis. 

These fittings cover the carriage of animals under deck. When animals are 
carried on exposed decks, on which there is no protection, there has to be an 
awning deck built as follows: 

Four by six stanchions are placed against ship's rails, properly wedged and hook 
bolted to same. A suitable tenon is cut on the head of each outboard and inboard 
stanchion. A yellow pine beam, running from side to side of the ship, is then 
fitted with suitable mortises to fit into the tenon, driven down, well secured, 
pinned, and wedged over same. Where two rows are carried, one on each side of 
the ship, stanchions consist of two outboard and two inboard stanchions, placed 
about 5 feet apart. Where decks are wood 1 -inch sheathing is placed over same 
to protect the ship's decks against injury from animals' feet. On this 2 by ;J inch 
spruce footlocks are ijlaced, according to the United States Government regula- 
tions. A breast plank of 2 by inch, and foot plank of same size is well bolted 
to the inboard stanchions; suitable holes are bored in the breast plank to secure 
horses to same. In many cases rings are used for hitching the halters to secure 
horses. 

The ship's side from waterway to underneath part of beam forming deck is 
thoroughly covered in by Ij-inch sheathing. On the top of the beams are l.}-inch 
plank, well bolted to same, forming a shelter deck. Suitable divisions are placed 
between every two horses, as below. Suitable troughs are formed in front of the 
animals by fastening same to breast plank, allowing space to get in bucket for 
watering animals, and arranged so that all feed can be dumped into the troughs 
for the use of the animals. 

On the top of this deck, on the outboard edge of same, stanchions are put up, 
well braced, and holes bored in same to permit of life-lines being rove through 
them to form a protection to the men that pass to and fro on this deck. 

Water casks are provided for cooling purposes, and these casks are placed on 
hatches or anywhere where room can be given nearest the animals. 

The animals have usually been placed above the men. as it has been consid- 
ered that if any annoyance should ari.se by reason of carrying men and animals 
together on the same ship, that the smell from the animals would be less liable to 
affect the men if they were carried above the troops than if the animals were 



500 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAU WITH SPAIN. 

underneath the men. Again, this arrangement is an economy of space, because 
the animals can be stowed on the upper decks, that are not fit to carry men and 
are better adapted to carry animals. This applies in all cases where animals have 
been carried, and must always apply where proper stowage is to be observed. 
Again, keeping in view the necessity of giving as large an air capacity as possible, 
this can only be done by stowing animals above men. 
Very respectfully, 

J. W. SUMMERHAYES, 

Major and Quartermaster, United States Volunteers. 

(Eight inclosures, as follows: Exhibit A, showing ventilators; Exhibit B, show- 
ing laundry tubs; Exhibit C. showing hammocks and their stanchions; Exhibit 
D, showing lavatories: Exhibit E, showing soup and coffee boilers; Exhibit F, 
showing exhaust fan of ventilating plant; Exhibit G, showing horse fittings, and 
Exhibit H, showing plan of standee bunks.) 



War Department, 
General Depot op the Quartermaster's Department, 

Army Building, Whitehall Street, 

New York City, October 11, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

General: Replying to your communication of October 3, 1898, requesting to 
furnish certain information regarding ocean-transport service, I have the honor 
to forward herewith copies of instructions received for fitting out transi^ort 
vessels, also a report of Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, quartermaster. United States 
Volunteers, specifying the manner in which the vessels were fitted up with 
improvements for the comfort and health of the troops and for the transportation 
of animals. 

Attention is also invited to inclosed photographic illustrations showing arrange- 
ments of standees, plan of swinging hammocks for troops, lavatories, arrangements 
for washing clothes, steam cooking boilers, horse fitting on upper deck, and sys- 
tem of ventilating by exhaust fan and deck ventilators. 

Very respectfully, A. S. Kimball, 

Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, Depot Quartermaster. 
(Oincls.) 



Exhibit H. 

April 28, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, Netv York City: 

Government has cliartered the steamer Alamo of the New York and Texas 
Steamshij) Company from to-morrow morning to go to Key West, where she will 
receive orders. She is to be loaded with pontoon boats from West Point and 
Willets Point. Charter requires Government to furnish coal and water. You 
will arrange with the Mallory Company, or where you can procure the coal 
cheapest, for a supjily to take her to Key West and for fifteen or twenty days 
additional, if she can carry that amount. She has water tank for 10,000 gallons. 
You are authorized to purchase 100 water casks, holding about 120 gallons each, 
to be filled with water and put aboard of the Alamo. Communicate with West 
Point and Willets Point. Further instructions regarding the charter of this ship 
and also the Contal of this line will be forwarded to you by mail. Acknowledge 
receipt by wire and state what can be done regarding the water casks. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



REPLY OF QUAIiTEIiMASTER-CJENERAL. 501 

Major Pope, Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla. : ^^^^^ ^^' ^^'^^' 

Purchase fifty 120-gallon casks, cost not to exceed $7 each. That is the price 
understood by your telegram. A large number of these casks have l^een ordered 
to be placed on the various vessels: these now ordered, so you can place them 
wherever you think they may be needed. It is very important that all of the 
transports be supplied with ample water for ])oth animals, men. and steaming 
purposes during the expedition. 

If these are not sufficient you are authorized to purchase the number you think 
will be necessary. The casks should be clean to prevent water souring. 

LuDiNCTON, Quartennaster-General. 



^^^^'^'^•J Mays, 1898. 

Scully, Depot QuartermaMer, New Orleans, La. : 

You are authorized to purchase as many 50-gallon casks as you think necessary 
to supply ample water for 400 animals for at least ten to fifteen days, including 
ships' tanks. 

Regarding the two lighters, I fear they draw too much water, especially the 
Waiidrrer. Hold them in readiness at owners' expense. Will wire positive 
instructions in tlie morning. Draft should not be over 5 feet. If such lighters 
can be had. notify at once by wire. 

Bird, 
for Quartermaster-General. 

Capt. T. E. True, Depot Quartermaster. Washington, B.C. 

Sir : The Merchants and Miners" Transportation Company were directed to pur- 
chase all the water casks, large and small, they could in Baltimore, and ti) ship l)y 
the Allegheuji. You have been directed to settle for this with the Merchants and 
Miners' Transportation Company. The water barrels should be invoiced to 
Colonel Humphrey, who is now in charge of all transports under the direction of 
the Major-General commanding, so as to satisfy your responsibility. 

By direction of the Quartermaster-General. 

Respectfully, Charles Bird, 

Major and Qnartermaster, United 6Yc/Yt'.s- Army. 



May 25, 1898. 
Colonel Humphrey, Qu rtermaster, Tampa, Fla.: 

Your telegram regarding additional water casks, etc., received. Vou are 
authorized to purchase .10 additional water casks at $6.40 each for transports: also 
to fit up 5 transports with facilities for men to cook coffee, cost about $;J.">0. There 
will be ordered shipped to you from New York at once one-half dozen coal tubs 
for supplying coal from one vessel to another; and also !» single break deck pumps, 
smaller size, with 1.") feet of suction hose each, and I.jO feet rubber hose lA inches 
diameter, without nozzles. 

Note what you saj^ regarding the Kanairlia, schooner Stevens, barges Bessie and 
Laura, etc. Also as to chartering Tarpon or Dutchess. The two latter will not 
be chartered unless recommended by you. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartennaster-General. 



May 20, 1898. 
Colonel Humphrey, Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla.: 

Telegram this date regarding water casks received. You are authorized to 
purchase 50 more casks. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



502 INVESTIUATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITJI SPAIN. 

June 13, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York City; 

Have chartered steamers Nueces and Lampasas of the Mallory Line. Have 
them fitted for troops and animals, complying with army regulations, which Gen- 
eral Miles says has not been adhered to heretofore in fitting np the ships. Also 
have these vessels coaled with at least twenty days" coal after they arrive at des- 
tination in gulf. Also see that they are amply supplied with water casks, if they 
have not already accommodations for an ample stipph' of water. As these ships 
are liable to go to southern Cuba or to Porto Rico, and carry animals, an ample 
supply of water should be i^rovided for them. Acknowledge receipt and report 
when these ships will e ready to sail from New York; also when the Arcadia 
will be ready to sail, that instructions may be given you. Hold all of the ships in 
New York for sailing instructions. Mr. Mallory has been notified that the ships 
have been chartered, the date of charter to commence noon 14th (to-morrow). 
Please furnish valuation of the Nueces and Z.a;Hj>asa.s for entry into charter. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-Genera]. 



June 25, 1898. 
Colonel Scully, CMef Quartermaster, New Orleans, La.: 

Your telegram regarding water tanks has been repeated to Captain Bellinger, 
with instructions to call upon you for such tanks as he requires. You are author- 
ized to supply them. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster- General. 



June 25, 1898. 
Captain Bellinger, Quartermaster , Tampa, Fla.: 

Colonel Scully telegraphs as follows: " I can now have tanks same as on Hudson 
made here, 750 gallons at §20, and 1.500 gallons at $28." He has been authorized 
to furnish such tanks as you need and upon your request. 

LuDiNGTON, Quart ennaster-General. 



Exhibit I. 

April 30, 1898. 
Major Pope, Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla.: 

It is desired to hire two good-sized steam lighters, say about 120 feet in length, 
to accompany General Shaffer's expedition. Failed to get them in Mobile. 
Major Pond states Plant agent says his company may be able the furnish the 
lighters. Please wire at once wheCher these lighters can be procured at Port 
Tiimpa, and if so, their size, draft, and carrying capacitj'. It is important that 
they be procured if possible. Give rate per day. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Tampa Bay Hotel, 
Tampa, Fla., April 30, 1S9S, 
Quartermaster-General. Washington, D. C: 

Mr. Plant says no such thing as steam lighter this part world; nearest to it 
Plant twin-screw steamer Tarpon, light draft, 203 feet long over all, 25 feet wide, 
large covered deck. Think might answer; left with Naval Reserves yesterday; 
might be obtained. 

Pope, Quartermaster. 



REPLY OF QUAKTERMASTElf-OENEIiAI-. 503 

April, 30, 1898. 
Major Pullman, Quartennaster, Mobile, Ala.: 

It will be necessary to have two steam lighters of good capacity, say 120 feet 
long, with good beam, to go with General Shatter's expedition. Please take the 
matter up at once and report as early to-day as possible, by wire, whether such 
lighters can be obtained in Mobile, and if so, give price per day without charter. 
Government assuming war risk and furnish coal and water. Also give draft of 
lighters loaded and carrying capacity, and if those lighters could be at Port Tampa 
by May 4 to go with expedition, the company to furnish the crew. 

LuDiNGTON, Quarteiinaster-General. 



May 4, 1898. 
Major Pope, Quartermaster. Tampa, Fla.: 

It is important that some arrangement be made to assist in discharging the 
transports with General Shaffer "s command on the shore of the island of Cuba. It 
seems impossible to get the proper steam lighters. The Tttrpoii, of the Plant sys- 
tem, and the Wanderer and Goldsirorihij, of New Orleans, have been suggested. 
None can be found in New York or Baltimore, 

It has also been suggested that strong seagoing decked barges be towed over 
with the expedition by strong tugs, and that they be .used to make a floating dock 
by connecting them with timbers and flooring with temporary piles at outer edge, 
or that they might be put alongside the vessels and loaded and pushed ashore hj 
the tugs. 

Please consult with Captain McKay regarding tliese methods and report at once 
by wire which he thinks will be the best; and if he thinks l)arges and tugs prefer- 
able, whether they can be chartered at Tampa, Mobile, Savannah, or other Soutli- 
ern ports. 

The pontoon boats might be found too light. 

LuDlNGTON , Quartermaster- General. 



May G, 1898. 
Post Quartermaster, Fort Barrancas, Fla.: 

It is reported that the tug Monareh, of Pensacola, would bo a good, seaworthy 
tug to do towing with transports and lighters that may go to Cuban coast. Please 
ascertain at once whether she can be chartered by the day; and if so, how much 
per day, tlie company furnishing and feeding the crew and assuming marine risk, 
the Government to assume war risk and furnish coal and water. If she can be 
chartered, how soon can she report at Port Tampa? Are there any seagoing 
decked barges at Pensacola that could be chartered. Government assuming war 
risk; and if so, what is charter price per day? If so, could they be liad at once, so 
that if needed the Monareh could tow them to Tampa? If these barges are light, 
at wliat price per ton can you obtain good bituminous coal for use of transports, 
and to partially load barges to make them tow easily? 

LUDINGTON, Qnartermaster-Geueral. 



May 7, 1898. 
Colonel Humphrey, Qimrtermaster, Tampa. Fla.: 

Major Pope wires that Captain McKay thinks that if General Shaffer has 
with him, in addition to present fleet of transports, the Plant Company's steamer 
Tarpnn and the three-masted scliooner Cora, now at Key West, and a seagoing 
tug, it will be all that is necessary to land the command on the coast of < 'nba 



504 INVESTIGATION OF CONDflCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

with pontoon train on Alamo, If these vessels are authorized, will they be all that 
is necessary to make the landing of command on Cuban coast a siiccess? 

Tlie Fanita, to arrive at Tampa in a day or two, is not for General Shafter's 
command, but, as soon as discharged, is to report to Major Pullman at Mobile. 

Ask Captain McKay whether tug G. W. Childs. at Key West, would do for this 
service as well as the Monarch, from Pensacola. 

Your action regarding storing of coal on transports where you have space, and 
that you may need an additional four-masted schooner to carry a reserve supply, 
is noted. Could not this reserve coal be carried on the Tarpon and Cora, at Key 
West, if chartered? 

Report promptly by wire. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster- GeneraL 



May 8, 1898. 
Madden, Quart crma fit er, Fort Ban^ancas, Fla.: 

Telegrams regarding Monarch and seagoing bai'ges received. Will not need 
barges, but desire to know positively if AlonarcJi can be chartered; and if so, give 
price. Government assuming war risk and furnishing coal and water, owners 
assuming marine risk and furnishing and feeding crew and running expenses. 
Captain McKaj*. at Tampa, who is employed to superintend the loading and dis- 
charging of transports, recommends very highly the Monarch. Please wire at 
once if i)arties will charter her. giving price. If Monarch can not be chartered, 
is there any other tug of seagoing capacity that could be chartered? If so, give 
name and terms under conditions stated. Captain McKay says there are several 
tugs at Pensacola that would do. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



[Telegram.] 

May 25, 1898. 
Colonel Humphrey, Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla.: 

Referring to your telegram of the 2.")tli, asking for a tug for use at Port Tampa, 
would state that Major Pullman has been authorized to charter the one intended 
to be used for towing the water schooner and send her to you at once at Port 
Tampa. She is chartered from day to day, and as soon as you can spare her 
send her back to Mobile and annul charter. Major Pullman has been notified to 
communicate with you to know if you desire the tug to bring the Anne E, Stevens 
with her to Port Tampa. Please notify him. Acknowledge receipt as to whether 
this is satisfactory. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



June 27, 1898. 
Captain Bellinger, Assistant Quartermaster. Tampa, Fla.: 

Colonel Black. Corps of Engineers, telegraphs to the War Department that he 
desires to have the Margaret purchased for use of lightering men and animals to 
the shore at different ports in Cuba. Before I present this matter to the Secretary, 
desire that you wire me a full report as to her size, capacity, draft — light and 
loaded— and any other information necessary to guide me in making my recom- 
mendation to the Secretary as to the purchase of this vessel. Colonel Black tele- 
graphs that they want $65,000 for her purchase, or to charter her for §200 per day, 
we furnishing crew and all expenses, marine and war risk. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



REPLY OF Q[TARTFJniASTF.R-r;F.NF.I?AL. fjOf) 

Exhibit J. 

copy of form of proposal for movement of troops. 

Headquarters Department of the Lakes, 

Office of Disbuksino Qlautermaster, 

ChicLuju, III.. Mai) .'S, isns. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Wufilihujton. D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to forward herewith, for the information of the Quarter- 
master- (ieneral. public notice issued in anticipation of future movements. 
This notice has been given the greatest publicity possible. 
Very respectfully, 

F. B. Jones, 
Lieutenant-Colonel, Chief Quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers. 
(1 enc.) 



PUBLIC notice. 

In view of the second call of the President of the United States for volunteers 
and in order to be ready to move such volunteer troops, you are respectfully 
requested to submit bids, to be opened at this office at 13.30 p. m., Saturday, .Tune 
4, 1898, for the transportation of volunteer troops from their camps or nearest 
railroad track thereto at Springfield, 111.; Indianapolis, Ind. : Milwaukee, Wis.; 
Lexington, Ky.; Island Lake. Mich.; Columbus, Ohio; Nashville, Tenn., to 
Tampa, Fla.: Chickamauga Park, Ga.; vicinity of Falls Church, Va. 

Proposals should show as follows: 

Rate per capita for officers. 

Rate per capita for enlisted men. 

Rate per berth in first-class sleeping cars. 

Rate per section in second-class sleeping cars. 

Rate per car, including rental of palace horse cars, for horses. 

Rate per 100 pounds for freight. 

That 150 pounds of freight will be carried free for each passenger. 

That first-class sleeping cars will be furnished for the offic«>rs. 

That second-class sleeping cars (3 men to a section) will be furnished for the 
enlisted men. 

That after twelve hours' notice required equipment will be furnished as called 
for by the Quartermaster's Department. 

That the troops, their horses and freight, \^^ll be -'run"' in solid trains from 
initial to ultimate point. 

That all passenger cars will be kept well supplied with ice and water, and that 
trains will be run with greatest speed consistent with safety. 

Blanks on which to make proposals accompany this notice. 

The United States reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive 
informalities in bids. All other conditions being equal, preference will be given 
to the line which furnishes tourist sleeping cars for the enlisted men. 

Very respectfully, ^ B.Jones. 

Lieutenant-Colonel, U. S. Volunteers, Chief Quartermaster. 



506 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OK \VAi; W!Ti[ SI'AIN. 
PROPOSALS FOR TRANSPORTATION OF VOLUNTEER TROOPS. 

Lieut. Col. F. B. Jones, 

U. S. Volunteers, Chief Quartermaster, Chicago, III. 
Sir: In accordance with your public notice, dated May 26, 1898. prefixed hereto. 
the Railway Company will furnish transportation for United States Vol- 
unteer troops as follows: 

From Springfield, III. , to Tampa, Flu. 

Officers . $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ .per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ . per car. 

Freight $ per lOU pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for eacli passenger. 

From Springfield, III., to Chiekamanga Park, (hi. 

Officers $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $,. ... per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ l)erth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars % per car. 

Freight $. _■.... per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Springfield, III., to or near Falls Chnrelt, Va. 

Officers _. $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car . . $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car ,| section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars % per car. 

Freight | per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Indianapolis, Ind.. to Tampa, Fla. 

Officers $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car , $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $. section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars % per car. 

Freight % per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From IndiannpoUs, Ind., to Chiekamanga Park, Ga. 

Officers jj per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight $ per 100 poimds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTEK-GENERAL. ')()! 

From ludianapolis. Inch, to or near Falls Oiurclt. Va. 

Officers § per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ . berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight . . § per tr)0 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From MilivoMkee, Wis., to Tam,2Ja, Fla. 

Officers - $.- per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars . . $ per car. 

Freight $ per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Milwaukee, Wis., to Chickamauga Park, Ga. 

Officers _ $ per capita. 

Enlisted men - - - $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ . berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car -- $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight - - - 8 per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Milwaukee, Wis., to or near Falls Church, Va. 

Officers - - $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car - S berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car - - . $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ - per car. 

Freight S P^r 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Lexington, Ky., to TanijM. Fla. 

Officers - $ percapita. 

Enlisted men - - $ percapita.. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car - $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car - - - $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars - $ per car. 

Freight ^ per 1 00 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Lexington, Ky., to Chickamauga Park, Ga. 

Officers - - $ percapita. 

Enlisted men $ percapita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car - $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars . . - $ per car. 

Freight ^ perl.-,Opound.s 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 



508 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

From Lexington, Ky., to or near Falls Church, Va. 

Officers $ per capita. 

Enlisted men _ $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car . $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight. $ per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Island Lake, Mich, to Tampa, Fla. 

Officers $ per capita. 

Enlisted men. $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car § berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight $ per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Island Lake, Mich., to Chickamavga Park, Ga. 

Officers _, $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car. _ $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $...... section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight $ per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Island Lake, Mich., to or near Falls Church, Va. 

Officers.. $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car _ $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars,. $ per car. 

Freight $ per 100 pounds, 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Columbus, Ohio, to TamjM, Fla. 

Officers ._. $ per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car. $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $. per car. 

Freight ._. $ per 150 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Columbus, Ohio, to Chickamauga Park, Ga. 

Officers $ per capita. 

Enlisted men _ $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car . $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight $ per 100 pounds. 

^One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 



REPLY OF QUARTEKMASTEK-GKNERAL. 50!) 

From Columbus, Ohio, to or near Falls Church, To. 
Officers $._ percapita. 



Enlisted men , 



H per capita. 



Berth in first-class sleeping car ._ $ berth. 

Section iii second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight _. § per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Nashville, Tenn., to Tampa, Fla. 

Officers ._ § per capita. 

Enlisted men § per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight .$ per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Nashville, Tenn., to Chickamauga Park, (ia. 

Officers . $ per cai»ita. 

Enlisted men $ per capita. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car §... .. berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car _ $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars $ per car. 

Freight ._. , % per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

From Nashville, Tenn., to or near Falls Church, Va. 

Officers _. § per capita. 

Enlisted men $ per cajnta. 

Berth in first-class sleeping car $ berth. 

Section in second-class sleeping car $ section. 

Horses, including rental of palace horse cars . $ per car. , 

Freight . - $ per 100 pounds. 

One hundred and fifty pounds freight to be carried free for each passenger. 

This proposal is made as a part of the public notice prefixed hereto, and all the 
conditions specified in the former are understood and made a part of this bid, and 
any service awarded this company will be performed according to the true intent 
and meaning of the conditions in said public notice at rates herein stated. 



By 



Exhibit K 1. 
Water. 



[Telegram.] 

New Orleans, May 2Jt, lSUS—n.2o p. m. 

Quartermaster-Gexeral, Washington, D. C: 

I have just turned over to Lieutenant-Colonel Whiteside four good-sized .ships to 
transport his regiment to Mobile. I, as well as .several naval experts h.-re, could 
put a division of troops on these ships in the old-time way. If it is reported that 
this transportation is insufficient, please do not blame me. 

SCUM.Y, 
Assistant Quartermaster-General. 



510 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

New Orleans, La., May 34, lSOS—5.05 p. vi. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington. D. C: 

The estimate of number of horses to be carried on steamships was based on 
what they usually carried. Commanding officer Fifth Cavalry has a book about 
troopships, and will not put any more horses on board. Clinton is aground at 
Brazos Santiago. All the wagon transportation is being carried. 

Scully. 



[Telegram.] 

New Orleans, La.. May 25, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington. D. C: 

Arkansas and Moi-gan left at 5 a. m. Slillicater also left, but, having been 
improperly loaded, returned, was reloaded, and left at 3 p. m. BreaJacater. with 
soldiers and freight, left at 12.30 p. m. Only seven companies were carried and 
half the transportation. We were deceived on account of comparative size of 
cavalry horse and wagon mule with the animals these ships usually carry. It 
will take two more ships of the capacity of the Morgan to carry this cavalry regi- 
ment to Cuba. Wagon transportation with this command was enormously out 
of proportion to our calculation. Colonel Whiteside ordered what was left here 
sent by rail to Mobile. Stillu-afer proved not a good ship for live stock, but is a 
good freight and passenger boat. Arkansas and Morgan could have capacity 
much increased by fitting up lower holds, biit it is unsafe to put animals there at 
this season. Orizaba is fitted up for 050 men and about 200 animals. 

Scully. 



Exhibit K 2. 

[Telegram.] 



Newport News, Va., July 24, 189S. 
Quartermaster-General Army, WasJrington, D. C: 

Your telegram of to-day received. The St. Paul has not arrived; neither has the 
Seneca. The St. Louis is here, but can not come this .side of Fortress Monroe; 
neither will the St. Paul in all probability. The arrangements for men and ani- 
mals on these ships that I have just inspected are very much contracted. I have 
directed a large amount of gunny sacks to be prepared to wrap the bracing tim- 
bers, which will otherwise injure the animals, and have tried to improve the ven- 
tilation for the men. I would not be surprised if we would be several days getting 
away, as there is much to do in the lading of some of these ships, which should 
have received earlier attention. The four batteries from Chickamauga will not 
arrive until to-morrow afternoon, even though they should be much more fortunate 
in their trip than I was. If you have anything to say further let me hear from you. 

8.41 p. my John R. Brooke, 

Major-General. Commanding. 



July 26, 1898. 
General Brooke, Neu'port News, Va.: 

Your telegram regarding the condition of transports at Newport News received. 

I am aware that these transports are not fitted up for either men or animals with 

that care as to their comfort as the case requires, but the conditions have been 

such that the transports were demanded of me for service and it was impossible 

to put them in better condition, even with the facilities at my hands in New York. 



REPLY OF QITARTEKMASTEU-GENEKAI.. 511 

I have requested that the three transports now in New York, that have just been 
turned over to me from the purchasers, be allowed to remain in my hands a suffi- 
cient time to put them in proper condition. In every case where reciuisition has 
been made for transportation for a certain number of troops, stores, and wagon 
transportation the command has increased so much above that which was stated 
that the transportation was found short. In order to provide for this an additional 
ship was sent to you carrying 720 men. It is understood by this office that the cav- 
alry from Camp Alger that was sent down here was to go, provided there was room; 
otherwise they were to remain in camp. Major Wilson has been given authority 
to employ help and do anything that is necessary in order to make the transports 
comfortable. I hope that you will find ample space for your men and animals, so 
that they may be comfortable on the journey. Would be glad to have you report 
any defects, so I may have them corrected in other vessels. It is the desire and 
intention of this office to make satisfactory arrangements in every way. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



July 27, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Army Building, New York City: 

General Brooke advises that the lumber for making stalls for horses should be 
dressed on the side next to the animal, and that an ample supplj' of burlap and 
twine should be put aboard each ship so that if it is found that the animals are being 
chafed, these, together with the hay that is already on board, may be used to pad 
the stalls. You are authorized to use such lumber, etc. He also suggests that the 
space occupied for the men. 18 inches, is too small. It was decided before General 
Brooke's telegram came that we would reduce tlie carrying capacity of the ships 
about 20 per cent for men, giving a 24-inch space instead of 18. Direct Major 
Summerhayes that hereafter he so arrange hammocks, 24 inches apart, and in 
reporting ships ready for service that the number of men she carries be stated. 

LuDiNGTON, Quarterniaster-Oeneral. 



[Telegram. ] 

Newport News, Va., July J9, 1S9S. 
Gen. M. I. Ludington, 

Quarfcnuaster-General U. S. Arviij, Wanhirigton, D. C: 
In reply to your telegram 1 would say that the ships fitted for animals are fixed 
with stalls made of rough lumber. The conseciuence is, if the ships roll, any 
portion of the animal touching this rough lumber will be chafed badly. All lum- 
ber used for making stalls on board these ships should be smooth. A large supply of 
burlap and twine should be supplied on eacli ship so that in case of chafing of any 
animal the rails of the stalls could be padded. There is always hay enough to 
make padding. These little things are too small for most people to notice; there- 
fore you will have to give directions so as to save our animals. I will take three 
troops of cavalry from Camp Alger, two from New York, and one from Phila- 
delphia on the Massachusetts. In regard to the space occupied by the men, 
I would say that it is only 18 inches; nothing less than 2 feet should be allotted. 
The stanchions are in such shape now that they can not bo taken out without 
undue delay: therefore we are going as it is. I do not understand why the^e 
spaces were reduced. A man in his coffin is allotted 22 inches, but in these l)oats 
he is allowed 18 inches. The Seneca is here in the stream. The (luarantine offi- 
cers are fussing about her for some reason or other. I have telegraphed the 
Adjutant-General. The little remarks cover the case so far as I am concerned. 



512 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Try and have these ideas carried out and make stalls smooth where they are now 
rough. I have directed burlap and twine to be pui-chased for ships on which 
animals are carried. 

John R. Brooke, 
Major-General, Commanding. 



Exhibit K 3. 



Charleston, S. C, July 17, ISOS. . 
LuDiNGTON, Chief Quartermaster, Washington, D. C: 

No ventilating apparatus of any ki^d has been supplied or put into the ship 
Obdam (No. 30). She should have air compressors and ventilator, which, if 
ordered at once, could be placed after arrival here before we sail. This report 
is based upon careful examination by Colonels Bliss and Biddle and statement of 
the captain. 

Wilson, Major-General. 



July 18, 1898. 
Major Wilson, Quart ennaster. Charleston, S. C: 

On investigation find you are right regarding ventilation of Obdam (No. 30). 
Quartermaster at New York states there was not time to put this ventilation in. 
This office was not aware that it had not been done. He has been directed to 
send men down and material by express and have the ventilating plant put in 
while ship is at Charleston. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Exhibit K 4. 



Depot Quartermaster's Office, U. S. Army, 
IJOl Prytania Street, New Orleans, La., July C'5, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-GenE'Ral, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 
General: The following is a true copy of a telegram sent you this date. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

J. W. Scully, 
Colonel and Assistant Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. 

" Have just examined manifest of Berlin. No hammocks. Master and officers 
assure me they are not on board. Buried too deep now to make personal exam- 
ination. Anticipated your telegram and had express company to wire along road 
without result up to present (5 p. m.). Expect them at 8, when they will be put 
aboard at once. Ship ready to sail when they arrive. Paj'master paying troops 
on board ship now. 

"Scully." 



Depot Quartermaster's Office, U. S. Army, 

1£0J Prytania Street, New Orleans, La., July ^'5, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington. D. C. 
General: The following is a true copy of a telegram sent you this date. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

J. W. Scully, 
Colonel and Assistant Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 513 

' ' Hammocks arrived at 7. 15 p. m. Ou board ship at 8. Ship ready to sail imme- 
diately, as far as Quartermaster's Department is concerned. Troops paid aboard 
ship to-day, consequently many soldiers ashore. Ship could have lult at 'J p. m. 
were it not for fact that many firemen and soldiers were not aboard. Left sliip at 
10 p. m. Gave orders and believe she will leave at midnight. If this is done very 
little time will be lost, as ship can not pass jetties unless at daylight. 

"Scully." 



Depot Quartermaster's Office, U. S. Army, 

1201 Prytania Street, Neiv Orleans, La., July 26, ISOS. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 
General: The following is a true copy of a telegram sent you this date. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

J. W. Scully, 
Colonel and Assistant Quartermaster-General. U. S. Army. 

"The Berlin is as good as any ship that left here. The trouble is the pajTnaster 
paid the Texas regiment yesterday. Had I known he would do so I would have 
protested. There was no discipline whatever. Soldiers are now roaming around 
the streets. Ship could have left last night but for the drunkenness and bad con- 
duct of Riche's regiment. That officer gave orders to Captain Coulling at 7 p. in., 
in writing, to anchor the ship in the stream as soon as he got orders to leave. 
They are getting up all sorts of excuses to remain here longer. Shall obey your 
instructions and attempt to straighten out matters at once. 

"Scully." 



Depot Quartermaster's Office, U. S. Army, 

1201 Prytania Street, New Orleans, La., July 26, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. Wasliington, D. C. 
General: The following telegram was sent you this date. 
Very respectfully, yom* obedient servant, 

J. W. Scully, 
Colonel and Assistant Quartermaster-General. U. S. Army. 

' ' Steamship Berlin still anchored in river ( 1 '^ m. ) . Qi;arterniaster"s Department 

not responsible. For causes read New Ox'leans Picayune, which I mail you to-day. 

Particulars by mail. 

"Scully." 

New Orleans, La., July 2S. isn.<!. 
Adjutant-General, Washington. D. C: 

After departure of Riche's regiment boat was in such disgusting condition, due 
to sinks overflowing into men's (luarters, it was absolutely nece.ssary to keep 
boat here to clean and disinfect her, part of regiment sleei)ing on wharf. More 
sinks now constructed, carpenters from enlisted men working voluntarily to 
hasten departure. Everything possible has been done night and day to carry out 
desire of your department for quick departure. Ship sails in forty minute^. 

Hood, 
Colonel, Second U. S. Volunteer Infantry. 
7833 — VOL. 1 3'o 



514 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Exhibit K 5. 

[Telegram.] 

August 30, 1898. 
General Wheeler, Montauk, N. Y.: 

The following dispatch has been received: 

" Soldiers arriving on transport t!an Marcos rex^ort, in signed statements over 
their own names, Capt Abner H. Merrill guilty of brutal and tyrannical treat 
ment. They say that he confined them in filthy quarters, refused to permit them 
on deck, allowed them to be fed on food unfit to sustain life, and continually 
assailed sick and well with profane and abusive language.'" 

Investigate and report immediately to the Adjutant-General. 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 



August 30, 1898. 
Captain Knight, 

Cliief Quartermaster, Montauk, N. Y.: 
Bitter criticism in New York papers on condition of San Marcos when she 
arrived there. Please make personal inspection and report facts fully. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-Oeneral. 



Montauk, N. Y.. August 31, 1808. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, D, C: * 

fnspected the San Marcos and found her clean and well aired. Dr. Borden, the 
surgeon in charge on the trip from frfanLiago, accompanied me. He stated officially 
that the condition of the ship upon arrival at New York was due entirely to the 
filthy habits of the command. This transport has stationary double bunks, and 
the men would obey nature's call, using cans and plates, and leave the vessels 
under the bunks. Their conduct was insubordinate and almost mutinous, and 
officers did not or could not control them. The San Marcos is more suitable as a 
transport than the average ship and was befouled by her occupants. 

Knight, Quartermaster. 



Exhibit K 6. 

[Cablegram.] 



Santiago, via Hayti, August 7, ISOS. 
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington: 

The Oate City came here stripped of all its conveniences— carpets taken up, 
cushions off the seats, chairs taken out, no sheets, no blankets. It is an outrage 
that a ship in that condition should be sent here to carry troops and officers North. 
I am told this was done by orders given the ship in New York. 

Shafter, Majoi'-General. 



[Telegram.] 

Santiago de Cuba, via Hayti, August 7. 1808. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington : 

The Gate City, one of the vessels to bring reenforcements while at Siboney, has 
just gone North with the Sixth and part of the Thii'd Cavalry. I inspected the 
vessel and found that her chairs, settees, etc., have been taken off her, the cushions 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. ol5 

in saloons removeil, and all blankets, sheets, pillowcases, and everything of the 
kind taken from the staterooms. Who is responsible for sending ships in that 
condition? She has absolutely no comforts for officers, many of whom have no 
bedding. I understood that all these vessels chartered f.)r carrying troops and 
passengers were to be in all respects, as regards furnishings, number, and rating 
of crew, the same as when running in regular service. 
3.56 p. m. Humphrey. 



„ c. ^ r, August 7 1898. 

Ocean Steamship Companv, Savannah, Ga.: 

General Shafter reports from Santiago: 

"The (?o/e CiYy came here stripped of all its conveniences— carpets taken up, 
cushions off the seats, chairs taken out, no sheets, no blankets. It is an outrage 
that a ship in that condition should be sent here to carry troops and officers North. 
I am told this was done by orders given the ship in New York. " 

If such is the condition uf tliis ship, orders must have been given from your New 
York office, as no such orders were given from here or our New York office Con- 
sider that the ship as she reported to General Shafter was not in serviceable con- 
dition for transport service. The charter money will be held from time she 
reported in this unsuitable condition, and settlement will be made only in pro- 
portion to niimber of troops they were able to carry on her after fitting lier up as 
best they can in Santiago for trip North. It is to be hoped you did not take same 
steps with City of Macon. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



[Telegram.] 

Savannah, Ga., Aiu/ust S. 1S98. 
LuDiNGTON, Quarterniaster-General, Washington, D. C: 

Answer to your message of 7th was delayed on account of my absence from city 
until this morning. Carpet on main saloon was taken off ship before leaving here; 
vessel has hard jjine floors, and in some cases, when cleaning carpets, they are 
removed altogether. Did not suppose it was necessary to have carpet on main 
saloon for transportation service. If cushions were taken from seats they were 
stored in some of the staterooms, where thej' cotild be obtauied when wanted. 
Carpets and cushions on hurricane deck were left there, but may have been stored 
in one of staterooms by ship's crew. Sheets that were used on vessels were not 
removed during summer mouths; we generally remove blankets from berths, as 
they are not used, but counterpanes were left on vessels. N othing was taken from 
rooms on hurricane deck. The piano was taken fi'om ship. If ship was stripped 
of what we left on her, we can not be held accountable for same, as we have not 
seen ship or had any report from its officers since they left here on .Tune (i. Trust 
this explanation is satisfactorj'. There was no wish to remove anything that was 
essential to comfort of troops. 

L34 p. m. John M. Eaoan. 



[Telegram.] 



Savannah. Ga.. Augusts, 1S9S. 
LuDiNGTON, Qiiartermaster'GeneraJ, Washington, P. C'.: 

Supplementing my message of this morning, we have received reports from onr 
officer in charge of Gate ('Hi/ au<l f'//// of Mocitti that everytiiing was satistactt.ry 
for convenience of troops when they left Tampa for Santiago. We are alsy 



516 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

informed that (Teneral Miles used Citij of Macon as his headotiarters at Ponce. 
This would indicate that if vessels were in the condition that we turned them over 
to you there should be very little cause for complaint. 

•Jno. M. Eagan. 



August 9, 1898. 
Maj. J. W. SuMMERHAYES. Quartermaster, New York City. 

Major: Inclosed herewith are copies of telegrams from General Shatter, this 
office, and Mr. J. M. Eagan, of the Ocean Steamship Company, on the subject ot 
condition of the steamship Gate City. 

General Shatter's information that the vessel was stripped of furniture and 
conveniences in New York is erroneous, as the vessel was not in that port, but in 
Boston, when chartered, and was ordered thence to southern waters. 

Upon arrival of the vessel in New York you will, by direction of the Quarter- 
master-General, please make an inspection of her condition and report to this 
office. 

Respectfully, Chas. Bird, 

Colonel and Quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers. 
(1 iucl.) 



[Telegram.] 

Savannah, Ga.. August 9, ISDS. 

LuDiNGTON. Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C: 

Letters received from officers of City of Macon, sister ship to Gate City, now at 

Porto Rico, state that men and officers on City of Macon , which is furnished 

same as Gate City, have been more than pleased with accommodations furnished 

them on that vessel. Letters also state that these vessels, on account of being so 

open, are cooler aiui better for the men than the other ship. If fault is found 

with Gate City we would be glad to have you return her to this company. Please 

say if this will be done, and when we may expect her. 

John M. Eagan. 



New York City. August 11, 1S9S. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Wasliiugtou, D. C. 

General: Referring to cablegram from Major-General Shatter, of August T, 
1S;!S, in reference to condition of steamship Gate City, transmitted by Col. F. J. 
Hecker by telephone. I have the honor to report that the steamer referred to was 
neither chartered nor titled up in this port. 

Very respectfully, A. S. Kimball, 

Colonel, Quartermaster's Dejxtrtment, Depot Quartermaster. 



August 14, 1898. 
Depot Quartermaster, Xeu- York City. 

Sir: Referruig to your letter of the 11th instant, in reference to the reported 
condition of the steamship Gate City, stating that the vessel was neither chartered 
nor fitted up in New York, you are respectfully informed, by direction of the 
Quartermaster-General, that this fact was known in this office. The adverse 
report of General Shatter of the condition of the Gate City after she had been so 
long in service, and supposed by this office to be fully and sufficiently equipped, 
caused considerable surprise, and an investigation into the matter was considered 



REPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. 517 

necessary. Major Summerhayes was accordingly .lirectcd l)y letter of this office 
of the 9th instant to inspect the vessel on her arrival in New York, and report the 
result. 

Respectfully, Ciias. Bird.. 

Colonel and Quarternuister. U. S. Volunteers. 



Exhibit K 7. 

[Telegram j 
Desoto Hotel, Savannah, Ga., August lo. 1S9S. 
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C: 

I find upon more careful examination of Minncu-askxi that besides the deficiency 
of closets for men or any cooking apparatus whatever, even lor coffee, she has on 
board but 70 hammocks, and her decks were not properly cleaned l)eiore laying 
the false declcs. The officer who had charge of fitting her tor a transport was 
either ignorant or criminally negligent, as it is causing delay, and unless remedied 
will cause much suffering and sickness and particularly dangerous on the duty 
the regiment is ordered. 

Ray. Colonel. 

Office of Ad.iitant-Genkkal. 
Official: 

Pen Note. — Respecfully referred to Major Summerhayes, througli Colonel 
Kimball, depot quartermaster, for report as to condition of this transport leaving 
New York. 

Frank J. HeckeR; 
Colonel and Quarterniastcr, Volunteers. 
Respectfully referred to Mr. Frank E. Kirby for his statement in the matter. 

J. W. Scmmkrhaves, 
Major and Quarterniaster, U. S. Volunteers. 
August 13, 1898. 



War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington. August :), 1S9S. 
Col. A. S. Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York. 

Sir: We are greatly disajjpointed this evening in receiving telegram from Major 
Wilson, quartermaster. Savannah, as follows: 

'■'■ Minnewaska arrived 3 p. m.; require two days to repair condensing and 
refrigerating machinery. Only 70 hammocks on board. Ret^uire 1.000. One 
thousand invoiced by Colonel Kimball not put aboard. "' 
And the following telegram from Colonel Ray to the Adjutant-General: 
"Transport Minnewaska justarrived. Have inspected her. Found closet facili- 
ties for about 100 men. No cooking facilities whatever. Quarterniaster Depart- 
ment has undertaken to make alterations. Will probably bo delayed two days 
by it."' 

Would like a full report from Major Summerhayes, Captain Mason, Mr. Kirk- 
ham, and Mr. Kirby. We are about discouraged over the condition in which our 
transports leave New York. 

Yours, respectfully, M. I. Ludixgtox, 

Quarterniaster-Qencral, V. S. A. 

[First indorsement.] 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

Neiv York Citi/, August 11, ISfiS. 
Respectfully referred to Maj. .J. W, Summerhayes, quartermaster, U, S, Volun- 
teers, for his report, as well as that of Captain Mason, Mr. Kirkham, and Mr. 



518 INVESTIGAaiON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Kirby. One thousand two Imndred hammocks were placed on steamer Miimc- 

imska, for which this office holds shipping receipts signed by the officers of the 

ship. 

A, S. Kimball, 

Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, Depot Quartermaster. 
[Second indorsement. ] 

New York, August 17. 1S9S. 
Respectfully returned to depot quartermaster, inviting attention to the appended 
reports of Mr. Frank E. Kirby, George W. Mason, fleet captain, and George K. 
Kirkham. who. under my direction, attended to the equipping of the Muinewasl'a. 
I will add that the Minnewaskd was the best fitted-out ship that has left New 
York. The trouble with the machinery was from the fact that the men in charge 
of it had not become fully acquainted with handling it, the ship having been 
rushed off so quick. The refrigerating machinery was reported to me as being in 
perfect order before the ship left, as v/ell as the distilling plant. Col. Patrick 
Henry Ray's report is wholly incorrect, as inclosed statements will show. 

J. W. SUMMERHAYES, 

Major and Quartermaster, U. 8. Volunteers. 
[Third indorsement.] 

Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

New York City, August IS, ISOS. 
Respectfully returned to the Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, inviting atten- 
tion to second indorsement hereon. 

A. S. Kimball, 
Colonel, Quartermaster's Department, Depot Quartermaster. 

Washington, D. C, August 22, ISOS. 

Respectfully forwarded to the Adjutant-General of the Army, calling attention 
to the statements of Major Summerhayes, Captain Mason, and Messrs. Kirby and 
Kirkham. 

This Department is satisfied that Colonel Ray's criticisms on the transport Min- 
neiraska are not justified. 

Special attention is called to the indorsement of Major Summerhayes, who lias 
fitted out all the transports owned by the Government on the Atlantic ports that 
sailed from New York. He states that the Minueu-aska was the best fitted-out 
ship that has left New York. Twelve hundred hammocks were on board of the 
transport. The error Colonel Ray made as respects this Avas to take some other 
officer's verbal statement that there were 17 bales of hammocks, each containing 5 
hammocks, whereas the bales each contained G.") hammocks. 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General, U. S. A, 



I know nothing as to condition of cattle deck before it was sheathed, as the work 
was done before I saw the ship, but generally she was exceptionally clean. 

The galley capacity was larger than other ships carrying same number of troops. 
And there are sufficient water-closets. 

Frank E. Kirby. 

August 12, 1898. 



REPLY OF QUARTERMAfiTER-GENERAL. 519 

War Depaktmknt, 
General Depot op the (Quartermaster's Department, 

Army Building. Whitehall Street, 

Neio York City, August 13, 1S9S. 
Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, Army Building. 

Sir: Replying to statement that the steamship Minneioaslca had but seventy 
hammocks on board, and that sanitary arrangements were poor, that the cooking 
apparatus was insulScient, decks not proiierly cleaned before false decks were 
laid, 1 state, first, that the ship was washed as clean as was possible with deck hose 
and scrub brooms could make her. and all dirt was kept swept up while carpenters 
were at work; second, the cooking arrangements fully sufficient for a large number 
of men, if worked after ship's cooking was done; third, the sanitary arrangements 
were good; fourth, hammocks were all put on the ship, and receipts taken for 
them. 

Respectfully, Geo. W. Mason, Fleet Captain. 



steamship minnewaska. 

War Department, 
General Depot of the Quartermaster's Department, 

Army Building, Whitehall Street, 

Neio York City, August 13, 1S9S. 

Maj. J. W. Summerhayes, Army Building, City. 

Sir: In reply to the statement that this ship was deficient in closets, respectfully 
beg to state that careful consideration was given to this subject, the officers of 
returning transports consiilted, v/ith the result that I found no complaint had 
been made or any inconvenience observed by them. This ship had larger accom- 
modation than any of these returning transports. 

The galley of this ship was exceptionally large, and it was understood that the 
enlisted men should do their cooking at night, as was done on the other ships. 

A complete complement of hammocks was placed on board, and receipts are now 
in the possession of the depot quartermaster. 

The decks, where raised floors were laid, were first cleaned out by the owners of 
the ships, and then by the carpenters as deck was laid. After these decks were 
laid the ship was coaled and possibly some of the dust from the same may have 
found its way under this deck, but this would have in no way caused sickness 
among the men. 

From my personal observation I can honestly say that the chief officer of this 

ship was very painstaking in his efforts to have her clean, and it was remarked by 

all those who saw her leave that she was in a first-class condition. 

Respectfully submitted. 

Geo. K. Kirkham. 



United States Transport Minnewaska, 

Santiago, Cuba, August 17, 1S9S. 
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to report my arrival here at 9 a. m. this day, after an 
uneventful voyage. The regiment is landing in good health and spirits. I found 
the condition of the vessel even worse than I reported from. Savannah. I was 
compelled to close the only two water-closets placed amidship in New York, but 
the one fitted aft met all the requirements. The troughs fitted for washmg on 
each berth deck are placed arthwart ship, instead of fore and aft, so that when 



520 INYESTIGATIOX OF OOXDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN 

the ship rolls, or has a list opposite to the discharge pipe, the water overflows 
and floods the deck. 

False decks have been placed in the berth decks; they are not well fitted around 
the stanchions and hatch coamings, or close matched and calked, so that refuse 
matter collects in the interstices and can not be removed. The ventilating shafts 
carrying saturated air all leak and flood the berth decks: the loose false decks hold 
the water, creating a condition of affairs dangerous to health, especially when 
taken in connection with the fact that the ship has never been properly cleaned 
since used as a transport for cattle, making the odor between decks offensive. 
The scupper and between decks aft I found stopjied when the ship left port, and 
the deck flooded from the leaky air pipes. No one could be found on board the 
ship who could inform me of the location of the scupper, if any, and I was com- 
pelled to adopt drastic measures to get the scupper opened. When found, it had 
apparently been choked for many days, and had to be cut between the decks, letting 
the filth into the hold. The tanks for cooking coffee were placed after my inspec- 
tion at Savannah. There are no other facilities, and my regiment has been com- 
pelled to subsist on travel ration, which is not suitable diet for this climate. 

It has never been my misfortune to be on board a ship so utterly destitute of 
discipline and lack of knowledge of the location of appliances. Upon coming on 
board, I found that all the fresh meat taken on board in New York was spoiled, 
and destroyed it; 10,267 pounds were purchased in Savannah and placed in the 
alleged cold storage; after being at sea thirty-six hours it was reported to me the 
temperature of the cold storage stood at 70° F. and I found a part of the meat spoiled. 
Upon investigation by Major Wilson, quartermaster, it was found that the engi- 
neer had been pumping the brine in a chamber other than that in which the meat 
was stored. I cut the main cabin and crew down to one-half ration of fresh meat, 
but it will not leave sufficient to last for the return voyage. I was compelled to 
place guards over the crew before the ship left the wharf, to prevent desertions. 
The hammocks for men and stalls for animals a'e intermingled on two decks, 
making it impossible to carry out sanitary regulations for the troops. 
Very respectfully, 

P. H. Ray, 
Colonel TJiird U. S. Volunteer Infmitry. 



Exhibit 8. 

New York, Sejotember £?4, JS9S. 
Charles Bird, 

Colonel and Qiiartermaster, U. S. Volunteers, Washington, D. C, 
Sir: Your communication of September 7 to hand. Under direction of Quar- 
termaster-General, you request me to transmit a full and complete report as to 
the condition existing on board my vessel (steamship Concho) during the voyage 
from Santiago de Cuba to New York City and as to the treatment of the soldiers 
thereon. I will, therefore, endeavor to comply with this request to the best of 
my ability, but desire to say that I can only give a statement of conditions and 
treatment of soldiers as observed by me. 

On July 22 1 received orders to proceed to Siboney, Cuba, there to take on board 
convalescents and proceed from that point to Hampton Roads. On arriving at 
Siboney, I reported to Major Le Garde, surgeon in charge. He sent on board Dr. 
Lesser, Red Cross surgeon, as medical officer of the ship, and shortly after I 
commenced to take on boord the convalescents. 

The condition of the ship at this time was that of a United States transport, 
fitted up to carry infantry, all of whose effects had been unloaded at Santiago de 



REPLY OF QrARTEHMASTKR-CJENERAL. ^21 

Cuba, the vessel then having been cleaned, and at this time vas in as good sani- 
tary condition as a troopship could be. No change had been made in ships fittings 
or any other arrangements, as originally planned by quartermaster in New York. 
The Concltowas fitted with 1,350 berths for enlisted men, 52 berths in saloons, and 
58 berths in steerage. 

We received on board at Siboney 157 enlisted men, '20 officers, 8 Red Cross 
female nurses. Dr. Lesser and wife, and pharmacist, all of whom, except the Red 
Cross nurses mentioned below, were in a very low physical condition. Many of 
the men and officers were taken direct from shore hospital and fever camps on 
stretchers, almost wholly, and in some cases entirely, destitute of clothing. These 
officers and men were received and distributed under direction of Dr. Leaser and 
four volunteer lady nurses— Mrs. Nutall, Miss Adiele Gardiner. Miss Alice Bab- 
cock, and Miss Petersen; the other nurses, with Mrs. Lesser, were off duty— they 
being convalescents just out of hospital. 

All patients received on board the ship were placed in the best parts, viz, cabins, 
staterooms, steerages, and main deck, never being put below the main deck. All 
this was accomplished between the hours of 6.30 a. m. and 5.30 p. m.. at which 
time we proceeded for Hampton Roads. With these men we received 1,000 
rations and a few medical stores. I also gave Dr. Lesser all the supplies which 
the ship had, such as bedding, linen, blankets, kitchen utensils, medical stores, 
and ship stores, for use of the sick. 

During the voyage up new cases were constantly developing and the attention 
given the sick by the four ladies previously mentioned, assisted by a hospital stew- 
ard and an enlisted volunteer from Chicago, together with the entire ship's crow, 
was the best possible under the existing circumstances. 

Nearly the entire time of the crew of the deck and steward department was 
devoted to the care of the sick— washing, bathing, and caring for them — and the 
duty of burial devolved on the crew. 

Everything that could be done by the nurses and the crew was done for the com- 
fort and care of the sick and wounded, but the ship was not fitted for a hospital 
ship, and the medicines were limited and facilities for caring for sick were limited. 

Fortunately the V05'age was pleasant as regards the ^^eather. The vessel was 
kept as clean as possible, disinfectants belonging to the vessel being freely used, 
and the whole attention of tlie entire ship's company devoted to the comfort of the 
sick. Six enlisted men died during the voyage. Onlj' one of these actually died at 
sea. The others died almost immediately on arrival at Hampton Roads, and one 
while in Hampton Roads; one also died on removal by quarantine authorities at 
New York City. 

Complaint was made during the voyage about the condition of the drinking 
water. I desire to state that this water came from two sources, and having been 
put into clean tanks only a short time previous, was, to the best ot my .iudgment. 
good. Samples of same were f(jrwarded some; time ago to Washington by (luar- 
termaster at New York. One thousand gallons water taken on at Hampton 
Roads was put into casks on deck and was very soon used up, the ship's com- 
pany and all on board then going back to the use of the original water on the ship, 
though never afterwards did I have further complaints of this water, though it 
was the same which had been used in the early part of the voyage, and which at 
that time had been complained of. Referring again to the .source of water on the 
Concho, would say that some of it was furnished at Port Tampa and a further 
supply froin the transport Mattcdtran. The Port Tampa water was the only 
water used for drinking and cooking purposes, while the Multcdintu water was 
used f(jr washing purposes only. The drinking water was naturally warm, a.s we 
had no ice. When ice was obtained in Hampton Roads there were no more com- 
lilaints regarding water, although still iising Tampa water. 



522 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH RPAIN. 

The Concho arrivetl at Hampton Roads on Wednestlay evening, July 97, anclior- 
ing foi- the night below the mine field. The next morning I went into quarantine, 
where we were hoarded Ijy the national quarantine physician, accompanied by 
United States Depot Quartermaster Adams. Every attention was given us by 
Quartermaster Adams, who also instructed me to await orders. In the mean- 
time, assisted by the ladies at Fortress Monroe, headed by Mrs. General Miles 
and her daughter, he personally sent the sick on board the ship luxuries of all 
kinds, also ice, besides suits of pajamas, and he was untiring in his efforts to 
assist us in every way, both day and night. 

On arrival at Hampton Roads a representative of Messrs. C. H. Mallory & Co.— 
Mr. George R. Edgecombe, port steward— came alongside the Concho, and 1 
requested that he f ui-nish me with meat, ice, fruits, etc. , and a short time after- 
wards these supplies in considerable quantity came on board and were used in 
relieving the wants of the sick and all others. 

On Friday, having received no orders. Quartermaster Adams advised me to pro- 
ceed to sea, bury the dead, and return, which was done. Saturday, July 30, about 
8 a. m.. I received orders to proceed to New York, where I arrived on Stinday, 
31st instant, at 7 a. m. There the vessel was inspected by Port Officer Dr. Doty, and 
he ordered us into quarantine, where removal of the people commenced. After 
the ship was cleaned, disinfected, and all the ship's fittings being destroyed by 
fire, the vessel was sent to New York City Friday, August 5, 1898. 
Yours, respectfully, 

Sam Risk, 
United States Transport Concho {H 14), blaster. 



Exhibit K 8. 

New York, September 24, 1S98. 
Col. Chas. Bird, 

Colonel and Quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers, Washington, D. C. 

Sir: Your favor of the 7th instant at hand. In reply allow me to say on August 
18, at Santiago. Cuba, I received on board this ship about 500 ofiacers and soldiers 
of the Fourteenth Infantry (regulars), with their rations and equipment; sailed 
same date at 6 p. m. for Pons Bay, Long Island; had a fine trip up; arrived at Pons 
Bay August 18, at 4 p. m. We had a few cases of typhoid fever on arrival, but no 
one died on the trip. We had a doctor and plenty of medical stores aboard. The 
ship was clean and in fine order. The soldiers were well treated on the ship. They 
had plenty of room, as the ship was not overcrowded. The doctor who attended 
to the discharging of the soldiers said to me that the ship and soldiers were in the 
best condition of any that had arrived up to that date. 

Major Baker, the senior officer in command, was more than pleased with the 
voyage and treatment of the regiment aboard the ship. 

Respectfully, j. T. Decker, 

Master, S. S. Seneca. 



Exhibit K. 

RAIL. 



Tampa, Fla., June 1, 1S9S. 



Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C. 

Great delay caused by quartermasters not receiving bills of lading in advance 
of stores. This should be corrected at once. 

Miles, 
Major-General Commanding. 



REPLY OF (,)UARTEI{MASTKR-OENERAL. l)'!,) 

JrXE 2, ISDS. 
Depot Quartermaster, St. Louis, 3Io.: 

Major-General Miles wires from Tampa, " Great delay caused by quartermaster 
not receiving bills of lading in advance of stores. This should be corrected at 
once."' Please see that all bills of lading for shipments made by yon to Tami)a are 
promptly forwarded, so as to reach destination without causing any embarrass- 
ment in delivery of freight. 

LUDlN<JTON, 

Quartennastc v- (Jencrt 1 1. 

(Send same telegram to following: Depot Quartermaster, Jeffersonville, Ind.; 
Depot Quartermaster, Army Building, New York City; Depot Quartermaster, 
Philadelphia, Pa. ; Lieutenant Palmer, quartermaster. Fort McHenry. Md.: Depot 
(Quartermaster. Washington, D. C. ; Chief Quartermaster. Pullman BuiUbng. 
Chicago, 111.; Chief Quartermaster, St. Paul, Minn.; Chief Quartermaster, Umaha, 
Nebr.) 



War Department, 
General Depot of the Quartermaster's Department, 

Neio York City, June 3, ISfis. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

General: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your telegi-am of 
yesterday transmitting complaint of Major- General Miles that great delay is 
caused by quartermaster at Tampa not receiving bills of lading in advance of 
stores. 

If this complaint refers to the lai'ge shipments of subsistence stores. I would 
state that (U-ders for their purchase and shipment made it necessary that tlie 
greatest haste possible be made, and for this reason the various concerns of whom 
the stores were bought were instructed to deliver the property to the transporta- 
tion lines direct, and turn in the shipping receipts immediately to this office. In 
spite of repeated requests, many dealers failed to send in these receipts promptly, 
the delay in one case being quite eight days. 

This office is making every effort possible to keep business moving promptly and 
properly, and, notwithstanding the unusual volume to be transacted, endeavors to 
avoid all cause of complaint. 

Very respectfully, A. S. Kimball. 

Deputy Qnarteifiiaster-General . U. S. Army. 



.Tune 4. 189S. 
Depot Quartermaster, Jeffersonville, Ind.: 

Before freight for Tampa or Port Tampa is shipped, you will accpiaint yourself 
as to its iiltimate destination, and if it is to Port Tampa it must be shipped on 
through bills of lading to that point. 

The Secretary of War orders that these shipments to Tampa and Port Tampa 
be consigned over the Plant System and the Florida Central and Peninsular rail- 
roads equally. 

Ludington, Qtiarterma.'<ier-Geticrnl. 

Send same telegram to: Depot quartermaster. St. Louis. Mo. : depot quarter- 
master. Washington, D. C; depot quartermaster. Philadelphia. Pa.: depot -luar- 
termaster. Army building, New York City: chief (luartermaster. Pulbi.an budd- 
ing. Chicago, 111.: chief quartermaster. Battlefield, Ga.; chief quartermaster. 1201 
Prytania street, New Orleans, La.: chief quartermaster, Mobile, Ala. 



524 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

[Telegraphic orders.] 

June 6, 1898. 
In order to avoid confusion at destination which now exists, you are hereby 
directed in making shipments of stores to Tampa, Chattanooga, and other points 
to forward in advance to the receiving officers complete invoices and bills of lad 
ing. The contents of boxes and packages will be plainly marked thereon. The 
numbers and descriptions of the cars with copies of waybills will also be for- 
warded as soon as they can be obtained from the railroad comxiany. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 

The above dispatch was sent to all the general depot quartermasters" depart- 
ments to-day. 

Quartermaster-General's Office, June 6, 1898. 
Copy for the information of the honorable Secretary of War. 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 



June 14, 1898. 
Captain Bellinger, Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla,: 

Much complaint has been made upon the congestion of freight at Tampa and 
Port Tampa. Desire j^ou to report at once whether this congestion has been 
relieved, and whether freight is being unloaded promptly; also, whether yon find 
th: t you now have sufficient storage room for the different classes of freight that 
arrives bj' rail. It has been intimated to this office that cars were standing on the 
side track, under demui-rage, for a number of days. It is my desire that the 
freight be handled with that promptness that will prevent the payment of demur- 
rage. 

You ai-e instructed to pay no demurrage accounts above referred to, nor 
accounts for local freight or troops between Tampa and Port Tampa. Accounts 
can be stated and forwarded to this office for disposition. Have any steps been 
taken by you to secure reduced rates for the transportation of troops or freight 
between the points of Tampa and Port Tampa: and if so, with what success? 
Report whether, up to this time, you have paid any such accoimts as are enumer- 
ated aliove. If demurrage on delaj^ed cars has been charged, report, if possible, to 
what extent. Report situation fully. 

Ludington, Quartermaster-General. 



Tampa. Fla., June 15, 1898. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C: 

Referring to your telegram of the 14th instant regarding state of freight at this 
point, there are 100 cars of the Florida Central and Peninsular and 1 11 of the Plant 
System at this point, and 50 cars at Port Tampa, remaining to be m^loaded. There 
are several hundred cars on sidings north of this point. Cars are now being 
unloaded at the rate of about TO per day. The new storage house is approaching 
completion, and portion now under cover is being used for storage. If matters 
proceed as they are now proceeding, the track will be completely cleared in a 
week, including everything to the north of this place. Have paid no demurrage 
accounts, and recommend that none be paid. The congestion at this point was 
due as much to the railroad as to the Government, and the unloading has often 
been impeded by the railroads not placing the cars when requested to do so. Some 
time ago I took up the subject of rates and freight charges, but have not had time 
to make a report. They charge 2 cents a mile for passengers, and were not 



REPLY OF quartermast?:r-generai.. 525 

inclined to make a reduction, though my remarks upon their freight and iiiissf-n- 

ger charges were very caustic. They claim that there is some arrrngemeut made 

with the traffic and passenger associations which require them to make charges. 

Bellinger, Dcjjot (^uartennaster. 
(Received 11 p. m.) 



Lakeland, Fla., August 17, 18US. 

Quartermaster-Geney'al, Washington , D. C: 

Have been directed by the commander of the Provisional Cavalry Brigade to 
inform you that the railroad here is sending the stock of the Tenth Cavalry .n 
cars unfit for the transportation stock. These cars seem to be the only ones avail- 
able at pi'esent in this country. The cars are, in my opinion, good cars. 

Paul Reisengek, 
Second Lieutenant, Tenth Cavalry, Quartertnaster. 



Washington, D. C, August As\ 1S98. 

Ma.ior Bellinger, Depot Quartermaster, Tampa, Fla.: 

Following received from Lieutenant Paul Reisenger, Tenth Cavalry, Lakeland : 

"Have been directed by commander of the Provisional Cavalry Brigade to 

inform you that the railroad here is sending the stock of Tenth Cavalry in cars 

unfit for transportation stock. These cars seem to be the only ones available at 

present in this country. The cars are, in my opinion, good cars." 

Give this matter any attention required and report facts. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Tampa. Fla.. August IS, ISfS. 

Quartermaster-General . Washington, D. C: 

Your telegram received referring to that of Lieutenant Reisenger in regard to 
stock cars furnished at Lakeland. These cars are the ordinary stock cars : are in 
everv way suitable for the movement. The cars desired by commanding officer at 
Lakeland are cars with troughs for watering and feeding while stock is on board— 
a desirable luxury, but not a necessity, and something which would delay the 
movement of the troops possibly for weeks in order to get the number retiuired at 
this point. The action taken by commanding officer in regard to o(iuii)meut tur- 
nished at Lakeland is unreasonable and unjustifiable. He even went so far a-^ to 
sav to Mr. Michael that he must be receiving a percentage for furnishing the 
equipment, when Michael has nothing to do with it further than to see tliat the 
proper equipment is furnished and that it is in proper condition and move<l out 
properly. General Hudson took the matter up and has ordered tlie movement to 
continue, he realizing the complaints were, under the circumstances, querulous. 

Bellinger, Depot Quartermaster. 



Aii(iii.>it js, is:>s. 



Lieutenant Reisenger. Tenth Cavaln/, Lakeland, Fla.: 

Replying to yours with reference to stock cars benig furnished for your regi- 
ment, depot quartermaster, Tampa, reports that they are the ordinary cars. - 
every way suitable for the movement. Their use is therefore approved. 

LUDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General 



in 



526 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SI'AIN. 

September 8, 1898. 
Major Sawyer or Captain Knight, 

Quartermaster, Montauk Point, New York: 
Bitter criticism in morning papers about delay and kind of transportation j)ro 
vided for First Illinois Infantry yesterday. If any cause for such criticism, take 
immediately such steps as will prevent a recurrence. 
Wire fully all the facts, quick. 

LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. 



Long Island Railroad Company, 
Office of the General Superintendent, 

Long Island City, N. Y., September S, ISDS. 
Dear General: In self-defense I have been obliged to give the facts about delay 
in movements of various regiments. We can not help even as we would unless we 
get advices of projiosed movements. 

We have handled 3,000 men in the last twenty-four hours. We must get writ- 
ten or telegraphic orders from Colonel Kimball the day before each movement. 
Yours, truly, 

W. H. Baldwin, 

[Memoranda submitted by Mr. Baldwin with above.] 

The plan for moving troops from Montauk was to move one regiment of infan- 
try per day, provided the Long Island Railroad Company received notice the morn- 
ing of the day previous, from tho quartermaster, of the niimber of men to be moved 
on any day; and it was agreed that no troojis should be moved except on the writ- 
ten order of the quartermaster at New York. 

At 5 oclock Tuesday evening we received a telegram from the quartermaster at 
New York to move the First Illinois Regiment on Wednesday morning. At 7 
o'clock we received another message countermanding this order and stating that 
the First Illinois would not move until Thursday morning. On Wednesday morn- 
ing about 10 o'clock we learned from Montauk that the First Illinois were prepar- 
ing to leave, and, as I have said, we had no orders at all to move them. As they 
were to be sent over the Lehigh Valley Railroad, and as the Lehigh Valley Rail- 
road was unable to furnish cars, the quartermaster gave no orders for these troops 
to leave Montauk for Long Island City. On account of the difficulties in which 
the First Illinois found themselves, we sent special trains to Montauk, and Wed- 
nesday night moved them to Long Island City, the plan being to deliver them at 
Long Island City at daylight, which was done. I noticed that they did not leave 
Jersey City until 1.30 to-day. 

On Wednesday afternoon, when the question came up about moving the Illinois 
regiment, the qnartermaster was asked if any instructions were issued about 
moving the District of Columbia regiment, and was told that advices from Mon- 
tauk indicated that the District of Columbia regiment was getting ready to move 
on Thursday morning. A message was then sent to the quartermaster advising 
him that the Illinois regiment was to move, and that we could not undertake to 
move the District of Coliimbia regiment. This message was not replied to. At 
13.15 Thursday noon the quartermaster gave an order on the telephone to move 
the District or Columbia regiment immediately. Trains had been made up and 
crews ordered to move a detachment of a thousand ti'oops which were to arrive on 
the Pennsylvania Railroad for Montauk. The (luartermaster agreed to hold back 
the troops on the Pennsylvania Railroad, pi'ovided trains could be sent immedi- 
ately to Montauk for the District of Columbia regiment. Before crews and 



REPLY OF (^TARTERMASTEK-dENERAL. 527 

engines could be ordered and provided, the troops from the Pennsylvania Ruil- 
road arrived at Long Island City to go East. The result is that special trains 
have been sent to Montauk this afternoon, and that the District of Colnmbia troops 
w^ill be loaded this afternoon and arrive at Long Island City about midnight and 
turned over to the Pennsylvania Railroad for transportation to Washington. 

In other w^ords, there has not been a single movement of troops from Montauk 
made on proper orders from the Quartermasters Department, and the Long Isiaiid 
Railroad Company in these two last cases furnished trains for the movement of 
troops on practically no notice. 

It is ridiculous to expect any railroad to undertake the movement of a regiment 
of a thousand men, with its baggage and equipment, unless it has an official or(l(;r 
the day before, so that proper train arrangements can be made. We have never 
yet received an official order to move the Seventy- first Regiment, the two Michigan 
regim_ents, or the District of Columbia regiment. 

I noticed a note in some of tlie papers that Colonel Turner, of the First Illinois 
Regiment, is said to have wired the Long Island Railroad about the movement ol' 
his troops, and that he would have Pullman cars, etc. I have no doubt that this 
is an error, as Colonel Turner never telegraphed us. His message was sent prob- 
ably to some connecting lines between New York and Chicago. 

[First indorsement.] 

War Department, 
Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, Septeviber Id, ISns. 

True copy. 

Respectfully furnished for the information and guidance of Col. A. S. Kimball, 
Depot Quartermaster, New York City. 

This statement of Mr. Baldwin seems reasonable, and it is nothing but right 
that the Long Island Railroad should receive written notice at least twenty-four 
hours in advance of each movement. Colonel Kimball will see that such notice 
is hereafter given; and he knows long enough in advance, of movements to be 
made— and as he is directed to confer with the commanding officer, Camp Wikoff, 
relative to the details of each movement— it would seem proper to ask him that the 
day of each movement be fixed, so as to enable the depot (luartermaster to make 
proper arrangements to have proper equipage on the ground in ample time t'(.r 
the troop to break camp and arrive at station at Montauk Point and load cars 
comfortably. 

If further assistance is required, either by detail of additional officers of the 
(..luartermaster "s Department or by hire of employees, Colonel Kimball should at 
once wire the fact to this office. 

M. I. Ll'DINOTON. 

Quartermaster-General U. S. Jrtni/. 



[Telegram.] 

Washington, Se2JtcmherS. iSf)S.—N<>(vi. 

Col. A. S. Kimball, 

DejMt Quarterviaster, Army Building, Nein York City: 

The following telegram has been sent to the commanding general, Montauk 
Point, New York: 

The Secretary of War directs that in the matter of transportation of troops from 
vor.r camp arrangements be made by Colonel Kimball, depot iiuarti^rmaster. New 
Vork City, and not by your local (luartermaster. Colonel Kimball ha.s been 



528 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

instructed to place himself in communication with you and will receive any sng 
gestions or directions you may give looking to the speedy and comfortable move- 
ment of your troops. No end of confusion has come to us by two officers trying 
to do the same thing. It is reported that the movement of the Fii-st District Vol- 
unteers has been delayed. Arrangements have been made for the reception, iw\ 
only by the people, but by the President himself, and it will be a disappointment 
that will reflect upon the entire service if this is not carried out according to pm 
gramme heretofore agreed upon. 

H, C. CoRBiN, Adjutattt-deneral. 

Quartermasteh-General's Office, September 9, ISfJS. 
True copy. 

Respectfully referred, by direction of the Quartermaster-General, to Maj. J. E. 
Sawyer, quartermaster. United States Volunteers, Montauk Point, N, Y., for his 
information and guidance. 

Chas. Bird, 
Colonel and Quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers. 



Camp Wikoff, Montauk Point, N. Y., Septemher 9, isns. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Waslihigton, D. C. : 

There has been mismanagement in forwarding troops from this place, but rep- 
resentation of press greatly exaggerated. The railroad is a single track, with side 
tracks in vicinity of station. Great care is required in handling troops to prevent 
confiision and have cars at time designated for loading in order to prevent delays. 
In future I have directed Major Sawyer to first ascertain from one of his employees 
that the cars have arrived there and notify commanding officer by letter of the 
facts. If the sick and well men are then sent to the train before the proper time, 
the quartermaster will be released of responsibility. The chief surgeon of the 
corps will not allow a sick man to 1)6 removed to the train until ordered by 
commanding officer. This will prevent further bungling, and I urgently recom- 
mend that the Adjutant-General be requested to inform commanding officer of 
Camp Wikotf that hereafter the depot quartermaster will notify him by letter 
when transportation is ready; and in no case will sick be removed from hospital 
or commands leave camp until receipt of notification that transportation is ready. 

Moore. 

Quartermaster-General's Office. 

Washington, September 9, 1898. 
True copy. 

Respectfully referred to the Adjutant-General of the Army with request that 
he will inform the commanding officer at Camp Wikoff. in accordance with the 
above recommendation of Colonel Moore, as to notification when transportation 
will be in readiness for movements of troops. 

M. I. LUDINGTON, 

Quartermaster-General V. S. Arnti/. 



Camp Wikoff, Montauk Point, N. Y.. September 9. 1898. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington. D. C: 

Colonel Harris, commanding here, left last night at 7 o'clock. Cars should have 
been here at 2 p. m. Telegraphed Kimball hour of departure and to have trans- 
l)ortation ready. Road could only provide 14 passenger coaches, which was not 
sufficient to give double seat to each nuan. Will correct this shortness in future 



REPLY OF (^uartkr:\iastf,r-general. 520 

transportation if possible. Troops came here last night, anfl depot (inarterma.st' r 
not advised until short time before arrival. «anie thing occurred at Middletown. 
I recommend that all (juartermasters shipping troops here telegraph time of 
departure to the depot quartermaster at Montauk so that wagon transportation 
will be in i-eadiuess. 

MOOUK. 



Office Chief Quartermaster U. S. Army, 

C'awyj Wikoff, N. V., Se pt ember :i, ISOS. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C. 

General: I desire to report the following in reference to the First District of 
Columbia Volunteers, which left here at 8 p. m. on the 8th instant: 

On the 7th instant it was understood between myself, Captain Patton, assistant 
quartermaster, and Mr. Beach— the latter the Long Island Railroad representative 
here— that ample accommodation for the transportation of the First District of 
Columbia Volunteers would be ready at 2 p. m. on the 8th instant at Montauk to 
move the regiment. Before that time, however. I was informed by the Long 
Island Railroad officials that they would not be able to have transportation at the 
time agreed upon, but they would try to have it later. At 7 p. m. of the 8th 
instant 14 passenger coaches for the men were all they were able to get here, and 
while not sufficient for the 39 officers and 718 enlisted men, the rest accepted it. 
This is the last command to move that transportation was being arranged for 
when I arrived here, and such instructions have already been given as will i)revent 
any trouble in the future. 

Very respectfully, J. E. fcJAWVER, 

Major and Quartermaster, Chief Quartermaster. 



September 10, 1898. 
Colonel Kimball, Depot Quartermaster, New York City: 

Colonel Moore wires from Montauk to-day as follows: " The men in that camp 
are. with few exceptions, weak and debilitated from the effect of fever contracted 
in Cuba, and the Commanding General urgently recommends that tourist cars or 
Pullmans be provided for transportation of his command going to Sheridan and 
Leavenworth, Snelling, and other distant points. I am satisfied from i)er.sonal 
observation that such transportation should unciuestionably be provided. It will 
enable these gallant soldiers to travel in comfort and save the lives of some of 
them, which will at least compensate the Government for the extra expense." 

You will take this matter up with the lines providing transportation and insist 
on tourist sleepers whenever obtainable. It is thought that such sliould be pro- 
vided for all long journeys, and you will spare no eft'orts to secure such accommoda- 
tions and thus avoid any criticism in the matter of transportation. If necessary, 
take the matter up with the Pullman Company at Chicago. 

Acknowledge. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartrruiaster-General. 



St. Augustine, Fla.. Ainfust 17, isos. 
LuDlNGTON, Qudrtermaster-Oeneral, Washingtou, D. C: 

We have on hand at Miami about 130 carloads Goverament supplies that moved 
to that point between June U and July 1. Warehouses were built by u.s so as to 
enable quartermasters to unload cars. They failed to do so. On the r,Hh wecom- 
pleted movement of troops from that point, and cars are still on the track not 

7833 -VOL. 1 34 



530 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

unloaded. We served notice on Major Moody, qmirtermaster at Miami, to the 
effect that from August 12 demurrage charge of $1 per day would be assessed 
against each car. He refers us to you. Will you not arrange to take care of this 
charge and advise Major Moody at Miami? 

J. P. Beckwith. 



August 18, 1898. 
Major Moody, Quartermaster, Miami, Fla.: 

J. P. Beckwith wires as follows: " We have on hand at Miami about 130 carloads 
Government supplies that moved to that point between June 21 and July 1 . Ware- 
houses were built by us so as to enable quarteriuasters to unload cars. They failed 
to do so. On the 12th we completed movement of troops from that point, and the 
cars are still on the track not unloaded. We served notice on Major Mcody, quar- 
termaster at Miami, to the effect that from August 12 demurrage charge of $1 per 
day would be assessed against each car. He refers us to you. Will you not 
arrange to take care of this charge and advise Major Moody at Miami?" 

Report facts in matter and state why cars were not unloaded into storehouses 
while command was at Miami, and why cars allowed to remain there after com- 
mand has left Miami. This in order that I may know whether railroad has just 
claim for demurrage. What is class of stores now purported to be on tracks for 
which they claim demurrage, and what their destination? Use every effort to take 
stores off cars into warehouses, and keep them moving to avoid demurrage. Oflfl- 
cers, for want of proper action, make themselves personally liable for demurrage 
charges. 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Miami, Fla., August IS, 180S. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, D. C: 

Telegram received. On 11th instant, by order of War Department, I relieved 
Major Niskern as depot commissary at this place, and received orders from Com- 
missary-General on 16th instant to ship stores here to Jacksonville, Fla. Since 
receiving orders have shipped 97 carloads, which leaves still here 53 cars of com- 
missaries, which will go away just as fast as it is possible to send them. There 
has never been a time since the army came here that the railroad could store 20 
per cent of the stores on hand, although they were, as I understood, under con- 
tract to furnish store room. The first warehouse they built fell down when 5 
cars of commissaries had been loaded into it, and they had to rebuild it. They 
also commenced another house, which was never finished, but was filled by Niskern 
and guarded by his clerks. All the warehouse room the road furnished was used 
to its fullest capacity. I often heard Niskern say the railroad had not furnished 
warehouses for his stores. Beckwith's demand is absolutely without foundation. 

Jas. M. Moody, Chief Quartermaster. 

9.50 p. m. 



August 21, 1898. 
J. P. Beckwith, aSY. Augustine, Fla.: 

Your telegram of 17th was communicated to Major Moody, at Miami, and he 
replies as follows: 

"Telegram received. On 11th instant, by order of War Dei)artment, I relieved 
Major Niskern as depot commissary at this place, and received orders from Com- 
missary-General on ICth instant to ship stores here to Jacksonville, Fla. Since 
receiving order have shipped 97 carloads, which leaves still here 53 cars of com- 
missaries, which will go away just as fast as it is possible to send them. There 



KEl'LY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENEKAL. 531 

has never been a time since the arinj' came here that the railroad conhl store 20 
per cent of the stores on hand, although they were, as I understaiid, under contract 
to furnish store room. The first warehouse they built fell down when r, cars of 
commissaries had been loaded into it, and they had to rebuild it. They also com- 
menced another house, which was never finished, but was filled by Niskcrn and 
guarded by his clerks. All the warehouse room furnished was used to its fullest 
capacity. I often heard Niskern say the railroad had not furnished wareliouses 
for his stores. Beckwith's demand is absolutely without foundation." 
This is a bar against any claim for demurrage. 

LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



St. Augustine, Fla., Augtist 29, isos. 
Quartormaster-General LuDiNGTON, Washington, D. C. 

Dear Sir: I am in receipt of your wire No. 111084 relative to demurrage 
charges on Government property held at Miami in cars not unloaded, and in reply 
to same beg to advise that Major Moody, quarterma.ster at Miami, is mistaken in 
his statement, as we have made no contract with the Government or anyone to 
furnish free warehouses for the xise of the Government at Miami. We did furnish 
on our own account three warehouses, one 450 feet in length by oO feet in widtli. 
one 250 by 40 feet, and another 120 by 40 feet. These warehouses were used by 
the Government from June 24 to August 12. The troops and supplies commenced 
moving from Miami to Jacksonville on this date. In the meantime we held from 
June 24 to August 21 on our tracks at Miami 180 cars, upon which we have made no 
claim for demurrage charges, neither have we made any claim for rental of wan- 
houses. My notice to you was to assess demurrage charges from August 12 until 
the cars were moved from Miami. These charges we are entitled to, and I :im 
satisfied, after you review the situation, will meet with your approval. I would 
be glad to hear further from you. 

Yours truly, J. P. Beckwith, Traffic Manager. 



Washington, D. C, September 1, ISDS. 
Chief Quartermaster, Battlefield. Ga. : 

Article has appeared in New York papers severely criticising the routing of a 
hospital train containing soldiers of the Eighth New York Regiment, destined to 
New York via Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Buffalo, as circuitous and attended with 
unnecessary delay. Do you know anything about this matter? Was train routed 
by Quartermaster's Department? The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad complains 
here that the Eighth New York is being routed via Bristol. Lynchburg and South- 
ern Railway. You have been twice directed to route the regiment via Bristol, 
Shenandoah Junction, and Baltimore and Ohio to New York. Is complaint of the 
Baltimore and Ohio herein stated correct? 

LUDINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Chickamauga National Park, Ga., Scptnnl>cr 1, iSOS. 
Quartermaster-General. Washhigton. D. ('.: 

The train for the sick of the Eighth New York was not ordered nor made up at 
the instance of the Quartermaster's Department, but was made up especially by 
the railroads to accommodate the men. 200 in number, going on furloughs. Tlie 
routing stated was at special request of the colonel of the regiment, who particu- 



532 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

larly desired that the train should arrive at Forty-second Street Station, and not 
require tedious and painful transfer from Jersey City, besides accommodating 
men along the route. The time was thought to be but little longer and the track 
known to be smoother. In regard to routing the remainder of the regiment, your 
telegrams have been received, and there has been no thought of disregarding them. 
The regiment is not yet ready to start, and when shipped will be routed according 
to your orders. I earnestly protest against the entertainment of a report of rail- 
road officials as against my service of many years' standing. 

Lee, Chief Quarterviaster. 



[Telegram.] 

Watson, Ind., September 17, 1S98—11 p. m. 
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C: 

Train with first section held here by order of Big Four official. Can get no sat- 
isfaction. They assume to change our trains from three sections at Louisville 
without authority from Mr. Rations, and companies were arranged for four sec- 
tions. Are side-tracked without explanation. Will you order them to send us 
forward immediately in four sections, as originally arranged for by orders? 

McGuRRiN, Colonel. 

Adjutant-General's Office. September is, 1S9S. 
Official copy for the Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 

H. C. CoRBiN, Adjutant-General. 



September 18. 1898. 
General Traffic Manager. Big Four Route, 

Cincinnati, Ohio: 
Colonel McGurrin wires the Adjutant-General from Watson, Ind., last night 
11 o'clock as follows: -'Train with first section held here by order of Big Four 
official. Can get no satisfaction. They assume to change our trains from three 
sections to Louisville without authority from Mr. Rations, and companies were 
arranged for four sections. Are side-tracked without explanation. Will you 
order them to send us forward immediately in four sections, as originally arranged 
for by orders? "' 

Please take the necessary steps to move these troops immediately. Also explain 
the delay to this office by wire. 
By order Quartermaster-General: 

Bird, 
Colonel and Quartermaster, U. S. Volunteers. 



Cincinnati, Ohio, September is, 1S9S. 
Colonel Bird, Quartermaster, Washington, D. C: 

I am greatly chagrined at necessity for your telegram. We had advice 1 rom 
Southern Railway of cars coming to us with Michigan regiment sufficient in our 
opinion for just three trains, and arranged for three crews to handle them. Our 
head(iuarters being at Indianapolis, it was impossible to comply with reciuest of 
officers to move them in four sections. After one section had been made up and 
put forward, your officer iy charge at Louisville ordered them stopped at Watson, 
Ind., 15 miles out, and instructed our men to send a switch engine after them and 
bring them back to Louisville, which we tried to do. but officer in charge of train 
at Watson refused to permit train to return. We then arranged to take a crew 



• REPLY OF QUARTERMASTKIf-fiENERAT.. !')3S 

off an excursion train and let them go in four sections, but some time necessarily 
elapsed. It was then necessary for us to run a crew nearly i.'jO miles to bring . .ut 
the excursion train, whose crew we had taken. We couM hav.> handled 1 Ik ni 
nicely in three sections, but I am afraid the officers were not ii unit. We try our 
very best to handle these movements satisfactorily. President Ingalls has iustrmtfd 
us to spare no pains or expense in affording facilities, and our record up to this 
movement was without equal. I sincerely regret this occurrence. 

E. O. McCOHMICK, 
Pdssenger Traffic Manager Big Four. 



Camp Hamilton, Lexington, K;/.. September :jr,. 
Quartermaster-General, Washington, I). C: 

Colonel Third Engineers reports cars used by that regiment, .St. Louis to Lexing- 
ton, old, dirty, inefficient capacity; two-thirds of men traveling at night, two in 
one seat. 

Marshall, Chief Quartermaster. 



Washington, D. C, Septembe'^ 26, 1S9S. 
Depot Quartermaster, St. Louis, Mo.: 
Following just received from Marshall, chief quartermaster, Lexington, Ky.: 
" Colonel Third Engineers reports cars used by that regiment .St. Louis to Lex- 
ington, old, dirty, inefficient capacity; two-thirds of men traveling at night, two 
in one seat."' 

Report facts in the matter. 

Moore, Acting Quartenndster-Gcneral. 



St. Louis, Mo.. September 37 , 1S98. 
Quartermaster-General LT. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

General: In reply to your telegram relative the complaint of the colonel Third 
Engineer Volunteers as to ecjuipment furnished his regiment en route from Jef- 
ferson Barracks to Camp Hamilton. Ky., I have the honor to report that after 
investigation I find that the facts in the case warrant my belief that the command- 
ing officer of that regiment expected more than allowance under orders ami regu- 
lations. The railroad company admit that a few of the cars were not of largest 
"standard" coaches, but explain that the 28 coaches furnished for the use of 1,072 
enlisted men had a seating capacity for 1.492 men, the remainder of the regiment, 
42 officers and 20 sick, having been accommodated in standard and tourist sleeping 
cars. I am not aware of any authority which retjuires the Quartermaster's 
Department to contract for tvro seats for each soldier while traveling, but it ha.s 
been customary to provide that soldiers shall not be crowded in cars and to 
stipulate not to exceed from 35 to 40 men to be loaded in ordinary coaches. 

In the agreement for transportation of this regiment, on which a very low rate- 
about three-fourths cent per mile— was obtained, it was provided that sufficient 
coaches should be furnished, not to exceed 40 men per coach. The movement of 
the regiment was .set for the ITth instant, and the railroad company had assembled 
a fine lot of equipment; and when about to send it to Jefferson Barracks, orders 
came postponing the movement; and the great scarcity of cars of ail kinds, it is 
claimed by railroad comjiany. did not permit them to have them lie idle, and they 
were lased for other troops; and when orders to move were given a few days later, 
they had to furnish the best cars available. I have absolute proof, and reliable 



534 ITSWESTIUATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

information from nearly every line in this city, that for the movements of soldiers 
for some time past each and every company is obliged to arrange with other com- 
panies for the coaches required, and I also know that the coaches furnished the 
Third Engineers have been used by other troops in recent movements, and no com- 
plaint has been made. I am told. 

Since it has been the custom for some time past tliat officers of volunteers have 
found fault with equipment furnished by every line to and from Lexington, it is 
more than probable that the officers want more, perhaps, than they are entitled to. 
In this connection I venture to express the opinion that it will not be advisable to 
call for extraordinary and unusual special accommodations in excess of what the 
regulations provide for the general public are furnished, if it is desired to ol)tain 
low rates, which latter is usually enjoined in the orders to arrange transportation. 
This suggestion is in view of the fact above mentioned that equipment is insuffi- 
cient to handle troops at the present period and has to be rented at a good price 
usually. In conclusion, I believe that under the circumstances a little leniency 
might be exercised and the short ride involved in this case (about fifteen hours 
from East St. Louis) may be thought not to have worked too great a hardship 
on the men. 

Very respectfully, G. C. Smith, 

Colo7iel and Depot Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army. 



Headquarters Camp Hamilton, 
Lexington. Ky., Sejitemher SO, ISH.S. 
Adjutant-General, 

War Department, Washington, D. C: 
The railroad. eijuipments for the Twenty-first Kansas from here, also the Third 
Engineers and First Territorial Regiment from West to this point, has been unsat- 
isfactory; neither commodious, modern, or clean as that furnished at Chicka- 
mauga, but seems rather discarded rolling stock, 

Breckinridge, 
Major -General, Comnianding. 



Washington, D. C. October 1, ISOS. 
Depot Quartermaster, St. Louis, Mo.: 
General Breckinridge wires from Lexington as follows: 

'• The railroad equipments for the Twenty -first Kansas from here, also the Third 
Engineers and First Territorial Regiment from West to this point, has been unsat- 
isfactory; neither commodious, modern, or clean as that furnished at Chicka- 
mauga, but seems rather discarded rolling stock." 

Please investigate and report facts, with recommendation. 

Lu DINGTON, Quartermaster-General. 



Long Island City, Long Island, September 5, ISOS. 
General Ludington, War Department, Washington, D. C: 

We have 220 cars under load in Montauk yards. Many of these cars have been 
under load or part load for two weeks or more. It is imperative that these cars 
be unloaded at once to give us the proper track room for handling the troops out. 
I shall be unable to furnish train to move troops out if we do not have proper track 
room in the yard, which is more than ample fo'i- your needs. I also give notice 
now that we shall be compelled to charge regular car service of $1 per day for all 



REPLY OP QITAiiTl'liMASTKliHiENEliAL. oSf) 

cars held iinder load for more than three days after they are properly placed. I 
hope you will wire General Wheeler as to imperative necessity of emptying cars 
with reasonable dispatch. 

W. H. Baldwin, Jr. 
13.48 p. m. 



September 5, 1898. 
Knight, Quartermaater. Mo7itavh Point, N. Y.: 

Railroad report there are 330 cars under load in Montauk yard. Many of those 
cars have been under load or part load for two weeks or more. It is imperative 
that these cars be unloaded at once to give proper track room for handling troops 
that will leave Montauk during the next ten days. Give this your immediate 
attention and put forth every effort possible to unload these cars. 

LuDiNaTON, Quartermaster-Oeneral. 



September 5, 1898. 
W. H. Baldwin, Jr., 

President Long Island Railroad, Long Island City, L. L: 

Yonr telegram stating there are 330 cars under load in Montauk yard surprises 

me. I have wired chief quartermaster to put forth every effort possible to unload 

cars expeditiously. Can not assent to paying regular car-service charge for 

detained cars. You have no warehouses at Montauk, and much of the freight in 

detained cars must be warehouse freight. 

LuDiNGTON, QvAxrtennaster-GeneruL 



Long Island City, N. Y. , September 5, ISOS. 
LuDiNGTON, Quartermaster-Oeneral, Washington, D. C: 

1 have your message. There are cars on the track at Montauk Point that have 
been under load ever since first shipments were in there. To be siire, we have no 
warehouses at Montauk. because you agreed to furnish yoiir own warehouses and 
I agreed to furnish necessa,ry tracks for reasonable handling of the freight. Your 
statement that you will not assent to pay regular car-service charges for detained 
cars is not reasonable in view of the fact above stated, and I see no reason why 
you should not be treated in just the same way that the public is treated in siinil;ir 
cases, and must insist on charging car service for cars that are not unloaileil 
within three days. 

W. H. Baldwin. Jr. 

6.47 p. m. 



Montaiik business for twenty-four hours ending S a. m., Se2)tember 0, ISDS. 

Montauk: 

Cars unloaded past twenty-four hours 25 

Loaded cars on hand 8 a. m - . 302 

Empty cars on hand 8 a. m 25 

Loads in track 8 a. m 24 



Long Island Railroad Company, 

September 9, ISOS. 
General Ludinoton. 

Dear General: We still keep a large number of cars under load. I wish you 
would reduce the loads. 

Yours, W. H. Baldwin. 



536 INVESTIGATION OF CONDrCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Headquarters First Army Corps, 

Office Chief Quartermaster, 
Camp Hamilton, Lexington, Ky., September .?S, JSns. 
Quartermaster-General of the Army, Washington, D. C. 

General: I have the honor to report that there has been considerable com- 
plaint of the quantity and quality of accommodations given troops being trans- 
ported to and from this laoint. Those coming in represent that the men were 
obliged to go into ordinary coaches at the rate of three men for each two seats 
(seats for four persons), which necessitated two-thirds of the men sitting up, two 
in a seat, during long trips occupying two days and nights or longer. 

When the Twenty-first Kansas left here a few days ago I refused to have the 
men loaded until sufficient equipment was furnished to permit of each man having 
a full seat to himself, about twenty-six or twenty-seven men to the coach on the 
average. The railroad officials claimed that this was not provided for in their 
agreement. I had not been furnished with a copy of the agi'eement, but insisted 
on the point and carried it. 

I respectfully recommend that in future all troops traveling by night or long 
distances be furnished with sxifficient coaches to allow one full seat to each man. 
I believe that this will cost but little, if any, more than when they are crowded, 
as before mentioned, and will prove just as satisfactory and probably more health- 
ful than tourist sleepers. 

I request that hereafter when troops are to be transported from here that I be 
authorized to arrange for their transportation. An officer 300 to 400 miles away 
can not give it necessary attention. 

Very respectfully, J. M. Marshall, 

Deputy Qiiartermaster-General, U.S. Army. Chief Qttay-termaster. 

[First indorsement.] 

War Department, Quartermaster-General's Office, 

Washington, Oetoher 3, ISDS. 
Respectfully referred, by direction of the Quartermaster-General, to the depot 
quartermaster, St. Louis. Mo., with request for remark, with early return of 
papers. 

The instructions of this office have uniformly been that in shipping troops 
who would be out over night en route, a full double seat should be provided for 
each man if it proved impracticable to procure tourist sleepers. 

Chas. Bird, 
Colonel and Qtiartennaster, U. S. Volunteers. 

[Second indorsement.] 

Office Depot Quartermaster, 

St. Louis, Mo., October 6, ISDS. 

Respectfully returned to the Quartermaster-General U. S. Army. 

There is no record in this office, with the exception of instructions recently in 
one or two special cases, as to general requirements to furnish for each man two 
seats — a double seat. Contracts have never been made by this office stipulating 
that on each ticket a double seat shall be supplied. It has, however, been cus- 
tomary to xH'ovide and require that cars must not be crowded, and not more than 
oO to 40 men to each coach should be placed, according to capacity of coaches 
furnished. According to instructions in first indorsement hereon, a full double 
seat will hereafter be called for and provided for each man in cases of shipment 
of troops not furnished tourist sleeping-car accommodations, although it will 
undoubtedly tend to advance in rates. 

There exists a wide difference of opinion as to what proper accommodations 
are necessary for men traveling in coaches for only one night out. It is believed 



EEPLY OF QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL. F)^l 

to be general that people get very little sleep the first night traveling, and it has 
alv/ays been considered that three men to a section, two double seats, were com- 
fortably provided. The practice for many years has been to allow not to exceed 
;55 men to be loaded in an average-sized coach seating 50 to CO persons, and no 
complaint has been received here in regard to this until recently, and all and the 
only complaints were from Lexington about troops shipped from and to that 
point. No fault, to the knowledge of this office, has been found with any niovi,'- 
ment from any other point. It is a natural conclusion that the comnianding 
officer at Lexington desires arrangements for transportation be made at that 
point, and it is quite agreeable to me that the chief quartermaster there relieve 
me of the task of handling and arranging for troops moved from that point. 

G. C. Smith, 
Colonel and Deputy (Quartermaster-General. U. S. .[rmi/. 



Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railway System, 

Passenger Traffic Department, 

St. Louis, Mo., October J, IS'JS. 
Col. G. C. Smith, 

Depiity Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, St. Louis, Mo. 

Dear Sir: This will acknowledge receipt of yoiir favor of October 2. advising 
that General Breckinridge has reported to the War Department unfavorably on 
equipment furnished for the recent movement of the First Territorial Infantry, a 
portion of which regiment was moved under contract with the Missouri, Kansas 
and Texas from Fort Reno to Lexington, Ky., and a portion of which was moved 
from Whipple, Ariz., over another route. 

I think there must be some misunderstanding. I can not believe that the report 
refers to the Missouri, Kansas and Texas equipment, which was entirely used in 
the case of the Fort Reno movement. I am in a position to answer positively that 
the charge is incorrect, if it refers to the Missouri, Kansas and Texas movement, 
without reference to or getting statements from any of our officials whose duty it 
was to look after the movement. The writer was on hand at Union Station, St. 
Louis, when the train bearing the soldiers arrived. The coaches were those which 
are used almost every day on the line; in fact, some of them were taken out of or.r 
regular passenger service, and they were as commodious as it is pos.sible to have 
day coaches. I can vouch for their cleanliness at the time the troops were loaded 
at Fort Reno, but I can assure you that they were in pretty bad shape on reaching 
St. Louis. The soldier boys had apparently been plentifully supplied with bananas, 
peanuts, and other such delicacies, the remnants of which were Scattered, not only 
throughout the coaches, but on the platforms at Union Station as well. The 
writer had a talk with Major Stone when the train arrived at St. Louis, and he 
expressed himself as highly pleased with the equipment and the run made from 
Fort Reno to St. Louis. 

As a matter of fact, there are but a few out-of-date coaches on the Missouri, 
Kansas and Texas system, but there was not one of them used in this movement. 
Some of the coaches had been out of the shops but a few days. 

In this connection I hand you herewith extract from letter from our traveling 
passenger agent, who accompanied the train. While there was no intention on 
our part to make complaint relative to the rough treatment received by our ecpiip- 
ment, I feel that, from your inquiry, you should like to be in possession of all the 
facts. 

Very truly, James Barber. 

The troops were handled up to St. Louis in a manner satisfactory to all. They 
were in a big hurry to get started from Fort Reno, but wanted to stop at all 
stations through the Territory, to bid good-bye to their families. The troops them 



638 INYESTTGATION OF CONDTTCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

selves were a lot of rough fellows, and they abused our coaches by climbing in 
and out of the windows and striking matches on the sides of the coaches. I called 
the attention of several officers to the matter, but they seemed powerless to pre- 
vent it. I think it would be policy hereafter, in movement of this class of busi- 
ness, to give them a poorer grade of cars. 

A. C. Miner, 
Traveling Passenger Agent. 



The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway Co., 

Passenger Department, 
TopcTxa, Kans., October S, 1S9S. 
Mr. G. C. Smith. 

Colonel and Deputy Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, St. Louis, Mo. 

Dear Sir: Mr. Tedford, our general agent. St. Louis, has referred me to your 
letter of October 3, in reference to equii^ment furnished for movement of Terri- 
torial Infantry from Whipple Barracks to Lexington, Ky. By reference to pro- 
posals for this movement and correspondence subsequent thereto. I find that the 
proposals stipulated that we must furnish tourist sleepers for the enlisted men and 
standard sleepers for the officers; also, that it was necessary to start the regiment 
at the earliest possible moment. 

Immediately on receipt of advice that our bids had been accepted we notified 
the Pullman Compan}- of the approximate number of men in the detachment, and 
asked them to at once provide tourist sleepers for the enlisted men and standard 
sleepers for the officers. Correspondence from the Pullman Company indicates 
that the}^ immediately set to work to provide tourist cars, but that they had some 
trouble in doing so, for the reason that a large number of their cars were then in 
use transporting other regiments. In addition thereto. I understand that tliey 
were compelled to invoke the aid of the courts of Chicago in obtaining certain 
eqxiipment, which was in the hands of northern lines, who declined to deliver it 
to the Pullman Comx^any, jjreferring to retain it for the use of other movements 
via their lines: consequently, you Avill see that it was no easy matter to obtain 
tourist cars. I make this explanation merely to show that there were difficulties 
to overcome in connection with the movement. 

The running gear of our equipment was carefully inspected before it was put 
in service for this movement, and while it is possible that some of the cars were 
not of the latest pattern, I do not understand that this should affect the condi- 
tions so long as the cars were safe and comfortable. At any rate, this is a matter 
over which the railroad company has no jurisdiction, as in attempting to provide 
tourist or standard sleepers for such movements we must necessarily^ accept such 
equipment as the Pullman Company are able to provide. However, I shall take 
pleasure in referring j-our letter to the Pullman people, so that they may add such 
further remarks as may have a bearing on the case. 
With kind regards, we remain, very truly, 

W. I. Black, General Passenger Agent. 



Southern Railroad Company, 

Louisville, Ky.. October 4, IS'DS. 
Col. G. C. Smith, 

Deputy Quartermaster-General U, S, Army, St. Louis, Mo. 
Dear Sir: Your letter 2d instant is at hand. 

I am quite surprised to hear there was any complaint by General Breckinridge 
on account of equipment furnished Twenty-first Kansas Regiment. The cars were 
inspected before departure of this regiment from Lexington to Fort Leavenworth, 
and at that time there was no protest or complaint as to the condition or character 
of the cars. 



REPLY OF (.)UARTrjlMASri:il-(;KNERAT-. 539 

We will, however, promptly investigate this matter, amlpend yon.al tliiMjirlicst 
possible date, statement in regard thereto. 

Yours, very truly, Wm. H. Tavi.du. 

Assistant General Passe injcr Atji'iil. 



Depot Quartermaster's Office, 

St. Louis, Mo., October 11, ISUS. 
Quartermaster-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

General: In reply to j^our telegram of 1st instant, calling i'or report, etc., rela- 
tive complaint of General Breckinridge as to equipment for Twcmty-first Kansas 
Infantry from Lexington, arranged for by this office. I have tlie honor to invite 
attention to my report in regard to movement and e(iuipment of the Third Engineer? 
Volunteers forwarded 2Tth ultimo; also to inclose herewith letters received up to 
date, concerning this matter, from Southern Railroad. Missouri. Kansas and Texas 
Railway, and Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, respectively, which, in my 
opinion, show sufficiently that the transportation companies did their best, in view 
of scarcity of all kinds of railway equipment at the time the service was rendered. 
Although these reports are not in full, I do not deem it necessary to further delay 
ray reply to your telegram. 

I think, on the whole, there was little ground for complaint. It must be con- 
ceded that the Government can not expect railway companies to furnish a certain 
kind of superior equipment, which they do not possess, excepting a limited number 
of cars of "modern "' equipment used by the companies in the regular train service, 
and which would be entirely insufficient for the demands made upon the companies 
to move trooi)s. 

As to tourist cars, I know, and everj^one familiar with the situation is aware of 
the fact, that there are only about 30 per cent of the number of cars demanded 
available now, and have been for some time past. This is the busiest period of the 
year in the passenger business, and it is a wonder that the railroads have been 
able to manage it as well as they did. Since complaint has reached this office 
concerning very few of the regiments recently moved under the direction of this 
office, and all contracts have provided uniformly for good cars and accommoda- 
tions for all alike, it seems obvious that it was not the fault of the Quartermaster's 
Department nor the railroad companies that accommodations were not to the 
liking of the complainants, but that, if there was anything not up to •' modern" 
and "standard' accommodations, it was duo only to the exigencies of the 
situation. 

Very respectfully, G- ^' Smith, 

Colonel and Deputy Qnartermaster-deneral, r. S. Armif. 



CLOTHING. 

Washington, D. C Juin jg, lSf)s\ 
Colonel Lee, Chief Quartermaster, Battlefield, Ga. 

The governor of Kentucky wires the Adjutant-General as follows: "The Sec- 
ond Kentucky went into camp at Chickamauga some time before the First and 
Third. The latter two are fully e.iuipped. while in the Second 300 of the l>oya are 
almost naked and barefooted." Please investigate and report and supply neces- 
sary wants. _ ,, , , ./■.,,..,.,,/ 

LuniNGTOX, Quarfcriiiasii r-< " iirial. 

[First indorsement.! 

Chief Quartermaster's Office, Camp George H. Thomas. 

Chickamauga Park, Ga.. July ?7. ISnS. 
Respectfully referred to Capt. M. G. Zalinsk-i. assistant quartormastov. U. S 
Army, in charge of clothing depot. Battlefield. (Ja., for full report of issues of 



540 INVESTIGATIOX OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

clothing and equipage to this regiment, dates thereof, articles issued and remain- 
ing due on requisitions. 

The records of this office show requisitions received as follows: June 2, 1898, for 
clothing and equipage, approved for issue same date; June 14, 1898, for tentage, 
Approved for issue same date; June 26, 1898, for clothing and equipage, approved 
for issue June 27, 1898. 

J. G. C. Lee, 
Assistant Quorteiinaster-Oeneral, U. S. Army, Chief Qiiartennaster. 

[Second indorsement.] 

Office of Clothing and Equipment Depot, 

Battlefield Station, Ga.. July 37, 189S. 
Respectfully returned to Col. J. Gr. C. Lee, assistant quartermaster-general, 
chief qiiartermaster. Camp George H. Thomas, Ga., with report called for in first 
indorsement. 

Attention is called to the fact that the requisition, approved by chief quarter- 
master June 27. was only presented at this depot July 26, and filled as far as stock 
at depot would permit, as shown in report. The requisition calls for drawers 
(summer); but the regimental (juartermaster refused to take them, saying he 
wanted jean drawers. This we were unable to supply. 

M. Gray Zalinski, 
Captain and Assistant Qiiartennaster, U. S. Army. 

[Third indorsement.] 

Camp George H. Thomas, Chief Quartermaster's Office, 

Chickamauga Park, July 27, 1S9S. 

Respectfully returned to the Quartermaster-General of the Army, inviting 
attention to the preceding indorsement and to the inclosed statement of Captain 
Zalinski of requisitions received, date of issues, and articles issued, and articles 
remaining due which are not on hand or are not now wanted. This statement 
shows that very nearly all of the essential articles were (quickly supplied. All 
requisitions received from this regiment have been in-omptly acted upon by this 
office and filled as far as practicable to do. orders having been given by higher 
aiithority that issues of clothing, etc., to the First Army Corps, under orders to 
the front, should take precedence over troops remaining. Everything possible 
has been done to fully equip the troops of this command throughout without 
delay, and the regimental ciuartermaster of this regiment verbally informed me 
today that with a requisition he is about to make for a few articles of clothing, 
etc. , his regiment will have everytliing it needs. 

The receipt of this telegram was the first intimation received at this office that 
this regiment h?vd any complaint to make regarding not having been supplied with 
clothing, etc. The commanding officer has never spoken or written to me on the 
subject, hence I had no kncjwledge whatever that any of his needs had not been 
met, and from the report above referred to there seems but little cause for 
complaint. 

J. G. C. Lee, 
Colonel and Assistant Quartennaster^General, U. S. Army, 

Chief Quartermaster. 

(One inclosure.) 



[Extract from telegram of Major-General Breckinridge, Inspector-General, to Major-General 
Commanding, dated Chlckamauga, Tenn., May 30, 1898.] 

Lack of uniforms, especially underclothing, noted nearly everywhere, and many 
cumpauies in mixed and some wholly civilian dress, and individuals purchasing 



KEPLY OF QUARTERMASTKR-riKNKK.M, 



FAl 



stores for public purposes, from stationery and light-weight clothing to provisions 
and medical supplies, is one phase of situation here. Regiments have complained 
that sizes of clothing issued, from hats to leggins. sometimes do not fit and the 
(luartermaster will not exchange. Many men are overcome by heat. In tropical 
climate a cheap ventilator seems needed for hat under sweat leather. 



Hdqrs. First Army Corps and Department of the Gulf, 

Chief Quartermaster's Office, 
Camp George H. Thomas, CJiickamauga Park, Ga., Jane 4, ISOS. 
Quartermaster-General of the Army, Wdshington, I). C. 

General: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt from your office ol" a copy 
of General Breckinridge's report of May 30, in relation to clothing of troops at 
this camp. 

It is not at all singular that there should be a lack of uniforms in a large body 
of enlisted men — 45 regiments — thrown into camp fi-om civil life, all within two 
weeks, and inspected before they had an opportunity to l)e supplied. The work 
has been pushed with the utmost vigor, every officer of the Quartermaster's 
Department (only three in all) working fully eighteen hours a day to accomplish 
it. The Quartermaster-General can judge by the amount of clothing sent what a 
task it must have been to isstie it to green troops, wholly unaccustomed to forms 
and usages. It is easy for regiments to complain and inspectors-general to 
criticise, but I venture to say that if they had it to do they wt)uld understand it 
better. It takes long enough to issue now, but if a general exchange business 
were gone into it would be months instead of weeks before the regiments would be 
uniformed. Later on, when first issues are well advanced, it may be possible to 
make exchanges, but not now. 
Yours, respectfulljs 

J. G. C. Lee, 
Colonel and Assistant Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, 

Chief Quartennastir. 



Exhibit L. 

Statement shotting in detail the amounts available for tear exiwnditures April J. 
1898, the appropriations made thereafter, and the amounts avadablr bi/ August 
SI, 1898. 





At command 
of Depart- 
ment lor 
war expend- 
itures 
Apr. 1,1898. 


Appropriated for war expenditures. 


Appropriations. 


Fiscal year 

18'.», act 

Mar. 15, 

1898. 


Deficiency 
act May i, 

isaa. 


Deficiency 

act .luly 7, 

1898. 


Total appro 
priutiMl 


iiegular supplies 

Incidental expenses 

Horses, cavalry and artil- 
lery 

Barracks and quarters 

Army transportation 

Clothin.^ and camp and 


St)71, 18;5. U 
1.50,939.51 

24,570.39 
214,227. 9(1 
825.1.58.20 

771,;i87.67 


$1, 800,1 100. (K) 
(KI0,0<K).(X) 

7.50,(KH).(I() 
2,:300,(KKI.OO 

975, IKK). 00 


§1.000,000.00 
7.50. («)<). 00 

Lr)(K 1.000.(10 
:{(io.ooo.on 

li,IKIO,000.(NI 
10,000,000.00 


S12,.500.()l)0.00 
.5,250,0IP0.UI 

4.000.0IMMIO 
2,4.50.(KKM«t 
'ki. INN).) UNI. Oil 

26,000,0110 00 


:?:1.5.:»Ni.(Mi III 

iS.IMKI.IIOO.Iil) 
."l.lvill («>l 0«l 

:i .')iiii.iiiiii.iiii 
oi.;«i(i,iMi im 

»l.975.0ri0.iii) 


National-defense allot- 
ments, approved April 1 


l,.50ii,<iiiii.iiO 


Bringing home the remains 
of officers and soldiers 
who die abroad, act July 
8, 1898 










30(1,(100.(111 




2,657,456.87 








i:il,005,(X)O.UU 













542 IiWlL.STKlA'riuN OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Statement shoiving in detail the amounts at command of the Department April J. 
1S9S, not available for war expenditures. 



Appropriations. 



Regular supplies 

Incidental expenses 

Horses, cavalry and artillery 

Barracks and quarters 

Army transportation 

tUothing and equipage 

National cemeteries 

Pay of superintendents national cemeteries. 

Construction and repair hospitals ._. 

Shooting galleries and ranges 

Quarters for hospital stewards 

Headstones for graves of soldiers 

Military posts 

Repairing roads to national cemeteries 

Burial of indigent soldiers 



Fort Wayne Military Reservation 

Military post, Fort Riley. Kans 

Military post, Spokane, Wash 

Military post, Bismarck , N. Dak 

Target range, Jefferson Barracks, Mo --. 

Road to the national cemetery, Presidio of San Fran- 
cisco _ 

Road to the national cemetery. Springfield, Mo. _ . . 

Sewerage system , Fortress Monroe 

Improvement of Yellowstone National Park 



Total - 



Fiscal years ending June 30- 



1896. 



S453. 
46, 

0, 

293, 

33, 

1, 



138. 25 
275. 4t) 
558. (50 
5U(). 61 
074. 93 
501.88 
389. m 
152.99 
353.21 
768.40 
8.18 
303.81 
393. 23 
225. 17 
366. 50 



830,901.17 



1897. 



$443,389.97 

29,374.78 

13.51 

86, 566. 81 

309,143.80 

33,393.33 

502. 04 

2.17 

313. 89 

250. 62 

49.87 

60.14 

79,882.03 

.08 

1,000.00 



160. 07 

108.66 

74,53ti.l7 

40, 000. 00 



18.80 



1,001,559.40 



1898. 



$30,509.56 

10,3.58.17 

31 , 634. 86 

308. 77 

206. 79 

14, 473. 27 

190,981.90 

3,345.31 

1,000.00 



18,000.00 



570.00 
3,393.88 



304,572.31 



Appropriations. 



Indefinite. 



Road to the national cemetery at Hampton, Va 

Road to the national cemetery, Springfield, 111 _. 

Military road. Fort Washakie, Wyo. 

Military storehouse, Omaha, Nebr 

Road to the national cemetery, Presidio, San Francisco . 
Pui'chase of land for target i-ange. Fort McPherson, Ga. 

Purchase of buildings at military posts _ 

Post-office, Fortress Monroe, Va 

Hospital, Fort Meade, S. Dak 

Payment to John Finn _ 

National cemetery. Fort Smith, Ark. 

Relief of people in mining regions of Alaska 



14. 
190, 



000.00 
500. 00 
000.00 
019. 13 
100.37 
3.30 
977. 48 
406.67 
433. m 
543. 11 
458. 60 
000.00 



Total . 



337, 432. 09 



Total indefinite 
Total fiscal year 1896 . 



$337,432.09 

Total fiscal year 1897 .'.'. .!"II."!'I"!!""!!I""']!!!! l,(X)l]559!40 

Total fiscal year 1898 304 572.31 



Grand total 3,374,464.97 



REPLY UF THE COMMISSARY-GENERAL, U. S. A.. TO QLESTION.S 
PROPOUNDED BY THE COMMISSION. 



54 :j 



REPLY OF THE COMMISSARY-fiENERAL, V. S. A. TO 
QUESTIONS PROPOUNDED BY THIi (JOMISSION. 



War Department, 
Wasliiiujtou, Octohvr i:. /.s'.v.s'. 
Sir: I have the honor to hand you herewith answers to interrogations pro- 
pounded to the Commissary-General of Subsistence. 
Very respectfully, 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 

The Chairman of the Commission to Investigate tJie War Department, etc., Lemon 
Building, Washington, D. C. 



War Departmext. 
Office Commissary-General of Subsistence, 

Washington. September 30, ISOS. 
The Honorable the Secretary of War, 

(Through the Adjutant-General of the Army.) 
Sir: I have the honor to submit the following answers to the queries of the com- 
mission appointed by the President to investigate the conduct of the War Depart- 
ment in the war with Spain, transmitted under cover of letter from the Adjutant- 
General of 27th instant, viz: 

1. What was the organization of the Siibsistence Department April 1, 189y; the 
number and rank of officers, and nvimber of commissary-sergeants? 
Answer. The organization on the date mentioned was as follows: 



Number. 



Rauk. 



Conimis.sary-(Teneral of Subsistence 

Assistant commissariea-geneial of .subsistence 
Assistant commLssaries-general of subsistence 

Commissaries of subsistence 

Commissaries of subsistence 

Total '. 



Bri jrartier-genpral . 

Colonel. 

Lieutenant-colonel. 

Mj^jor. 

Captain. 



22 



There were then 96 commissary-sergeants in service. 

2. What additions in number and rank of regular officers and what immbor of 
volunteer officers were appointed in the Subsistence Department between Api-il 1 
and August 81? 

Answer. There were no additions to the number of regular officers of the Sul)- 
sistence Department made between April 1 and Aiigust 31 . 1808. Additions to the 
rank of those officers were, however, made under the operation of the first section 
of the act of July 7, 1898 (30 Stat. L., 715), which prescribed: 

" That during the existence of the present war, and for not exceeding one year 
thereafter, every commissary of subsistence, of whatever rank, who shall be 
assigned to the dtrty of ptirchasing and shipping stibsistence supplies at impor- 
tant depots shall have the rank next above that held by him and not alx)ve colonel, 

7833— VOL. 1 35 ^^^ 



546 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

but the number so assigned shall only be snch as may be found necessary, not 
exceeding twelve; also, that the two commissaries of subsistence who may be 
detailed as assistants to the Commissary-General of Subsistence shall have the 
rank of colonel, provided that when any such officer is relieved from such duty 
his temporary rank, pay, and emoluments shall cease, and he shall return to his 
lineal rank in the department." 

There were five regular ofl&cers of the Siibsistence Department commissioned 
in the volunteer service under the act of April 22, 1898 (30 Stat. L. , 361 ) , by which 
they secured additional rank over their regular rank. They were also subject to 
a further increase of this volunteer rank by an assignment to the duties specified 
in section 1 of the act of July 7, 1898, above qiioted. 

Under the second section of the act of July 7, 1898, above referred to, 8 majors 
and 12 captains were added to the Subsistence Department in the volunteer service 
during the existence of the war with Spain and not to exceed one year thereafter. 

There were appointed under the act of April 22, 1898 (30 Stat. L., 361) , 101 volun- 
teer subsistence officers up to the date of August 31. Of these 9 never qualified 
under their commissions. 

3. On Ai^ril 1, 1898, an army of what size was the Subsistence Department pre- 
pared to fully supply with officers and the necessary field rations, and of what 
does that ration consist? 

Answer. The number of subsistence officers in service April 1, 1898, including 
the Commissary-General and his office assistants, was 22. This number, if they 
had all been ordered in the field, would have been sufficient to properly officer 
with subsistence officers one army corps, consisting of the maximum enlisted 
strength authorized by section 9, act of April 22, and one army corps of two-thirds 
maximum enlisted strength aiithorized by that section. From the stores on hand 
in the storehouses at the various military posts at the time, and with such stores 
as they could have hurriedly purchased before quitting the diities they were 
engaged upon, the officers of the Subsistence Department could probably have 
sixpplied an army of 75,000 or 80,000 men with field rations for a period of sixty 
days. The duties which they left behind would have had to be taken xi\) and dis- 
charged by others before the lapse of that period, however, as the duties of pur- 
chasing and shii^ping stores for an army engaged in active oijerations can not be 
left unprovided for nor efficiently performed by officers who are integral parts of 
the active moving forces. 

A "field ration," as understood in the Ai-my, consists of the following compo- 
nent articles: 

Bacon pound. . f 

Hard bread ^ do 1 

Beans -• do ^^ 

Potatoes, onions, and canned tomatoes, when possible do 1 

Coffee, roasted do ^ 

Sugar do ^ 

Vinegar gallon. . y^^ 

Candles pound. _ -^ 

Soap do ^ 

Salt do-... ^ 

Pepper do ^ 

4. Between April 1, 1898, and August 31, what arrangements were made for 
fully supplying with food an army of 250,000 men serving in the field and in camp; 
what was the field ration and what was the ration in cami?? 

Answer. The purchasing commissaries on duty in the i^rincipal purchasing cen- 
ters of the country were already established on Aiiril 1 , and received their orders 
from the Commissary-General of Subsistence on the breaking out of hostilities 
for the procurement and shipment of all subsistence supplies, except fresh beef 



REPLY OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL. 547 

and fresh bread, needed by the various camps and in tht; field. These wiipplies 
were forwarded to siibsisten(;e field deists located contiffiions to the tro<ii)s assem- 
bled in large bodies, the officers in charge of whic-h purchased the fresh l)ecf and 
fresh bread needed. These depots were placed in charge of officers < if the regnlai- 
establishment who had had experience in the purchase and handling of supplies 
in large quantities. The laws and regulations governing the purchase and 
accountability for supplies are intricate and exacting, and the full duties con- 
nected with this branch of the business of the Sulisistence Department are n<it 
properly to be intrusted to newly appointed officers, especially to those devoid <if 
previous military training or wanting in experience in the transaction of govern- 
mental business connected with the Army. 

The duty of obtaining from the field depots the specific articles of food which 
the enlisted men are entitled to belongs to those siibsistence officers who are 
assigned to duty on the staffs of corps, division and brigade commissaries, and to 
the commanders of companies and other organizations. It is their duty, as an 
integral part of the combatant forces, to look out for the wants of the enlisted 
men and make timely requisitions on the field depots for the food supplies ti) 
which their enlisted men are entitled. A large body of subsistence officers f<»r 
staff duty was added to the Subsistence Department by appointments mad<f under 
the act of Congress. They were amply supplied from the field depots, and 
after food supplies for the soldiers had been drawn by them from the depots those 
supplies were under the control of the commanding generals and their staffs and 
were as much in possession of the troojis as were the wagons, horses, and other 
facilities necessary for their distribution among the men. The Commissary- 
General of Subsistence could exei'cise no direct control over the stores nor the 
officers after issue except to require the officers to render accountabilil y papers 
showing whether the disposition made of the stores was warranted Ijy law, 
regulations, and proper orders, and to cause the officers to be charged ^\'ith the 
money value in case of any improi^er application on their part shown by the 
accountability papers. 

The "field ration" was given in answer to question 3. The ration in camp, 
where fresh beef and fresh bread were attainable, was as follows: 

Meat: 

Pork (^V) pounds . ,"„ 

Bacon (y%) - do ^^ 

Fresh beef (y^) -- do.... ff 

-or ^ of fresh beef in canned salmon. .do ^^ 

Flour do... U 

or fresh bread do H 

Vegetables: 
Dry- 
Beans il"- Vu 

Rice - - - ---do ^ 

Fresh — 

Potatoes do.. . ^"5 

Onions -- do -^n 

or canned tomatoes ..- - do 1 

Coffee, green do iV 

Sugar... .--- do.... ^ 

Vinegar - - gallon.. yJc 

Candles... .pound.. ^ 

Soap do.-.. 4t 

Salt - - - -...do.... Ve 

Pepper - - ^^ ^ 



548 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The proportions of the meat ration are subject to variations by commandinL;- 
ofificers, according to the necessity of the service in which troops are engaged. 

5. What arrangements were made for supplying the army in Cuba, the army 
in Porto Rico, and the army in the Philippines, and of what did the ration 
actually consist in each case? 

Answer. The arrangements made were the same as for supplying other troops, 
the entire facilities of the Subsistence Department being utilized in the purchase 
and shipping of subsistence stores to the points of embarkation. Troops on ship- 
board were rationed for the period of the voyages, and, in addition, supplies in 
bulk were forwarded by transports to places of destination, amounting, in the 
case of the army in Cuba, to a four months' supply tor the entire command; in 
that of Porto Rico, to a three months' supply, and in that of the Philippine 
Islands one portion of the expedition was furnished with a four months' supply 
and the remainder with a six months' supply. In the case of the army which went 
to Cuba the rations consisted of the articles enumerated in answer to question 4, 
with the exception that pork was omitted, and hard bread substituted for fresh 
bread, and roasted coffee added in large quantities for the convenience of troops 
when engaged in field operations. The fresh beef sent was fresh roast beef in 
tins. This was supplemented at the earliest practicable date with cargoes of 
refrigerated fresh beef, which reached Santiago the next day after the port was 
opened. Large quantities of stores for sales were also sent. 

In the case of the army which went to Porto Rico the ration consisted of the 
same articles which composed the ration sent to Cuba, including cargoes of 
refrigerated beef. Stores for sales were also sent. 

In the regiments sent to the Hawaiian Islands the ration was essentially thc^ 
same as that furnished the troops in Cuba and Porto Rico, except that where 
the transports were furnished with refrigerating apparatus refrigerated beef was 
supplied on the journey, and where not so furnished beef cattle to as great an 
extent as possible were shipped in pens on the transports for slaughter and use on 
the way. Stores for sales were also sent. 

In the case of the army sent to the Philippine Islands the ration was the same 
as that of the troops for the Hawaiian Islands, including the provision for fresh 
beef on the way. On arrival at Manila refrigerated fresh beef was purchased 
temporarily from the supplies of the navy until contract coixld be made with 
Australian contractors for furnishing the army in the Philippines with regular sup- 
plies of refrigerated beef. Ample supplies of frozen beef and cooled vegetables 
are now on hand there. Stores for sales were also sent in abundance, including 
dried fruits. 

6. Were the troops in the field and those in camps fully supplied at all times 
with proper food? If not, why not? 

Answer. As has been indicated in the foregoing answer to question 4, the 
Commissary-General of Subsistence, acting through his purchasing and shipping 
officers, has been expeditious in ordering subsistence supplies in ample quantities 
to be placed in field depots near every large assemblage of troops, these depots being 
in charge of experienced officers of the regular establishment. This much of the 
task of supplying food to the enlisted men of the Army has been performed by 
the Commissary-General of Subsistence and his ptirchasing and depot officers 
with fidelity to their trust and with all due diligence of execution. Upon the 
first moment of receipt of official information of contemplated movements the 
orders of the Commissary-General of Subsistence have been sent by telegraph to 
the purchasing and shipping officers, and in no individual instance has delay of 
transmission of supplies to the points of concentration occurred, the depots thereat 
being fiilly supplied at all times with jjroper food. 

But it must be borne continually in mind that after food in bulk has been put 
down in a commissary depot located in contiguity to a body of troops the remain- 



REPLY 01'^ <'<)MMISSARY-GENERAL. 541) 

der of the task of conveying the food to the mouths of the mm drvolv.-s upon h s.-t 
of officers acting under the control of the commanding officer < .f tlie troops. Tli.- 
functions of these officers require them in their turn to take the initiative and apply 
to the depot. They can not be said to be under the orders of the Commissary- 
General of Subsistence in matters of detail and of routine. These officers are the 
chief commissaries of corps and divisions, the commissaries of brigades, and 
the commanders of companies and other organizations, who act under^the (j'rders 
of their commanding officers in rendering ration returns and in making rwiuisi- 
tions on the depot commissaries, and in seeing to it that the enUsted men of the 
command get their regular daily individual allowances of food. No dereliction 
of duty on the part of these staff and company officers in the matter of conveying 
the food to the mouths of the men is cognizable by the Commissary-General of 
Siibsistence in the first instance, they being under the exclusive jurisdiction of 
the commanders present, and whose orders they obey. The brigade commander 
directs the kinds of rations to be demanded of the depot commissary an<l orders 
the necessary transportation for its distribution to the company officers of liis 
command. Once in the hands of the brigade commissaries for issue, the only juris- 
diction which the Commissary-General of Subsistence has over the stores is to 
see by the official returns that are rendered by the brigade commissaries tliat the 
stores have been issued and applied in accordance Avith the laws, regulations, and 
proper orders relating thereto. 

If there were individual instances where troops in the field and those in camp 
failed to be fully supplied with i)roper food, tlie reason for the failure is properly 
to be furnished by those who, by failure to take the initiative at the proper time, 
or for any other cause, left the enlisted men under their charge insufficiently pro- 
vided for. 

Subject to these qualifications, the Commissary-General of Subsistence can say, 
in answer to the sixth question, that, so far as his jurisdiction over the matter is 
concerned, troops in the field and those in camps have been fully supplied at all 
times with proper food. 

7. What, if any, complaints in wi'iting have been received by the Commis.sary- 
General in reference to the prompt compliance with requisitions, the lack of food, 
poor character of food, or complaints of any character whatever in reference to 
furnishing supplies or the performance of any duty appertaining to the Subsist- 
ence Department? 

Answer. There have been no complaints from any source or from anyone of fail- 
ure or delay in filling requisitions, or lack of food, or complaints of any charact^-r 
whatever, in reference to furnishing supplies or the performance of any duty api)er- 
taining to the Subsistence Department. I transmit hereA\ith the originals of all 
complaints received, except a few now undergoing investigation, which will be 
furnished when returned to this office. They have all been iiivestigated. as the 
indorsements show, by officers wholly disconnected ^vith this Department, and 
the results are shown by the papers. The return of these original papers to the 
files of this office is requested. 

8. What funds were under the command of the department on April 1 and what 
additional funds were available by August 31 under general or special legisl;iti..n' 
Answer. There were on deposit to the credit of disbursing officrers 

of the Subsistence Department and in their personal possession on 
April 1, 1898, available for disbursement for subsistence of the 

Army - - $13n.04.-..s.s 

There was undrawn in the Treasury on that date 314. 314. 50 

There was appropriated by the act of May 4, 1808. $2,730.64:^.50: by 
the act of June 8. 1898. §5,000,000, and by the act of July 7, 1898, 
$15,367,112.28. a total available for the same puiiiose of 23, 100. 755. 78 



Total. 



23.55'.!. 116. 1(1 



650 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR AYITH SPAIN. 

In addition, the regular annnal appropriation for the support of the Regular 
Army dtiring the fiscal year 1899 was also available and conld have been drawn 
upon, amounting to $1,550,000. It has been drawn upon to the extent of $33,800 
for the x)urchase of siipplies to be used in Alaska after January 1, 1899. 

Having answered the qiiestions of the commission as fiiUj" as they seem to require, 
I beg to inform the commission that I am ready and anxious to furnish it with any 
further information it may desire touching each and every act performed by this 
department up to the present' moment. There is no question that can be asked 
by the commission that I am not ready to answer; any and every document in 
this office or in the offices of any officer of this department is also at the service 
of the commission. In further explanation of the oi)erations of this department 
it seems to me proi^er, and I beg to make the following observations for the 
information of the commission and for such action as the statements may 
suggest. 

At the outbreak of the war there was no provision for baking bread in the field, 
or roasting coffee; neither was there any proper provision for tentage for the 
appropriate shelter of the small quantities of subsistence stores issued from depots 
to brigade commissaries for immediate use, nor for sheltering the stores issued to 
brigade commissaries for companies. It is true tarpaulins were to be provided 
and were expected to answer this purpose. The Commissary-General presented 
this matter to the Secretary of War, who ijromptly authorized the purchase of 
field ovens for baking bi-ead, and coffee roasters, and authorized an allowance of 
tentage for each company, brigade, division, and cordis. The bake ovens have 
proved in every case where there was an opportnnity to use them, as at Jackson- 
ville, Camp Alger, Camp Meade, and other jjlaces, a great success, malring better 
bread than could be purchased in the cities or towns, while at the same time 
making a saving in money which went to the companies for the purchase of other 
articles of food. The supply of coffee roasted, or roasted and ground, was con- 
sidered by the Commissary-General undesirable, because in the case of roasted 
and ground coffee its qiiality could not be guaranteed, and in the case of both 
roasted, and roasted and ground, its strength diminished rapidly. Coffee roasters 
were issued to each company, and undoubtedly, where used, furnished the troops 
excellent coffee, for the quality of green coffee furnished was first-class. Field 
bake ovens and coffee roasters were never supplied to an army before. 

COOKS. 

I have the honor to attach hereto and make a part of this paper, to which I 
invite the special attention of the investigating commission, extracts from the 
annual reports of my predecessors which show that for about twenty-five years 
each and every Commissary-General has urged, every year, ujion Congress the 
propriety and necessity of enlisting a cook for each troop, company, and battery 
in the Army. No action was taken upon these recommendations nor upon the 
recommendations to enlist a baker for every garrison post. When the present 
army was recruited, no provision was made for the enlistment of cooks nor bakers, 
and to this omission I ascribe the fact that the food was frequently ijresented 
in an unpalatable condition, both before Santiago and to some extent in all the 
cami)s in the country. It will be observed that the recommendations of my 
predecessors practically state in advance that without cooks the conditions which 
have prevailed in this war would result. 

I was promoted to the jDosition of Commissary-General on the 3d day of May, 
1898, and as soon thereafter as possible I drafted a bill for the enlistment of 
cooks, realizing as I did the paramount imjjortance of this to the welfare, the 
health, and comfort of the troops. The bill authorizing the enlistment of cooks 
was approved by Congress on the 7th day of July, 1898, but too late to procure 



REPLY OF COMMISSAK'Y-GENEUAI.. ')5\ 

them for the uctive operations in thb field. As stated hy my predecessors, and as 
must be known to eacli and every member of the coumiission, it matters not 
what the food, onality or (piantity. if not properly prepanvl it can not be accept- 
able nor properly serve the ends or purposes for which it is issued. To tlie lack 
of cooks I jittribiite the jnst complaints, to the lack of cooks I attnbiit<' mudi of 
the sickness and ill-health, and the lack of cooks I consider the one weak bnk in 
a chain in every other respect of great strength. 

THE RATION. 

The ration is ample: it is the result of the experience of one hundreil years. It 
has stood the test of the civil war and the nece.ssities of the army under all con- 
ditions of camp, garrison, and the arduous service on the frontier after Inilians. 
Every component of it has been carefully examined, scrutinized, and approved l)y 
the Medical Dex^artment. It combines in its connaonents all the essentials neces.^^ary 
to a man's health and strength, and it can be stated here, and can Ije verified by 
the commission upon inquiry, that those troops who limited themselves tf) eating 
the articles of the ration withstood the climatic changes and the fatigue and 
exposure far better than those who on each pretext and opportunity ate anything 
and everything, including fruits, that came in their way. It is susceptible of 
proof, and can be readily learned by the commission, that the Regular Army 
found the ration not only ample, but generally made savings from it for the 
purchase of other articles of food. 

In this connection it may Ise stated that when, by direction of the President, a 
cablegram was sent to Manila calling upon the officers there to state if they 
desired a change in the ration, they replied they were not prepared to recommend 
a change. And in the more recent case of one regiment at Honolulu asking a 
change General Merriam, with his knowledge and exitei-ience as an old army 
officer, declines to recommend any change in the ration. But, however good the 
quality, however large the quantity, without cooks the ration is and always will 
be a failure. The troops will not be well fed, and dissatisfaction vrUl be the 
inevitable result. 

CONCENTRATED FOODS. 

Numberless concentrated foods have been presented to this office to bo jmr- 
chased for the Army. In many cases they have been submitted and teste<l in 
camps, found agreeable to the taste and palate, and many officers expressed their 
willingness to have them, but in no case has any officer ever stated his willingness 
that any component of the ration shoiild be given up and anyofthe.se concen- 
trated foods substituted therefor. The ration is defined by law. and nr) ad.litiun 
to it is authorized by law, nor is it legally within anyone's authority to ad<l to it. 
I am not a believer in feeding American soldiers with concentrated foods nor with 
emergency rations. My experience as a line officer, serving with troops for 
thirteen years, and my knowledge of the recpiirements of the soldier, doe.s not 
incline me to adding expense and unnecessary additions to the ration. rtr«>at 
pressure, very gi-eat pressure, has been Ijrought to bear upon this office to pur- 
chase these foods. Some of the owners of these articles liave evidenced then- 
hostility to me because I did not purchase them. They have sought by Jigents 
and others to press the purchase of their foods upon me. I have considered, and 
do consider, that the Government is entitled to some considerati..n m this matter 
And while this department, as I will show, has gone beyond the law. purcha.sed 
and gratuitously issued to soldiers what was never contemplati-d by law. it 
preferred to incur the hostility of the parties referred to rather than waste the 
money unnecessarily of the Government even, if it had the power in law so to do. 



552 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITFI RPAIN. 

REQUISITIONS. 

The plan adopted by me for the supply of the Army was to place as near the 
large camps as possible a depot commissary, to the end that the line officers, from 
the commanding general down to the lieutenant, should not be embarrassed or 
hampered -with impedimenta of any kind, or with the care of subsistence suj)plies 
beyond the few days' rations issued to them for immediate use, and also prevent 
duplication and excessive accumulations. This relieved these officers of the neces- 
sity for making requisitions other than on the depot commissaryfor a few days' 
supply, and the Commissary-General, in close toiich and weekly report with the 
depot officers, anticipated their requisitions and in advance of their being made 
supplied them abundantly. When any of the components of the ration or articles 
for sale became depleted, a telegraphic notice to the Commissary-General to that 
effect by the dei)Ot commissary was almost instantly filled, by direction of the 
Commissary-General, by one or more of the purchasing commissaries stationed 
in the large centers and markets of the country. In such cases they were shipped 
frequently within twenty-four hours, and rarely was forty-eight hours required 
for their procurement and shiimient. 

In this connection it is but fair to state that from the beginning of the war to 
the iH'esent date there has not been a single assemblage of troops, great or small, 
in all parts of the country, in every State and Territory of this vast geographical 
area, that has not been promptly and amply supplied with subsistence stores, 
and, when they were gathered into the large camps, were promptly supplied with 
articles for sale in addition. I invite the special attention of the commission to 
this statonent. 

COMPLAINTS. 

From the beginning of the war to the 31st of August there has never been 
received by the War Department a single complaint of subsistence siipplies, (pian- 
tity or quality, from any officer of the Regular or Volunteer armies. When it is 
considered that it is not only the privilege, but the duty of an officer, no matter 
what his grade, to make complaint if ample supjilies are not furnished, and no 
complaints, as I have stated, were made, it would seem, if the stories of starva- 
tion and lack of supplies were true, that each and every officer, from commanding 
general to lieutenant, must either have grossly neglected their duties or been in 
collusion with the Subsistence Department to starve the soldiers. Of course, 
either siapposition is ijreposterous, biit it serves to show to the commission that 
this office was not acquainted with nor informed of any deficiency of supplies. 
Such complaints as were received are forwarded to the commission herewith, with 
the action taken on them , the examination in each case, as the papers themselves 
show, being made by line officers, officers wholly disconnected with this depart- 
ment, and the results show there was no proper cause for the complaints, nor were 
they based upon truth. 

TRANSPORTATION. 

It seems proper to invite the attention of the commission to the fact that this 
department is not authorized by law to pi-ocure transportation for its supplies. It 
purchases the supplies and turns them over to the Quartermaster's Department 
for delivery to the commissary officers on duty with the troops. Neither has this 
department the privilege or authority for loading transports. 

RETURN OF THE SICK FROM SANTIAGO TO THE UNITED STATES. 

Grave complaints have been published in the papers that the transports for the 
sick from Santiago to the United States were not properly provisioned. If there 
is any truth in these published statements, then the faiilt should be placed wher- 
ever it belongs; it siiouid not bo laid at the door of the Subsistence Department, 



REPLY OF rOMMISSARY-GENERAL. 553 

for there was no time when there were not ample supplies at Santiago, not only 
for the transports, bnt for the troops, the Spanish prisoners, and the poor and des- 
titute. Indeed, so great was the abimdance of supplies that many of the trans- 
ports bringing back the sick were fully or partially loaded with subsistence 
supplies intended for Santiago which were never taken out of the ships there. 
In the case of one transport— T/ie Grand Duchess— there were over 1,000 tons of 
subsistence stores brought back by her without being unloaded at Santiago, and 
even then Lieutenant-Colonel Osgood, the depot commissary there, under recent 
date cables this office: "There are supplies enough on hand at Santiago for ten 
times the number of troops here." This, too, while the Subsistence Department 
was feeding all the Spanish prisoners and such of the destitute as the commanding 
general there deemed fit to feed. In face of this condition of affairs, the officers 
in command of the transports, or of the troops on the transports, are responsible 
for any failure to have drawn an abundant supply for the troops on board. 

GENERAL ORDERS 116 AND 136. 

Very shortly after the fall of Santiago, General Shaffer telegraphed to the Sec- 
retary of War asking for $2,000 for the purchase of chickens for the sick. A copy 
of this dispatch was furnished the Commissary-General, who upon its receipt 
instantly waited upon the Secretary of War and informed him his department 
could furnish the money and very much more— as much as was required — for such 
purposes. The Secretary of War expressed surprise, as he had just directed that 
the amount asked for by General Shaffer should be furnished out of his own 
pocket. The Commissary-General stated to the Secretary of War that the rations 
for the sick could be commuted, if approved by him, at 75 cents a day, which 
would be ample to furnish all kinds of delicacies of food, solid and liquid, 
required by the sick and as designated by the surgeons. This authority to com- 
mute the ration at 75 cents was immediately telegraphed General Shaffer, who 
personally expressed to me afterwards his appreciation of the action. 

In anticipation of the requirements of the sick coming from Santiago to Mon- 
tauk Point, I framed General Order 116 (copy herewith), providing for the com- 
mutation of the rations of the sick at 60 cents per day, an amount three times 
gi-eater than the cost of the entire ration, and ample for the purchase in New 
York of all delicacies— articles of food, solid and liquid— that might be needed by 
the surgeons of hospitals in feeding the sick. This order was submitted to the 
Secretary of War, who promptly approved it. It was afterwards amended by 
General Order 136 (copy herewith) , extending its benefits, as will be noted in the 
order. General Wheeler, who was then in command of Montauk Point, was also 
informed that the benefits of General Order 116 could be extended not only to 
the sick in hospitals, but to those men who. while convalescent and not in hos- 
pitals, might be considered as not well and strong enough for the hearty food of 
the ration, and who could be borne as '-sick in quarters." In fact, there was 
practically no limit placed upon the extent to which the order might be carried. 
This order is now in force wherever there are troops of the United States. In 
addition to the articles supplied under this order, the Subsistence Department, by 
direction of the Secretary of War, purchased and gratuitously issued to the sick 
at Montauk, in addition to the ration— in addition to all the benefits flowing from 
General Order 116— the follo^ving articles and amounts of food: 

Ice pounds.- 1,085,200 

Milk - gallons. . 54, 860 

Halibut - -- pounds.. 3,000 

Lima beans. ...do.... 47,047 

Tea do 350 

Apples (canned) .3-pound cans. . 6, 020 



554 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WHMI SPAIN. 

Apples (canned) gallon cans. . 1, 774 

Apples (evaporated) pounds. . 21, 550 

Apricots (evaporated) do 14, 500 

Bntter do 34,799 

Corn (canned) cans. . 13, 889 

Cocoa pounds. . 1, 080 

Soda crackers do 9, 950 

Ham (sugar cured) do 19, 927 

Evaporated cream cans. . 31, 140 

Oatmeal .pounds. . 31 , 985 

Peaches (evaporated) do 18, 025 

Peaches (canned) cans. . 14, 973 

Pears (canned) do 14, 869 

Pease (canned) do 16, 128 

Prunes pounds. . 9, 925 

Beef soup cans. . 7, 500 

Chicken soup do 11, 490 

Pickles gallons.. 7,100 

Oranges .crates. . 300 

Lemons do 150 

Eggs dozen . . 53 , 070 

It may be stated in this connection that there is no aiithority in law for th(> 
ptii'chase or gratiiitous issue of these articles of food. This fact, however, was 
well known to the Secretary of War. who nevertheless insisted that anything 
whatsoever necessary for the comfort and health of the troops should be provided, 
whether authorized by law or not. I invite the special attention of the commis- 
sion to these facts in connection with the published stories in the papers of starva- 
tion of the troops at Montauk Point. It may be appropriate to say here that the 
sick were hungry, but it is a well-known fact that typhoid patients are always 
hungry, and that to feed them is to murder them. 

PERISHABLE STORES. 

In the vast quanity of perishable stores purchased by this department, sub- 
jected to exposure to the summer suns of Southern climates, detained in hot rail- 
road cars, and often exposed to the sun before being warehoused because of lack 
of them, it is not to be wondered at that some of the articles should deteriorate 
and at time of issue some parts of them be unfit for issue. This occurred in 
some instances, not many, but in each and every case where any article was 
found not absolutely of good quality the deteriorated articles were promjjtly 
replaced, and no command was at any time obliged to keep what was not entirely 
fit for use. Indeed, so anxious was I upon this point that some bacon only 
slightly deteriorated was ordered sold by me in Chattanooga, and I have it from 
merchants of that place that the very bacon was being sold to citizens and iised 
by them. In the same way some flour which, from being stored in warehouses 
where grain had been, became slightly weevily, was also ordered sold, so that 
there could be no jDossible comjjlaint on the part of the volunteers. Had it been 
a case of the Regular Army the Government would not have been subjected to 
any loss entailed by the sale of these articles. The flour would have been sieved 
and used, the bacon overhauled and the good parts issued. 

REGIMENTAL AND COMPANY OFFICERS AND THE RATION. 

From statements and reports that have reached this office it is evident that due 
attention to the cooking and care of the ration was not paid by many regimental 
and company officers. In one case that has come to the knowledge of this office 



REPLY OF (COMMISSARY -GENERAL. 



i55 



a command moving from Camp Alger, which had drawn its supplies, moved oif 
in the train, leaving behind them their rations, packed and ready for them on the 
platform of the railroad station. In conseqnence, they had nothing to eat that day 
nor part of the next day, which fact was fully exploited in the newspapers as a 
case of starvation. 

WMle I am led to believe from what I have heard from oflBcers that due and 
proper care of the ration and cooking was not given by the regimental and com- 
pany officers, I am still firmly of the belief that no amount of care or attention 
on their part could overcome the lack of cooks, could overcome the inability of 
the men to cook— men who never cooked before, did not wish to cook then or now, 
do not expect to cook when they leave the service— men who look upon it as oiten- 
sively objectionable to cook, and who, even when they tried, failed utterly to 
either cook proper quantities or to present the food in anything like acceptable or 
palatable shape. Nevertheless, this condition might have been improved if that 
same attention to the care, preseiwation. and cooking of the ration had been given 
by the volunteer officers that is considered in the Regular Ai-my one of the first and 
imperative duties of an officer. I can not too strongly impress my firm convic- 
tion that most of the trouble lies in this want of cooks, and the fact that there 
have been practically no complaints from the Regular Army of food, and large 
savings made, emphasizes this \dew of the situation. While it is a well-estab- 
lished fact that volunteer troops threw away they rations before Santiago, there 
are no reports, that I have heard, of the regulars having done so. It is believed, 
however, that if this war had continued for three or four months longer, these 
inexperienced officers and soldiers would have learned to care for their rations 
and for themselves. 

SUPPLYING TROOPS IN CAMPS. 

At all the camps in the United States prompt provision was made for the sup- 
ply of ^resh beef, fresh bread, and fresh vegetables. These articles were furnished 
in each case, though in one or two instances, I am informed, volunteer officers 
failed to call on the depot for them until reminded by the depot officer that they 
should do so. As an illustration, at Camp Alger, I am informed, a colonel com- 
manding excused his failure to call for or receive fresh beef by stating that he 
had no saw with which to cut the beef. There are many instances of ignorance 
or negligence somewhat similar to this. 

The travel ration was used only when absolutely necessary, and fresh beef, 
fresh bread, and vegetables supplied instantly when the troops went into camp. 
While the Subsistence Department was pro\ading in this way for the very many 
large camps in the United States, Santiago. Porto Rico. Manila, and Hawaii, it 
was also supplying 135 military posts in the United States, from which a complaint 
has never been heard. 

MOVEMENTS OF TROOPS. 

I take pleasure and satisfaction in the positive statement that from the begin- 
ning of the war to the present moment, however short the notice— and many 
times it was very short— there has never been a movement of troops, never a 
body of troops, great or small, retarded or delayed one single moment by reason 
of lack of subsistence supplies. I ask the closest examination of this statement, 
and as an illustration of the promptness with which troops were supplied and 
fitted out, I beg to state that this department was notified on Wednesday that the 
ships would leave New York for Porto Rico on SatiTrday, touching at Newport 
News, and in that time the Subsistence Department purchased, shipped, and 
placed on transports the entire supply for the expedition to Porto Rico. and_, 



556 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

indeed, some of the supplies were left by the ships on the wharves becaii3e they 
had not space for them. I mention this as an illustration of how work was done 
by this department in this war. 

FITTING OUT EXPEDITIONS. 

The expeditions to Manila, Porto Rico, and Hawaii were fitted out by the Sub- 
sistence Department, under the special instructions of the Commissary-General, in 
siTcli a manner that the commanding generals and the officers under them were 
not subjected to any trouble, responsibility, or inconvenience of any sort. These 
exjieditions drew merely the rations to last them to their point of destination. 
The Subsistence Department did the rest: shipped in bulk and delivered at their 
destinations ample supplies for the periods of time already stated in this i^aper, so 
that on arrival they had simply to draw again their stores as required. The views 
and wishes of the commanding generals were solicited by the Commissary-Gen- 
eral and complied with, to the end that there should be as complete satisfaction 
as possible. 

FRESH VEGETABLES. 

Some of the shipments of potatoes and onions spoiled by undue exposure to the 
excessive heat, but were promptly replaced as fast as transportation could be 
procured. 

HARD BREAD. 

It appears that some of the hard bread issued at Santiago was not in good con- 
dition. This was due to exposure to rains, coupled with excessive heat. The 
bread was fresh, and if it had not been wet by rains would not have deteriorated. 
There was, however, an ample supply of it that was not injured by rain, but 
limited transportation prevented its being brought up to the firing line to replace 
that damaged. 

VOLUNTEER COMMISSARIES. . 

There has been a great deal said in the newspapers about the inefiiciency of the 
inexperienced staff officers. I desire to state for the information of the commis- 
sion that with a few exceptions, I have found the volunteer commissaries to be 
zealous, painstaking, and anxioiis to perform their duties. Indeed, it is with 
pleasiTre that I testify to their general devotion to duty. Considering that they 
were just from civil life, without any previous experience in military matters, I 
take pleasure in stating that I think they have done marvelously well. Some of 
them have worked from early until late and under most trying circumstances. 
One, Capt. Morton J. Henry, was shot while on the firing line discharging to the 
utmost of his ability his diities as a commissary. Others of them were close up 
to the firing line distribiiting as best they could subsistence supplies to the troops, 
and thereby incurring quite as much danger as any of them. 

SUBSISTENCE OFFICERS OF THE REGULAR ESTABLISHMENT. 

The officers of the regular establishment have worked faithfully, and at times 
day and night. Some of them are now broken down and on sick leave because of 
their labors. There is no language at my command to do jiTstice to their efforts 
in in'omptly carrying out the orders of the Commissary-General, in the perform- 
ance of which duty they knew no such thing as office hours or Siindays. When 
the commission stops to consider the vast amount of supplies purchased by them, 
the marvelous rapidity with which troops were enrolled, miistered, concentrated, 
and moved, the hundreds of places of rendezvous in each State and Territory of 
this vast geographical aiea, and the success which attended the meeting of the 
requirements of these troops, the commission can jiidge foi- itself the extent of 



REPLY OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL. 557 

lal)()r performed by the few officers of the regiilar establishment. So important 
was the work performed by each of them that the Commissary-General has been 
nnable to sjmre any from his post of duty and has been obliged because thereof 
to carry on the vast business of his office with but one assistant, whereas in times 
of peace, with but 25,000 men in the Ai-my, all located at well-regvilated, perma- 
nent posts, his predecessors have had generally three, and never less than two 
assistants. 

I consider the work of these officers the highest possible form of patriotism. 
They ({uietly, honestly, and successfully met every demand made upon them, and 
I profoundly trust their labor may be appreciated. 

QUALITY OF FOOD FURNISHED BY THE SUBSISTENCE DEPARTMENT. 

I desire to state to the commission that the quality of food furnished the troops 
was not only good, but without going into fancy articles was first-class. I woiild 
respectfully suggest that the commission caiises to be brought before it from any 
or all of the camps or posts in the United States where the food now is samples 
of each and every article of the comx^onents of the ration and of the articles for 
sale. I further suggest that this be done by the commission itself, to the end 
that the samples shall come to them direct, and from such camp or camps as they 
may see fit to select fi-om, to the end that they shall have positive knowledge 
beyond i)eradventure of doiibt that the articles they receive are precisely such as 
are and have been issued to the troops. 

In regard to the canned roast beef, it is respectfully suggested that it is largely 
used by the armies in Europe and is the best substitute, everything considered, 
that is Iniown for fresh beef. Canned corned beef is used only for short journeys 
on railroad cars. It is not considered fit for troops on a march, as it engenders 
thirst. It is, however, supplied in large quantities, and when preferred can be 
obtained by the troops. 

In addition to the foregoing, I am qtiite ready to furnish any information in 
this office or the offices of any of the commissaries that may be desired by the 
commission. I have not deemed it necessary or appropriate to refer to the diffi- 
culties encountered in the ijrompt, ample supply of the troops by this department. 
The fact that they were supplied and the difficulties were successfully surmounted 
seems to me sufficient. 

I attach hereto and make a part of this paper a statement showing the amount 
of subsistence supplies purchased by this department and distributed to the various 
commands in the United States and elsewhere from the 1st of April, 1898, to the 
31st of August, 1898. 

Very respectfully, Chas. P. Eagan, 

Commissary-General, United States Army. 



558 investi(;ation of conduct of war with spain. 



MEMORANDUM TO ACCOMPANY REPORT OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL CHARLES P. 
EAGAN TO INVESTIGATING COMMITTEE. 

ARMY COOKS AND BAKERS. 

On November 8, 1876, the Commissary-General submitted the following views 
and suggestions upon the subject of army cooks and bakers, stated that the effi- 
ciency of the Army would be increased and desertions lessened were a cook 
enlisted for each company, with extra pay — say $4 in excess of the pay of a 
private — and schools for the instruction of cooks established at recruiting depots 
at Fort Columbus, N. Y., and Columbus Barracks, Ohio, and that bakers should 
be especially enlisted with extra pay — say $4 — and assigned to posts as commissary 
sergeants. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, the Commissary- 
Geu'eral trailed attention to the above remarks on army cooks and bakers, with 
the view that the attention of Congress might be invited to it, and also recom- 
mended that should schools for cooks be established at recruiting depots, bakers 
shoiild also be instructed at the same schools. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1878, he mentioned the 
fact that a board had been appointed to make the experiments in army cooking 
and prei^are a manual for army cooks. 

Again in his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1879, attention 
was called to the subject above mentioned, iirging the Secretary of War to invite 
the attention of Congress to the fact that the Army needed the enlistment of men 
who have an aptitude for cooking, and the establishment of a school for their 
ediication in the economy of the kitchen. 

'•An important aid to good soldiering is good cooking. This can not be 
obtained without good cooks, and good cooks can not be obtained withoiit educa- 
tion and adequate compensation. If one company cook, while actually perform- 
ing duty as such, were allowed 50 cents advance on his clothing allowance and 
a monetary compensation of 30 per cent per day, to be paid either from the Sub- 
sistence Department or the Quartermaster's Department, a class of men would be 
secured to the Army who would economically use the ration, cook it acceptably, 
and be anxious to retain their i)osition for the extra compensation bi'ought, whilst 
at present they are only glad to be relieved from kitchen duty for ligliter work." 

The Commissary-General believes the subject one of the utmost importance in 
connection with the health, comfort, and efficiency of enlisted men of the Army. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year, dated Octobel* 11, 1880, he stated that 
the Manual of Army Cooks had been printed and distributed to the army, and 
invited the attention of the Secretary of War to his remarks made in the annual 
report for the i^receding year, ^.nd urgently recommended that the attention of 
Congress be invited to the subject as one of the utmost importance, both in an 
economical and sanitary point of view. He also suggested that at the anniial 
encampments of the State militia it woiald be well if the troops were furnished, 
with the army ration by the States and cooked for the companies by men detailed 
from the companies for the purpose, to be done by the assistance and under the 
supervision of army cooks from the army cooking schools, shoxild such be estab- 
lished and the State authorities so desire. He also stated that at some, if not all, 



REPLY OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL. 559 

the encampments of State militia the food of the troops was furnished by caterers 
especially employed for that puri)ose, and the cost in some cases was stated to 
have been §1.50 per day, while the cost of the army ration was less than 20 cents. 
Disregarding, however, the cost of the food, he considered it a matter of great 
importance tliat militia in camj^s of insti'uction should learn what the army 
ration is and how it should be cooked and served, especially in the field. 

In his annual report for the year, dated October 10, 18S1 , he again repeated his 
recommendation contained in his report for 1879, and submitted a draft of a law 
intended to accomplish the object desired, to wit: 

" That there shall hereafter be enlisted, for each battery of artillery, troop of 
cavalry, and company of infantry in the service, under such regulations as the 
Secretary of War shall prescribe, a comijetent person as cook, whose clothing 
allowance shall be those of a private soldier, but whose pay proper shall be at the 
rate of $22 per month, whose duty it shall be to cook the rations of the battery, 
troop, or company, under such regulations as may be prescribed under section 
1174, Revised Statutes: Provided, That cooks so enlisted shall not be entitled 
under any circumstances to extra-diity pay: And provided, further. That the 
introduction of the grade into the Army shall not have the effect of increasing 
the strength of the Army beyond the number of men now authorized by law." 

In his annual report for the year ending June 30, 1883, he pays particular atten- 
tion to cooks and bakers, and in speaking of flour he says that it is often required 
for use in a company kitchen, but under existing regulations all the flour rations 
drawn by companies must be turned into the post bakery, the savings of which 
do not go to the company, but to the post fund, and what flour is required in the 
kitchen has to be purchased out of the company fund, raised by savings on other 
parts of the ration. It is well known that the ration of floiir allowed by law and 
issued by the Siabsistence Department is ample, biit only about two-thirds of it 
x-eaches the soldier. Referring to the matter of cooks and bakers, he states they 
are essential for preserving the health and securing the comfort and efficiency of 
the troops. It matters not how great in quantity or how good in quality may be 
the raw articles of food furnished by the Subsistence Department, the soldier will 
not be sufficiently or properly and wholesomely subsisted if the articles are not 
properly cooked. The best floiar in the hands of a bad baker will jDroduce bad 
bread, and the best of meat and vegetables will, from the hands of a poor cook, 
afford the soldier only unwholesome and uni)alatable food. He favored special 
enlistment of men as cooks and bakers, and of cooks he favored one for each com- 
pany, troop, or battery, and of bakers one for each garrison, military post, or 
station. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30. 1884, he again ventured 
to invite attention to the importance of providing for the enlistment of cooks 
and bakers for the Army, as the year before. The present system of temporary 
details from the small company strength, subject to frequent changes, for cooks 
and bakers, is vicious in the extreme for gaiTison service. The men so detailed 
are inexperienced, and, from the temporary nature of the employment, they take 
but little interest in it and frequently look upon the work with disgust. The 
natiiral result is good materials transformed into absolutely unwholesome food 
by bad baking or cooking. He further recommended that the net proceeds of the 
savings on flour in post bakeries be divided among the troops contribiating the 
flour in proportion to their contributions, and that none of such savings be 
diverted to post funds. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1885, he reiterates what 
he has heretofore said in iweceding reports. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30. 1886, he again invites 
attention to the subject of cooks and bakers for the Army, and urges the enlist- 
ment of cooks and bakers, as in the report for 1881. That the Army of the United 



II 



560 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OP WAR WITH ^^PAIN. 



States is provided with a ration ample in (piantity and excellent in quality has 
been demonstrated in war as well as in peace, bnt the articles composing it are 
furnished in the raw state, and must be further prepared by the cook or the 
baker. Bake ovens, kitchens, ranges, cooldng stoves, and utensils are now pro- 
vided by the Grovernnient, but no adequate provision has been made for their 
use in the best manner. Everything is provided save one, and that one is the 
skilled hand absolutely necessary to transform the raw materials into good, 
wholesome, palatable food — the cook or the baker. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1888, he renewed his 
recommendations made in his several preceding reports for the enlistment of 
cooks and bakers. He did not favor large and expensive cooking establishments 
at military iiosts, but believed that each company should do its own cooking and 
that the company messes should be continued, and that it would not be wise to 
substitiite for them post messes, where the cooking would be done on so large and 
different a scale that it would all have to be changed in time of war or in field 
service. The company mess in garrison is, and should be, a school preparatory 
to the field mess, while a large and expensive post mess would be preparatory to 
no other, but would take away the important school and training inherent in the 
company mess. 

In his annual report for the year ending June 30, 1889, he reiterated what he 
had stated in his annual report of the preceding year. 

In his annual report for the year ending June 30, 1890, he again called the atten- 
tion of the Secretary of "War to the matter of enlistment of cooks and bakers, as 
heretofore. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1891, he again renewed 
the recommendations so frequently made by his predecessors, and commended 
the matter to the special attention of higher authorities, believing it to be one of 
the greatest importance for the welfare, comfort, and efficiency of enlisted men 
of the Army for the enlistment of cooks and bakers for the Army. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1892, he again renewed 
the recommendations made by preceding Commissaries-General for the enlistment 
of cooks and bakers, and cited the reasons heretofore given for their enlistment. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1895, he called attention to 
recommendations made in the years from 1876 to 1892 for legislation which would 
authorize the enlistment of cooks and bakers for the military service, and hoped 
that the Secretary of War might find it consistent to urge upon Congress the de- 
sirability of passing the necessary laws for the enlistment and payment of cooks 
and bakers needed for the service. He cited the fact that in the Navy stewards, 
cooks, and boys are enlisted for the service of officers and crew, and suggested that 
to perform similar work in cooking and baking for the enlisted force of the Army 
skilled cooks and bakers should be enlisted for these special services whose pay 
should be fixed by law. For instance, there should be a cook and assistant cook 
for every company, and at posts at which general messes are established or main- 
tained a chief cook at every post, and one baker and assistant baker, with addi- 
tional assistant bakers not exceeding one for every 200 rations of bread Ijaked per 
day in excess of 300. The pay of the chief cook and the baker should be $30 each; 
the cook, $25; assistant baker, .$18, and assistant cook $16 per month. The expenses 
of managing bakeries have become greater' from the fact that the bakers and 
assistants are now allowed extra-duty pay at the increased rates now paid to all 
classes of extra-duty men. This extra pay is paid out of the money received from 
the sale of flour and bread. 

In his annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1896, he again renewed 
his recommendations for the enlistment of cooks and bakers, and cited pay as in 
1895. 



j RErLY OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL. 561 

! ARMY COOKS. 

After many unsuccessful attempts, covering a period of twenty years, to secure 
the passage of a law in the interest of cooks and bakers, Congi-ess at its last 
session enacted a law, approved July 7, 1898, authorizing and directing the enlist- 
ment of cooks for every company, battery, and troop in the Regular and Volunteer 
armies of the United States, as a part of the authorized enlisted strength thereof , 
and to have the rank and pay of a corporal of the army of the service to which he 
belonged, and accordingly on the 12th day of July, 1898, instructions governing 
their enlistment were jrablished in G. O. 94, H. G. A., of 1898. 

BAKERS. 

The recommendation for appointment of bakers failed to receive due considera- 
tion by Congress at its last session, but upon his request to the honorable the 
Secretary of War, July 9, 1898, authority was given him to employ such number 
of civilian bakers as might be necessary to bake the bread for the Army, and to be 
paid out of the appropriation ' ' Subsistence of the Army. " Accordingly, on the loth 
day of July, a circular letter was issued by this office and sent to all ofiftcers of this 
department giving them detailed instriictions governing the ditties of bakers. On 
the 12th day of July, 1898, 12 were appointed at salaries ranging from $50 to $60 
per month, and sent to Santiago. Cuba, for duty. On July 24, 6 were apiiointed 
and sent to Porto Rico. Many of them returned to the States after two months' 
service and were discharged. 

SECRETARIES REPORTS PROM 1876 TO 1898. 

In the anniial report of Secretary of War J. D. Cameron, for the year 1876, no 
mention is made of cooks and bakers. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War George W. McCrary, for the year 1877, 
no mention is made of cooks and bakers. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War George W. McCrary, for the year 1878, 
no mention is made of cooks and bakers. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War George W. McCrary, for the year 1879, 
he repeats the Commissary-General's recommendation with regard to previous 
recommendations that cooks and bakers should be specially enlisted, extra pay 
given them, and schools established for their instruction. Also invites attention 
to that portion of the report of the Board of Officers on Army Cooks, which relates 
to this subject. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War Alexander Ramsey, for the year 1880, 
he repeats the recommendation of the Commissary-General that army cooks and 
bakers should be enlisted and cooking schools established, and recommends an 
appropriation of $1,000 for printing Manual of Army Cooks. Also states that 
in the annual encampments of State militia the militiamen should accustom 
themselves to the use of the army rations, the importance of which will be appre- 
ciated by those who have had experience with volunteers during their first service 
in the field. 

In the anmial report of Secretary of War Robert T. Lincoln, for the year 1881, 
he invites attention to the remarks of the Commissary-General of Subsistence in 
reference to the introduction of cooks into the Army to prepare the rations of the 
companies, troops, and batteries, under such regulations as may be prescribed 
under section 1174, Revised Statutes, and recommends same. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War Robert T. Lincoln, for the year 1883, 
1>SS2, no mention is made of army cooks and bakers. 
7833— VOL. 1 30 



5G2 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH Sl'AIN. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War Robert T. Lincoln, for the year 1883, 
he states that the Commissary-General of Subsistence renews pre^^ous recom- 
mendations looking to improvement in the cooking of the food supplied by the 
Subsistence Department to the Army, and suggests that if provision were made 
by law for the special enlistment of men for cooks and bakers the health, comfort, 
and efficiency of the troops would be materially benefited thereby. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War Robert T. Lincoln, for the year 1884, 
he states that the Commissary-General of Subsistence again invites attention to 
the importance of providing for the enlistment of cooks and bakers for the Army, 
and concurs with him in his belief that such a course would add much to the 
comfort as well as the health of the soldiers, who must now in many instances 
depend upon the cooking of enlisted men who have no special aptitude for the 
work. 

In the annual report of Secretary of War William C. Endicott, for the year 1885, 
he states that the Commissary-General renews his recommendation for a resolu- 
tion authorizing the enlistment of a cook for each troop and battery and for each 
general depot for recruits and a baker for each garrison post in the service. Is 
convinced that sMUed men of this character are necessary for preserving the 
health and promoting the health, comfort, and efficiency of the enlisted men of 
the Ai-my. and the Secretary most heartily concurs in this recommendation and 
trusts that the necessary authority will be granted by Congress, as it is of the 
first importance to the health and contentment of the men that their food is well 
cooked and properly served. 

In his annual report for the year 1886 Secretary of War William C. Endicott 
states that the army ration is ample in quantity, excellent in iiuality. and the 
utensils for cooking are aU provided, but it is not cooked as it should be for want 
of proper skill. It is one of the great wants of the service, as reported both by 
the Commissary-General and the Surgeon-General, and nothing would add as 
much to the comfort of the troops as a corps of good cooks. Accordingly the 
Secretary unites with the Commissary-General in recommending that legislative 
authority be granted for the enlistment of one cook for each troop, battery, and 
company, and each general depot of recruits, and a baker for each garrison post. 
In his' annual report for the year 1887 Secretary of War William C. Endicott 
makes no mention of cooks and bakers. 

In his annual report for the year 1888 Secretary of War William C. Endicott 
renews former recommendations that authority be obtained from Congi-ess for 
the enlistment of a cook for each troop, battery, and company, and each general 
depot of recruits, and of a baker for each gaiTison post. 

In his annual reports for the years 1889-90 Secretary of War Redfleld Proctor 
makes no mention of army cooks and bakers. 

In his annual report for the year 1891 Secretary of War Redfield Proctor makes 
no mention of army cooks and bakers. 

In his annual report for the year 1892 Secretary of War S. B. Elkins again 
invites attention to the great importance of having cooks and bakers enlisted for 
the Army, considering them essential to the health, comfort, and efficiency of the 
troops. Recommends that their enlistment be authorized by law. 

In his annual report for the years 1898, 1894. and 1895 Secretary of War Daniel 
S. Lamont makes no mention of army cooks and bakers. 

In his annual report for the year 1896 Secretary of War Daniel S. Lamont 
states that the consolidated mess for all the men of a garrison has many features 
to recommend it, but it has not met with general approval. For two years past 
all new barracks built or planned pro^'ide for company cooking and messing. 

In his annual report for the year 1897 Secretary of War R. A. Alger makes no 
mention of army cooks and bakers. 

Respectfully submitted. _ 

Chas. p. Eagan, 

Commissary-General of Subsistence, United States Arviy. 



REPLY OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL. 5C)3 

GENERAL ORDERS 116 AND 136. 

,,, ^ War Department, 

jtEneral Orders, ) a ^ /^ • r^ 

-j^ i Adjutant-General s Office, 

' Washington, August If), 7.9.95. 

The following is published to the Army for the information and guidance of all 
3oncerned: 

Medical officers in charge of general hospitals, hospital trains, hospital trans- 
ports, and the hospital at the camp at Pablo Beach, Fla., and at the hospital at 
3he cami) at Montauk Point, N. Y., will be allowed to expend from the appro- 
priation •' Subsistence of the Army," for the diet of the enlisted men undergoing 
medical treatment under their charge, at the rate of not exceeding 60 cents per 
[nan per day for the period each is undergoing treatment. The allowance so made 
will constitute a special fund in the hands of the medical officer in charge, from 
which will be purchased the entire diet of the enlisted men while undergoing 
medical treatment. These purchases will be restricted to articles of food, solid 
ind liquid, the quantities and varieties of which will be determined by the medical 
officer in charge. 

Chief commissaries of departments will transfer to medical officers in charge 
such subsistence funds as may be estimated for by the latter for carrying oiit the 
objects of this order. 

There will be rendered monthly to the Commissary-General of Subsistence, by 
the medical officers concerned, regular accounts current siipported by vouchers 
3ho%ving the aiiplication of these fiTuds, and regular returns of subsistence stores 
accounting for the articles of food purchased and issued. There will be submitted 
with each monthly return a tabular statement showing the number of patients 
piesent during the month as shown by the hospital records, and the money value 
of the articles issued to and consumed by them. The statement will be so aiTanged 
as to show the actual cost of subsistence per man per day for the month. 

Transfers of subsistence funds from one hospital, train, or transport to another 
without authority of the Commissary-General of Subsistence, and the i^urchase 
from STTbsistence funds of articles other than food intended for diet of the sick, 
are proliibited. 

This order will go into effect at once, and all surplus funds in the hands of 
medical officers in charge, arising from the commutation of rations heretofore 
allowed to enlisted men undergoing treatment under their charge, will be taken 
up on their accounts current for the month of August, and all articles purchased 
from such commutation remaining on hand unconsumed on receipt hereof will 
be taken up on their returns of subsistence stores for that month. 

By order of the Secretary of War: 

H. C. CoRBiN, Adjutant-General, 



^ War Department, 

General Orders, , Adj^t.^nt-General's Office, 

^^- ^^^- ' WasJnngton, Sejytember 3, 1898. 

The following is published to the Army for the information and guidance of all 
concerned: 

The provisions of General Orders, No. 116, War Department, Adjutant-GeneraFs 
Office, August 10, 1898, are hereby extended to include all field and post hospitals. 

In this connection it is to be understood that General Orders. No. 116, does not 
do away with the hospital fund, but applies to patients who, in the opinion of the 
surgeon, are too sick to use the ration. For i^atients that can use the ration and 
for the Hospital Corps savings can be made as heretofore. Nor does the order 
take away the privilege of using funds and supplies furnished by aid societies, the 



564 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

using of which is left to the discretion of the surgeon, as is also the qtiestinr 
whether or not there should be separate tables, kitchens, etc., having in mind tht 
fact that the subsistence fund is to be used for those patients who need special 
articles of diet. General Orders, No. 116, is further intended to place in the hands ; 
of the surgeon a fund from which necessary articles of diet for patients too sici 
to use the ration can be purchased, without waiting for the formation of a hospital 
fund, and at the same time to prevent a large hospital fund accming fi-om those 
too sick to use the ration. 

To sum up, the allowance of subsistence funds is intended to furnish the sur- 
geon with the necessary funds for the purchase of such articles of the diet as ir 
his discretion he may find necessary. It is not intended for those well enough tc 
use the ration, nor is it intended to furnish the Hospital Corps with delicacies and 
special articles of the ration which could not be ptirchased from their own savings. 

By order of the Secretary of War: 

H. C. CoRBiN, Adjutant-General. 

INCLOSURES. 

No. 26864. Letter from Charles H. Dickson, Washington, D. C, dated May S5, 
1898, stating that many soldiers, notably District of Columbia and Sixth Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers, complain that rations served at Camp Alger, Va., were if 
insufficient, poor, and very poorly cooked. Complaint, he tmderstands. is general jj 
at the camp. (One inclosure.) 'g 

No. 27086. Letter from Hon. Rowland B. Mahany, M. C, dated Washington, jj 
May 24, 1898, in regard to suffering of members of the Sixty-fifth New York Vol- j 
unteers at Camp Alger. Great privation from want of food and water. (Press j( 
copy letter Secretary of War inclosed.) 

No. 28462. Letter from Hon. Peter J. Otey, M. C, dated Washington. D. C.,K 
June 11, 1898, and June 23, 1898. (One inclosure.) In regard to rations of Third' j 
Virginia Volunteers at Camp Alger, Va., insufficient, consisting of only hard L 
bread and salt pork, with beans occasionally. 

No. 28730. Secretary to President, dated June 15, 1898, sends telegi-am from E.\^ 
B. Carey, stating that his brother, a member of the Sixty-ninth New York at 
Tampa, is being slowly starved. (Three inclosures.) 

No. 28783. Letter of Hon. Morris Page, M. C, dated June 16, 1898, inclosing 
letter from Julia E. L. Moore, dated Duhith, Minn., June 8, 1898, regarding the 
poor (itiality of food furnished troops at Chickamauga, Ga. (Two inclosures.) 

No. 29680. Letter from Mrs. M. D. Blake, Chicago, El., dated July 27, 1898, 
with regard to rations at Fort McPherson, Ga. Thanks the President and Secre- 
tary of War for their prompt action, and says that the soldiers are now well satis- 
fied with their food and have no complaint to make. 

No. 30156. Mrs. George Hopkins, Savoy, 111., June 29, 1898, complains that men 
of the Fourth Illinois Volunteers are being starved through the negligence of the 
officers in charge of the provisions at Jacksonville, Fla. (Copy— original having 
been returned to Mrs. Hopkins by the Secretary of War.) 

No. 31518. Letter of Lieut. Henry Roach, Thirty-tmirth Michigan, dated at sea, 
June 27, 1898, referring to statement made in Detroit paper that the Thirty-fourth 
Michigan were fed on moldy bread and rotten beef, and that iipon examination 
officers and men of regiment found no just cause for complaint to exist. 

No. 32159. Letter from M. L. Tanner, Red Cross Society, dated Washington, 
August 3, 1898, complaining of the quality of food served troops at Camp Alger. 

No. 32279. Letter from Charles H. Adams, dated Pasadena, Cal., June 17. 1898, 
regarding insufficiency of rations furnished the Seventh California Volunteer 
Infantry at Camp Merritt. 

No. 27422. Copy of telegram from Maj. Gen. John R. Brooke, to Secretary of 
War. dated Chickamauga Park, Ga., May 31, 1898, stating there is no reason 



REPLY OF COMMISSARY-GENERAL. 



565 



i 



i\^hatever for complaint as to qtiantity and kind of food fnraished the troops in 
Ms camp. This in answer to Secretary of Wai-'s telegram asking what are the 
'acts. Press copy of Secretary's telegram and General Brooke's telegram inclosed. 
jTwo inclosures.) 

No. 31174. September 7 telegram from Commissary-General to Smith, commis- 
sary: '-It has been reported that the Sixteenth Pennsylvania has been receiving 
iveeA-illy bread. Is that so?" To which Colonel Smith replies on the 8th: "All 
commissaries instructed to exchange any bread found spoiled, and only ten cases 
lave been turned in. Half fresh bread issued since August 14." 

No. 27494. Letter from C. W. Rhodes, dated New York, May 29, 1898, protesting 
o the President about troops at Camp Black being compelled to go without butter 
ind sugar. Press copy of Commissary-General's reply inclosed. (One inclosure.) 

No. 39759. On September 15. 1898. the Commissary-General telegi-aphs Osgood, 
bommissary at Santiago. Cuba: " Has been reported to the President there is a 
iT'ery gi-eat deal of actual starvation and a very great deal of sickness among 
a*oops." Asks if there is any truth whatever in the statement that there has been 
starvation. On September 16 Osgood telegi-aphs the Commissary-General that 
men in gi-eat numbers sick, but not fi-om lack of food. Rations suflficient for ten 
imes as many troops. Stories of starvation stupid rot. On September 16 the 
Dommissary-General telegraphed Osgood at Santiago concerning complaints 
ibout meat siipplied by Swift & Co. Asks if damaged meat is being issued. 
September 18, 1898, Osgood informs Commissary-General that unfit meat neither 
iccepted nor issued. Anything to contrary false. 

No. 318o0. Letter from C. Atkinson. Norristown, Pa., complaining that men at 
Damp Alger are on half rations. Refers to Pennsylvania regiment. 

No. 35046. From C. T. Madison, Second Louisiana Volunteers, Jacksonville, 
F!a., September 13, 1898. protests against the unjust criticisms against the Sub- 
sistence Department, and states that the depax*tment has always been punctual in 
supplj-ing his regiment. 

No. 34901. Letter from J, Lee Adams, M. D., Washington, September 7, 1898, 
eomplains that commutation of rations was refused his son. Arthur B. Adams, 
Company G. First District of Columbia Volunteers, journeying from Montauk 
Point to Washington, D. C. 

General Orders 116 and 136. 

Extracts fi'om reports of foiiner Commissaries-General. 



fAbstract of sxibsistence stores purchased by Subsistence Department in the months 
of April, May, June, July, and August, IS'JS, at the various purclmsing stations. 



Pork, pounds. . 330, 919 

Bacon do... 7,038,389 

Fresh beef do. . . 10, 330, 486 

Beef, corned do. . . 2, 044, 355 

BHsh, fresh, dried, and pick- 
led pounds - . 52, 852 

Boiled beef do... 97,001 

Mvitton.. .do... 2,259 

Flour for issue do. . . 17, 898, 299 

Hard bread... do... 11,512,608 

Corn meal .do. . . 945, 276 

Baking powder do. . . 1 , 434, 829 

Beans do... 8,732,934 

Beans, baked cans. . 2, 321 , 125 

Peas pounds. . 56, 712 

Soft bread do. . _ 2, 610, 187 

Eice do... 1,086,644 



Hominy pounds.. 255,028 

Potatoes do... 9,197,882 

Onions do... 1,396,783 

Ice do... 296,130 

Roast beef do. . . 4, 896, 854 

Milk, fluid quarts - . 48, 380 

Tomatoes 3-lb. cans.. 20,837,224 

Coffee: 

Green pounds.. 1,603,054 

Roasted do. . . 1, 438, 829 

Ginger ale bottles. _ 93, 770 

Teas, assorted pounds. . 19, 477 

Sugar .do... 3,441,505 

Molasses gallons. . 6, 461 

Vinegar do... 289,059 

Salt, issue pounds. . 1 . 444. 31 7 

Pepi)er, black do. . . 105, 676 



566 INVESTKiATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 



Abstract of subsistence stores purchased by Subsistence Department, etc. — ( 



Soap, issue pounds. . 1 , 500, 638 

Candles do... 529,972 

Candles, lantern do... 40,195 

Foods: 
Apples — 

3-pound cans. 13, 092 

1 -gallon cans 5,732 

Evaporated . . . i^oiinds . _ 25 . 046 

Apricots . .3-pound cans. . 37, 290 

Bacon, breakfast, pounds. . 128, 194 

Biitter do. . . 55, 857 

Cheese — 

American do... 16,439 

Edam number.. 3,659 

Chocolate — 

Plain pounds. . 8, 122 

Vanilla do... 5,153 

Coffee, extra (Java and 

Mocha) pounds. . 104, 278 

Corn, green, 2-pound 

cans 127,901 

Crabs — 

Pony cans 720 

2-pound cans 600 

Cra c k e r s, assorted, 

pounds 128,596 

Flour pounds. . 329, 153 

Gelatin . 2-ounce packets . . 7 , 791 
Ham — 

De\aled. .i-pound cans. . 62, 580 

Sugar-cured. . .pounds. . 121, 781 

Lard do... 178,473 

Lobster . . .1-pound cans. . 4, 426 

Macaroni pounds . . 23 , 292 

Milk 1-pound cans. . 286, 620 

Oatmeal pounds. . 1, 187, 722 

Oysters _ . .1-pound cans. . 8, 358 
Peaches — 

3-pound cans 96,438 

Evaporated . . . pounds . . 25 , 080 

Pears 2-pound cans . . 69 , 209 

Peas, green — 

American . pound cans . . 111,312 

French.. one-half cans.. 8,237 
Pigs' feet — 

Fresh pound cans. . 2, 274 

Pickled .15-pound kits. . 1, 389 

Pineapples . 2-pound cans . . 12, 068 
Preserves, damson, 

2-pound cans 8.610 

Prunes pounds.. 123,998 

Salmon cans. . 2, 016, 469 



Foods — Continued. 
Sardines — 

One-fourth boxes. ....... 

One-half boxes 

Shrimps cans. . 

Soups qt. cans. . 

Starch, corn pounds. . 

Maple sirup gallons. . 

Sugar, white — 

Cut-loaf pounds. . 

Granulated do 

Powdered do 

Tapioca do... 

Tongue, beef do 

Eggs dozen. _ 

Dried fruits pounds. . 

Spices, seasonings, sauces, 

jams, jellies, etc. : 
Cinnamon, ground, 

pounds 

Cloves, gi'ound _ .pounds. . 
Flavoring extracts — 

Lemon bottles. . 

Vanilla do. . . 

Ginger, ground, .pounds. . 

Cloves, whole do. . . 

Jam, blackberry (cans and 

jars) pounds, . 

Jelly, currant (cans and 

jars) pounds. . 

Lime juice bottles. . 

Miistard — 

Grovmd. pounds. . 

French bottles. . 

Nutmegs pounds. . 

Oil, olive ..quart bottles. - 

Olives do. . . 

Pepper, red — 

Cayenne pounds. . 

Chile Colorado do. . . 

Pickles, assorted, pint 

jars 

Salt, table pounds. . 

Sauce — 

Cranberry cans. . 

Worceste r shire, bot- 

tles 

Cigars, tobacco, and pipes: 
Cigars, assorted, number. . 
Pipes, brier wood, assorted, 

number 

Pipestems number. . 



REPLY OF ('()]Mx\lISSARY-(iENERAL. 



>G7 



Abstract of subsistence stores 2>urchased b/j Sabsi^iciice Department, etc. — Cont'd. 



Cigars, tobacco, etc. — Cont'd. 

Tobacco, plug . _ .pounds. . 178, 971 

Tobacco, smoking, as- 
sorted pounds-- 227,085 

Toilet soaps, kitchen and 
laundry materials: 

Soap, toilet and kitchen, 
cakes 295,804 

Bluing, powdered, 
2-ounce boxes 7, 700 

Stai'ch, laundry, .pounds. _ 16, 209 

Borax. . . 1-poiind i)apers. . 4, 199 

Electro silicon, 3 -ounce 
boxes 8,161 

Metal polish, 3-ounce 
tins 17,775 

Tripoli flour, 4-ounce 

packages 7,162 

Tailors' materials: 

Buttons, trousers, as- 
sorted dozen.. 10,366 

Needles papers. _ 3,078 

Needles, darning, .dozen. . 2, 182 

Needle books, with needles, 
dozen 1,254 

Pins papers. . 4, 858 

Thread, assorted, .spools. . 33, 215 

Stationery: 

Envelopes, assorted, 
number 1,322,727 

Ink, black, 3-ounce bot- 
tles 8,828 

Paper, assorted... quires.. 66,570 

Pencils, lead, assorted, 

number 23,021 

Penholders number . . 9 , 426 

Pens, fine, coarse, and 
stub number.. 31,200 

Indelible pencils, n u m - 
ber.... .- 15,000 



Siindries: 

Basins, hand . . .number. . 49, 616 
Blacking, shoe, assorted, 

boxes 30,868 

Brooms, whisk, assorted, 

mimber. 19,288 

Brushes — 

Blacking number . . 18,233 

Hair, large and small, 

number 10,571 

Nail number.- 3,706 

Tooth, assorted . . .do. . . 32, 546 
Buttons, collar, with and 

without hinge . number _ . 1 7 , 704 

Can openers do... 26,411 

Chamois skins do... 1,059 

Clotheslines feet . . 181 . 452 

Clothespins number. . 136, 064 

Combs, assorted do... 51,251 

Handkerchiefs, linen and 

silk number. . 13, 168 

Ink, indelible . . . .bottles. . 1 , 800 
Matches, safety . . .boxes. . 1, 769, 079 
Pai^er, toilet. . .packages. . 133, 907 
Razor strojjs. No. 1, num- 
ber 861 

Shoestrings, j)orpoise and 

linen pairs. . 82, 258 

Towels, assorted, num- 
ber 124,991 

Toweling, bleached and 

unbleached yards . . 35,687 

Razors -.- .number.. 316 

Cocoa pounds.. 1,080 

Lemons boxes.. 100 

Oranges do... 200 

Lima beans pounds . . 31 , 975 

Evaporated apricots. do. . . 10, 000 

Exceptional articles $20, 282, 87 



In addition to these articles 41,500,000 pounds of subsistence supplies were 
purchased and issued to troops before and after muster in and before being sent 
to camps. 

Emergency ration — 5,000 from American Compressed Food Company, of Passaic, 
N. J.; 5,000 from Freud Milling Company, of Detroit, Mich.; 529,980 rations 
t-pound tins bacon; 900,000 rations each of hard bread, coffee, sugar, pepper, and 
salt; 30,000 twilled bags, vnt\\ compartments, purchased in Chicago, 111.; 4,992 
rations standard emergency, purchased in New York City, N. Y. 

Total weight of articles purchased, 156,343,248 pounds. 

I certify that the foregoing abstract is correct. 

Chas. p. Eagan, 
Commissary-General United States Army. 



I 



ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS PROPOUNDED RY THE COMMISSION OF 
INVESTIGATION TO THE SURGEON-GENERAL U. S. A. 



[Questions Nos. lO, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17.] 



569 



REPLY OF THE SURGEON-GENEKAE, U. S. A., TO 
QUESTIONS PROPOUNDED BY THE COMMISSION. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Washington, D. C, Sejitember 30 , 1S9S. 

The Surgeon-G-eneral United States Army. 

Sir: In compliance with yonr verbal instnictions, I have the honor to submit 
the following replies to cpiestions 10, 11, 12, and 13, from the committee invest! 
gating the War Department, so far as relates to the medical department under my 
immediate supervision: 

Question 10. In compliance with instructions from the Surgeon-General, all 
vessels used in transporting sick and wounded from the troops in Porto Rico were 
thoroughly inspected by a medical officer before the disabled were permitted to 
embark and were as fully supplied with surgeons, surgical instriiments, medical 
supplies, potable water, and proper food as circumstances would permit, the con- 
dition of the transports and sick upon their arrival in the United States showing 
that this eciuipment was amply sufficient for their needs. My orders and other 
correspondence on this subject are hereunto attached, marked " Question 10, A 
to — ." 

Question 11. The personnel, excepting privates of the hospital corps, with the 
Porto Rican expedition was sufficient for an ordinary campaign, but owing to the 
large increase in the number of sick, from climatic conditions, the siipply was 
insufficient later on. The deficit was, however, promptly met by the Surgeon- 
General, so soon as I reported it, and by details from regiments, on my applica- 
tion. The same remark applies to material which, in regard to medical supplies 
and comforts, such as delicacies for the sick, was supplemented by liberal contribu- 
tions from the Pennsylvania National Relief Association and from the National 
Red Cross Association. There was a temporary deficit of medical siipplies for some 
days after the troops landed and tintil the transports were unloaded, but this was 
made good by purchases in quantities to meet all requisitions from medical 
officers. 

Of regular medical supplies an abundance was sent by the Surgeon-General on 
the hospital ship Relief in anticipation of and without any re(iuisition from me. 
He also furnished me with $500 hospital fund to use at my discretion, and $4,780 
of medical and hospital appropriation. 

Question 12. Yes. Attention is invited to copies of orders on this subject. 

Question 1:3. Regimental hospitals have not existed as a military organization 
in the United States Army since October 30, 1862, at which time they were abol- 
ished by orders from headquarters of the army in the field. 

When I assumed niedical charge as chief surgeon of the troops in the field. May 
3, 1898, I fornuilated a plan for their sanitary organization, a copy of which is 
hereunto attached. This plan was based upon the sanitary organization of our 
Army dxTring the civil war and comprised a division field hospital of three brigade 
sections to accommodate 200 beds, a division ambulance company, and a dispen- 
sary service for each regiment. Provision was also made for a reserve division 
field hospital of 200 beds and a reserve ambulance company for each coii^s. The 
personnel was drawn partly from medical officers appointed by the President, 
partly from those belonging to regiments, and partly from civilian physicians 
employed under contract by the Surgeon-General. Two lieutenants of the line 
were detailed for each division hospital to act as quartermaster and commissary. 

571 



I 



572 INYESTIOATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The medical material was supplied by the Stirgeon-General, and the mounts for 
the hospital corps wheeled transportation, tentage, hand litters, and working 
tools were drawn from the Quartermaster's Department. As these organizations 
were not complete when I left the country with Genei'al Miles for Cuba and 
Porto Rico I am unable to state whether or not their results in this country were 
satisfactory, but I can state that so far as the field operations in Porto Rico are 
concerned the resiilts were satisfactory. 

The act of Congress approved April 23, 1898, did not provide for the enlistment 
of privates of the hospital corps into volunteer regiments, or for the api^ointment 
of commissioned medical officers for service in division hospitals and at other 
places where their services might be needed, and the expedient of transferring 
private soldiers from vohinteer regiments to the hospital corps of the United 
States Army was adopted, but with very unsatisfactory results. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. G-reenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General , United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in tJie Field. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-OENKRAL. 578 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 10-INSPECTION OF TRANSPORTS. 

Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, June 13, 1898. 
Col. Chas. R. GtREENLeaf, 

Tampa Bay Hold, Tampa, Fla. 
Sir: Your telegrams of June 11 have been received. I expect to have the 
hospital train at Taiupa on Thursday, fully equipped to receive from 150 to 20(J 
patients. Cases of serious illness, and such as are likely to require protracted 
treatment, should he put on the hospital train. I will give orders for their trans- 
fer to the hospital at Fort McPherson, or elsewhere, upon information conveyed 
to me by the surgeon in charge of the train or by yourself. 

T^e Relief will follow the expedition to Santiago as soon as she is ready for 
service, which, I hope, will be within a week or ten days. 

The navy ambulance ship Solace will, I understand, be ordered at once to San- 
tiago, and will receive the sick and wounded both from the army and navy for 
transportation home. 

******* 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon- General. 



Adjutant-General's Office, 

Wasldngton June, :i5, 1898. 
Major-General Shafter, 

Play a del Este, Ctiba: 
******* 
Return the wounded on ships that are able to travel, using preferably the Har- 
vard and Yale, returning to Newport News. 

******* 

H. C. Corbin. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, July 18, 1898. 
Pope, Chief Surgeon, Fifth Army Corps: 

General Miles has authorized transfer to medical departnuMit of transport for 
yellow-fever floating hospital. La Garde will select it and outlit it as far as pos- 
sible: also has quarantined all transports. When immune doctors and nurses 
arrive make detail from them for ship- also for yellow-fever camp, and samo at 
Siboney. I go to Porto Rico with the General. Keep in touch with me until you 
know of his departure from here. 

Ten ambulances are on Louisiana. Take them for your service: others are 
provided for Porto Rican expedition. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



574 1NVE8TIGATIUN OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, 
Ghiantanamo Bay, July IS, 1S9S. 
liA Garde, Stboney : 

General Miles lias authorized tlie transfer of the Clinton, now at Siboney, to 
yoii for a yellow-fever hospital. The doctors and nurses coming from Washing- 
ton can furnish ultimate personnel, but use what you have for present service. 
I telegi'aphed Sternberg for a disinfecting plant. 

Orders quarantining transports have been sent to General Shafter. Pxit a 
doctor at the dock and give him your sanitary orders. 
If Clinton or other transport won't do, wire me and I will wire Sternberg. 
Transports will all soon go to Santiago Bay. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, on Board U. S. S. Yale, 

En route to Porto Rico, July 22, 1S9S. 
Mecical Officer in Charge, 

Transport steamer Specialist: 
You will at once transfer all the sick of your command to the transi^ort Lam- 
pasas, sending with them a complete list, giving name, rank, and regiment, with 
diagnosis and descriptive lists; also sufficient quantity of medical supplies and 
rations to last them during the voyage from here to Fortress Monroe. You will 
retain a duplicate of this list so that you may account for the men transferred on 
your proper report. The hospital transport wiW be supplied with doctors and 
nurses. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

This letter was sent to the medical officer in charge of the steamers Comanche, 
Bita, Nueces, Unionist, and to Major Crile, division surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, on Board U. S. S. Yale, 

En route to Porto Rico, July 22, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headcpiarters of the Army: 
Sir: I have the honor to state that there are quite a number of sick on this and 
other transports of our fleet, probably in the neighborhood of 100. They are prin- 
cipally typhoid and other fevers. I recommend that so soon as we reach our des- 
tination that one of the transi)orts most suitable for the jjurpose be placed at my 
disposal to receive these sick and take them to Fortress Monroe for assignment 
into the general hospital at that point. I will place on board 2 doctors and 15 
niarses belonging to the Red Cross association now on the steamer Lampasas, and 
will reciuire the medical officers on the different transports to furnish medical 
supplies sufficient for the use of the sick until they reach Fortress Monroe. In 
this way I hope to clear the army before it lands of all its sick. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Chief Siirgeon Army in the Field, 



REPLY OF SITRIJEON-GENKRAL. 575 

Headquarters of the Army, on Board U. S. S. Yale, 

En route to Porto Rico, July 22, 1898. 
Lieut. Col. W. M. Black, 

Chief Engineer, United States Volunteers, Transport Steamer Lampasas. 
Sir: I have the honor to reeiuest you to inform Dr. Vogel and Miss Riitty, in 
charge of the Red Cross detachment on board yoiir steamer, that a transport will 
be selected immediately upon our arrival at Porto Rico for the purpose of receiv- 
ing all the sick of this command and proceeding with them to Fortress Monroe, 
so that they may be admitted to the general hospital at that place. I should like 
to have Dr. Vogel designate two doctors, and Miss Rutty fifteen nurses, to go on 
board of this ship to take charge of the sick until their arrival in the United 
States. The remaining doctors and nurses I should like to have on duty in the 
provisional hospital about to be established at our base of supplies, wherever it 
may be. So soon as the hospital transport is selected and the transfer of the sick 
is ready I will notify you, so that the detachment may be also transferred from 
the Lampasas to the hospital ship. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Asssistant Sxirgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Ponce, Porto Rico, July SO, 1S9S. 

The Surgeon-GtENEral United States Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to state that 000 sick leave this port to-day for the United 
States on the transport Obdam. As information regarding her departure was 
received only a few hours ago, preparation for sending the sick has been of the 
most meager character. I have placed Maj. H. E. Bradley, siirgeon of the Second 
Wisconsin Regiment, Acting Asst. Surg. C. Brewer, and ten hospital corps men 
on board and furnished them with the necessary food and medicines for the trip; 
the latter I have had to purchase, promising to pay as soon as funds are received 
from you. There is a very large sick report here, principally of typhoid fever and 
malarial disease, brought from camps of instruction. The means of caring for 
patients is limited; tentage, medical supplies, and doctors are lacking, and it is 
necessary to relieve the army at once of as many cases of this nature as possible. 
The men now sent were already on transports, having fallen sick en route from 
the United States. 

A transport, the Lampasas, is now in the harbor with 119 cases of typhoid on 
board and waiting only to unload her cargo of supplies necessary for the army 
before starting north. 

I trust there will be no delay in sending the hospital ships requested by my 
telegram and letters; they are badly needed now and will be indispensable in a 
short time. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-Ceneral, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon, Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Playa del Ponce. Porto Rico, July 31, 1S9S. 
The Surgeon-General United States Army. 

Sir: The headquarters expedition for Porto Rico and five transports loaded with 
troops and general siipplies left Gnantananio Bay on the 21st instant, to be joined 
by transports now on their way from the United States, all to be rendezvous at 
Cape San Juan. On each of the transpcrrts a number of cases of illness developed 



576 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

after leaving Charleston, most of them being typhoid fever. En route from 
Giiantanamo Bay the number of cases on the Yale increased very rai^idly until on 
arrival at Guauica there were 89 cases. One def^ih occurred on the Yale, one on 
the Comanche, one at Guanica, and two at this i)ort, the two former being buried 
at sea. Such medical su!pplies as were on the Yale were inaccessible, being packed 
in the hold, and the cases were so severe that I was obliged to call on the ship's 
officers for mattresses and other bedding. 

Arriving at Giianica July 25, the general commanding directed me to transfer 
to the ti'ansport Lampasas all the sick. On this ship there was quartered a detach- 
ment of 4 doctors, 2 undergraduates, 2 pharmacists, and 30 female nurses belonging 
to the Red Cross Association, who had been given passage for the purpose of join- 
ing Miss Barton at Santiago. Miss Barton had left that port, which was under 
rigid quarantine, as was also Gxiantananio Bay, and there was no place where 
they could be landed. They were, therefore, permitted to remain on the trans- 
port, and I utilized their services in caring for the sick. This was particiilarly 
necessary, as the troops were immediately landed, engaged with the enemy, and 
the services of all the medical officers and hospital cordis men were demanded at 
once. The commanding officer of the Yale transferred to me certain medical sup- 
plies for use on the Lampasas, which was without any. I inclose a list of them, 
with a list of bedding and fi'esh meat furnished by the Yale. Proper food could 
not be obtained for the fever cases on the Lampasas, because it was impossible to 
unload the transports to get at hospital stores, and the ordinary commissary sup- 
plies were not suitable for men in their condition. I had no funds from which 
jiayment to the ship could be made, and therefore arranged with Miss Rutty, the 
representative of the Red Cross nurses, to pay for the subsistence of the jiatients 
until their arrival at Fortress Monroe. No rations have been drawn for them Ijy 
the medical department, and I have so notified the respective comjiany com- 
manders. The money value of the rations that are due from the time they came 
on to the ship, Jiily 25, 1898, until they leave it at Fortress Monroe is, therefore, a 
credit due from the Subsistence to the Medical Department. 

There are now on board the Lampasas 119 cases, as will appear from the list 
inclosed, and she has been ordered, as soon as her freight, consisting of engineering 
material, is unloaded, to proceed to Fortress Monroe, the captain of the ship being 
directed to rei)ort his arrival by telegrai)h to the Adjutant-General for instructions 
regarding the place at which patients shall be unloaded. As we have no telegraphic 
communication with the United States, I could not inform you. I have placed 
Acting Asst. Surg. H. C. Cline, U. S. A., in charge of her. 

The service rendered by the members of this detachment of Red Cross people 
has been invaluable, and they are entitled to great credit for their devotion to duty, 
their zeal, and their imremitting care of the sick under circiTmstances that were 
peculiarly trying. They have obeyed implicitly every order given to them and 
have never murmured through the real hardship to which they have been exposed. 
I shall be glad indeed to welcome them should they return, and I can always find 
suitable work for them in the base field hospital. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Gkeenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon- General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Playa del Ponce, Porto Rico, August 1, 1S9S. 
Acting Assistant Surgeon Cline, U. S. A. 

Sir: You are hereby placed in charge of the administrative care of the steamer 
Lampasas and will, in addition to this duty, render professional service to the sick. 



KEl'J.V OF SUKGEON-CiKNEKAL. 577 

On the arrival of the steamer at Fortress Monroe you will be subject to such 
orders as you may receive from the Surgeon-General or proper military authorities. 
The captain of the ship has already received orders to report to the Adjutant- 
General of the Army. In your administrative work it is your duty to keep a 
correct record of all the sick on board in order that you may furnish the Surgeon- 
General with the necessary information about the patients. This duty you 
should perform personally at such time as may be at your disposal in your pro- 
fessional work. 

You will also take charge of the enlisted men detailed for diity as attendants, 
preserving discipline among them and giving an oversight to their food and other 
comfort. The ladies belonging to the Red Cross Association should have entire 
charge of the comforts and care of the sick, every consideration being given to 
their humane efforts in behalf of our men. 

I inclose a copy of the orders under which the men of the Sixth Massachusetts 

are serving; you will deliver this to Corporal Gunter. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Cable.— From General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon United States troops in the 

field, Ponce, Porto Kico.] 

August 3, 1898. 
Relief sails for Ponce to-day. Do not send any sick on transports unless there 
is ample accommodation, medical supplies, suitable diet, and competent medical 
attendance. Acknowledge receipt. 



[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, 

Ponce, Porto Rico, August 4, 1S9S. 
Sternberg, Washington: 

Had decided not to send sick except on hospital ships. Establishing shore trans- 
fer hospital. Purchased outfit. Funds required. Was compelled to send those 

on Obdam and Lampasas. ^ 

Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port of Ponce, Porto Rico, August 4, 1S9S. 

The Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Sir: Referring to your cable message of this date regarding the transfer of 
sick by transports returning to the United States. I have the honor to invite 
attention to my two letters of July 30 and July 31 regarding the Obdam and the 
Lampasas. The methods by which transports were loaded in the United States 
made the process of unloading a tedious affair, and our medical officers have been 
unable to get promptly after landing the proper quantity of either tentago or 
medical supplies for the care of the sick. I therefore directed that the sick 
remain on board the transports, where they at least had shelter, food, and such 
medicines as the doctors and attendants could carry on their persons, until 
arrangements could be made on shore for their care. After arrival at Guanica 
7833— VOL. 1 37 



578 INVE.S'I'KiATlON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

the number increased rapidly and many of the cases developed ty])hoid symp- 
toms, so that, even with all the tentage that conld be unloaded, there was not 
sufficient shelter for them. The unsanitary condition of the buildings in the 
town of Ponce deterred me from tJiking any of them for hospital purposes until 
after thorough cleansing and disinfection. It seemed, therefore, to be for the bes:^ 
interest of the sick that this surplus, for which no provision was available, shoitld 
be sent to the North at once, and they were made as comfortable as possible with 
the means at hand for the journey. I had decided, after leaving Siboney,not to 
permit any sick to be sent North except on hospital ships, and it was with this in 
view that I telegraphed you from that place for them; but the conditions here 
made it imperatively necessary to take prompt action, and therefore I had no 
hesitancy in departing in these two instances from my decision. In preparing the 
Lampasas at this port for her journey to the North I was very much embarrassed 
by a quarantine, which, in my opinion, was entirely imnecessary, that was placed 
upon her by the naval people because of a convalescing case of measles she had 
on board. Valuable time and several opportiinities to secure delicacies for the 
sick, particularly ice, were lost while I was endeavoring to have some of the 
restrictions released; but in spite of my protests the quarantine was maintained 
until her departure. 

There is in the town of Ponce a large military hospital, in which, at the time of 
capture, there were 48 sick Spaniards, who had been abandoned by their people. 
The cases were principally venereal, and many of them were convalescing. These 
latter have been disposed of by parole, leaving only a few who need hospital 
treatment. I have had the building thoroughly policed and disinfected and the 
ward that was in use by the Spaniards fumigated, and expect by to-morrow to 
be able to fit it iip for use as a transfer hospital for our people, placing Assistant 
Surgeon Ten Eyck in charge. As the medical supplies here are only sufficient for 
use with the troops, I have piirchased the necessary articles for fitting up this 
hospital, and will at a later date furnish you with a complete list of them. It is 
my intention to transfer from camps to this hospital cases that appear to demand 
shipment to the North, holding them for observation until the arrival of a 
hospital ship. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Cable.— General Sternberfr to Colonel Greenleaf, cliief surgeon United States troops in the flold, 

Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

August 12, 1898. 
Use tent hospitals. Send sick and convalescents home on Relief and properly 
equip transports. Will send money. Experienced hospital stewards not avail- 
able. Competent male nurses hard to find. Do you want trained female nurses? 
Acknowledge receipt. 



[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 20, 1808. 
Sternberg, Washington : 

When will Relief sail? Is any other hospital ship coming? Can load two. 

Greenleaf. 



EEPLY OF 8UK(jiEON-(iI<:NERAL. 579 

[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August ::'J, ISOS. 
Sternberg, Washington : 

Nnniber sick increasing — intestinal disorders and malarial. A properly 
eipiipped transport to return sick should be here every week. Add Warburg's 

tincture to relief supplies. 

Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 24, ISOS. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: In view of the approaching transfer of sick and convalescents to the 
United States, I have the honor to recommend that the following instructions be 
sent to the various commanding oflScers, so that the preparation for the comfort 
of the men may be secured. 

The generals of the several commands of this army will at once organize a 
board of medical ofl&cers in their respective commands to examine into the con- 
dition of the men now reported as sick in quarters, with a view of selecting those 
who should be transferred to the United States. In making this selection no 
one will be included who is liable to severe illness during the voyage or unable 
to bear transportation to the ship. Men with slight ailments, who will probably 
recover within seven days, will not be included. The convalescents belonging to 
regiments that are ordered north will be sent with their regiments. Of those 
belonging to regiments that are to remain on the island the aggregate number 
wnll be reported to the chief surgeon, awaiting at their camps orders for 
transportation. 

Such of the sick in the hospitals as are able to bear the journey will be sent to 
the north on the first regular hospital ship that arrives in port. 

Great care must be exercised in the selection both of the sick and convalescents 
to avoid the transfer of men who are unable to bear the journey or are likely to 
die on the road, or of men who are not proper subjects for transfer as convalescents. 

Transfer slips will be made in all cases and forwarded with the men when 
transferred. 

The officers who will be placed in charge of the convalescent ship will make 

provision for rations and descriptive lists, and be personally responsible that the 

ship and supplies are in good condition before she sails. Medical officers wiU be 

detailed for service with the command. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 
Note.— These recommendations were approved and embodied in a general 
order that was issued the same day by General Miles. 



order. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 25. 1S9S. 
The chief surgeons of the several commands of this army -svill at once organize 
a board of medical officers in their respective commands to examine into the con- 
dition of the men now reported as sick in (quarters, with a view of selecting those 



580 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

who should be ti'uiisi'erred to the United States. In making this selection no one 
will be included who is liable to severe illness during the voyage or unable to bear 
transijortation to the ship. Men with slight ailments that will probably recover 
within seven days will not be included. The convalescents belonging to regiments 
that are ordered north will be sent with their regiments. Of those belonging to 
regiments that are to remain on the island the aggregate number will be reported 
to the chief surgeon, awaiting at their camps orders for transportation. 

Such of the sick in hospital as are able to bear the journey will be sent to the 
north on the first regular hosx)ital ship that arrives in port. 

Great care miist be exercised in the selection both of the sick and convalescents 
to avoid the transfer of men who are unable to bear the joiirney or are likely to 
die on the road, or of men who are not proper subjects for transfer as convalescents. 

Transfer slips will be made in all cases and forwarded with the men when 
transferred. 

Officers of the line will be placed in charge of the convalescent ship, make pro- 
vision for rations and descri^jtive lists, and be personally responsible that the ship 
and supplies are in good condition before she sails. Medical officers will be 
detailed for service with the command. 



Headquartees of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 37, ISUS. 
Major Crile, 

Chief Surgeon, General Henry's Covimand, Utuado: 
Hospital ship Relief expected to arrive on Sunday. How many sick will you 
have to transfer to her, and from what point had they better be loaded? Very sick 
should not be allowed to make the journey. 

Greenleaf. 



HeadquxVrters of the Ariviy, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 27, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that the plumbing arrangements on the steam- 
ship Ohdam are very much out of order and shoiild be attended to before she sails. 
The water-closets are reported to me as being offensive in odor and uncleanly. I 
recommend that the necessary steps be taken to put this part of the ship in i)er- 
fect order. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 28, ISDS. 
General Brooke, Ouayama: 

Thanks for your good words. With our limited transportation an allotment of 
numbers for the several commands is essential, both as to the sick and convales- 
cents. Am preparing the Panama for the latter and the Relief is expected to-day 
for the former . Will send both to Arroyo for you . I agree with you as to buildings 
for troops, which should be of double wall, brick, or of concrete with iron roofs. 
No wooden buildings should be permitted. Until proper buildings are constructed 
wall, hospital, or Sibley tents should be used or buildings in towns appropriated. 
Have made notes of all your suggestions and will lay them before the President 

on arrival. 

Greenleaf. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 581 

MEMORANDUM OF SUGGESTED TELEGRAMS SENT TO COMMANDING GENERALS. 

Port Ponce. Porto Rico, August 29, 1S9S. 

Immediate information desired of number of proper cases of sick for transfer to 

the liospital ship Relief. No case must be sent to her that is likely to die on the 

road or to be injured by removal. 

By command of Major-General Miles: 

J. C. Gilmore, 

Brigadier-Ocneral of Volunteers. 

Sent to — 

General Brooke (Guayama). 

General Wilson (Ponce). 

General Garretson (Uttiado). 

Colonel De Russey (Mayaguez). 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 31, 1S9S. 

Major Woodbury, 

Surgeon, United States Volunteers, Port Ponce, Porto Rico. 

Sir: Dr. Gloninger, of the Fourth Pennsylvania, came to see me this evening 

aboiit certain cases that he desired transferred to the Relief. These cases are now 

on the Chester. From his description of them I think that the majority ought not 

to be permitted to go north with the regiment, but should be sent to the general 

iiospital. This suggests to me the propriety of your making or having made by 

some reliable assistant a very close inspection of the sick that are shipped with 

regiments in transit to the north. While the original examining board may have 

fully performed its duty, certain cases that appeared mild in nature when the 

troops left their camp may have developed into serious cases by the time they 

reached Ponce, and should therefore be stopped right here. A lack of vigilance 

in this particular can very easily lead to serious trouble at the other end of the 

route, when the troops are inspected by the authorities at New York or Montauk 

Point. 

Very truly, yours, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



memorandum. 



I was called at midnight of the 31st of August to provide for 17 convalescents 
belonging to the Second Wisconsin Volunteers, who had been dumped on the 
wharf at Ponce and left there to take care of themselves. They had no food 
and no comforts for sleeping. The orders from the general commanding to place 
them in the convalescent camp were well understood by the officers. Init were 
simply disregarded. I placed the men on board the steamship Pdncniia for the 
night, and the next morning sent them to the general hospital at Ponce for care 
and such further disposition as the chief surgeon could see proper to make of 

their cases. ^ -r. ^ 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 31, 1S9S. 
Maj. George H. Torney, 

Surgeon, United States Army, Commanding Relief. 
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that prior to the arrival of the hospital 
ship Relief orders were issued by General IMiles at my request for Iwards to con- 
sist of three medical officers to be convened at hospitals in the command of 



582 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Generals Brooke and Schwan, for the purpose of examining the sick in hospital 
and determining who of them should be transferred to the Relief for shipment 
north. The board was instructed to select only such men as could bear the 
journey without prospect of permanent injury or prospect of death during the 
voyage, and to reject all men liable to be fit for duty wathin seven days. Similar 
instructions were given to the surgeon in charge of the general hospital at Ponce. 
Due precautions have therefore been taken to select proper cases to be trans- 
fen-ed to the north, and I have to request that, should you find that these orders 
have been disregarded, you will report the facts to the Surgeon-General of the 
Army in order that .the responsibility for such disobedience of orders may be 
fixed. A copy of this letter will be forwarded to the Surgeon-General. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



Camp near Ponce. Porto Rico, August ,?5, 1S9S. 
Colonel Woodbury, 

Deputy Surgeon-General, United States Army, Ponee, Porto Rico. 

Sir: Pursuant to your verbal order of to-day I inspected the transports in the 
harbor of Ponce, Porto Rico, with a view of selecting one for the transportation 
of convalescent soldiers homeward bound. I have the honor of submitting the 
result of the inspection, together with some i-ecommendations, as reque'sted by 
Colonel Greenleaf and yourself. 

The following ships were inspected: Rita, Uto, Panama, Giissie, Concho, 
Alamo, Chester, MississijU^i, and Obdam. 

1. The Rita arrived on the 23d instant loaded with miscellaneous supplies, 
which are to be issiied at various ports from the ship. She will not be unloaded 
in this harbor. 

2. The Uto is unavailable. She is loaded with engineers" siipplies, and has no 
IDOSsible accommodation for troops — especially convalescents. 

3. Panama. Not available. 

4. Gtissie. An old-fashioned side-wheeler. Slow, and totally unfit for the pur- 
pose desired. 

5. The Concho (transport No. 14) . Will not be available for two weeks. Ven- 
tilation between decks is wretched. Has capacity for 40 officers in staterooms 
and 150 men in hammocks. Tank capacity, 20,000 gallons. Has no condenser. 
No fans for artificial ventilation. No cooking facilities except for first-class 
cabin. Soldiers would have to subsist entirely on travel rations. 

6. Alamo (transport No. 35, Qiiartermaster's Department). Formerly belonged 
to the Mallory Line. Will not be unloaded for six days. Capacity in cabin, first- 
class, 75; troops in hammocks, 400. Tank capacity, 10,000 gallons. Also, ballast 
tank 20,000 gallons (ordinarily filled with salt water, but could be used for fresh 
water). Not provided with condenser or ventilating fans. Has no accommoda- 
tions for cooking. Troops would be compelled to subsist on travel rations. Has 
two small copper boilers for i^reparing coffee. General sanitary condition of lav- 
atories good. Ship is clean. 

7. C/ifsff'r (transport No. 32). Now ready for sea. Brought nearly 1 ,500 passen- 
gers and crew, together with 230 mules on last trip. Is in excellent sanitary con- 
dition. Could easily accommodate 1,000 troops of the type referred to, also 100 
officers. Has tank capacity of 19,000 gallons and (distilling) condensing plant of 
3,000 gallons daily. Good cooking facilities for extra diet. Has four large Fergu- 
son ventilating fans in first-class order, which keep the atmosphere between decks 
clear and pure. Has a ship's hospital — 20 beds in good sanitary condition — located 
on upper deck, well ventilated. All stabling has been removed and sent ashore. 

8. Mississijijii. An old Atlantic cattle ship, now hea\'ily loaded. Not available 



REPLY OF HURGEON-GENERAL. 583 

for from ten days to two weeks. Capacity, 800 troops, with deck room or venti- 
lated quarters. Tank capacity, 18,000 gallons. Condenser, 2,000 gallons daily. 
She is dirty, has poor lavatories, ])adly located. No cooking facilities excei^t for 
crew. Her unsanitary condition renders her totally unsuitable for the purposes 
desired. 

9. Obdam (transport N j. 30) . Will require six days to complete unloading. Has 
accommodations for 75 first,class and 500 convalescent troops. Tank capacity, 
14,000; condenser, 4,000 gallons daily. Has small hospital with four beds. Poor 
cooking facilities for extra diet. Could make home passage in five and one-half 
days with favorable weather. No ventilating fans. Sanitary condition good. 

There can be no question as to which ships are most available from a sanitary 
standpoint. The C/ies^t'?' ranks first; the Obdam second. The Cliester will accom- 
modate a much greater nuniljer and has better ventilati(jn between decks and 
better facilities for preparation of delicacies or foods for the weak convalescents. 

Regarding the class of patients to be taken to the United States I would respect- 
fully recommend that such as are convalescing from insolation, low fevers, and 
gastro-intestinal disturbances be selected. 

Respectfully, L. L. Seaman, 

Major and Surgeon, First Reyiment United States Volunteer Engineers. 



Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August SG, 189S. 
Major Woodbury, Chief Surgeon. 

Sir: In compliance with orders, I have inspected the Panama, with a view of 
ascertaining her qualifications as a transport for convalescent troops, and beg to 
report as follows: 

The ship will be entirely unloaded to-day. She is coaled and can be ready for 
sea in twenty-foiir hours. She has all her tanks (capacity, 14,000 gallons) full; 
also 100 casks of Croton water, 200 gallons in each cask. She has no condenser 
and fans for ventilation. Her sanitary condition is good; excellent lavatories and 
shower bathroom for troops; also good washing accommodations. Is lighted 
throughout with electricity. Cooking accommodation for 300 troops. Can run 
to New York in six "and one-half days. Three hundred is full number I would 
recommend her taking. Also good accommodation for 24 officers. Total capac- 
ity, 324. 

If this ship, the Panama, is selected, 2 barrels of lime should be sent to her cap- 
tain at once (also 6 whitewash brushes) , with directions to have all spaces between 
decks thoroiighly whitewashed. The captain should also be directed to retain the 
100 casks of Croton water on the ship. 

Respectfully, Seaman, 

Major, Surgeon Fii'st United States Volunteer Engineers. 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Office of the Chief Surgeon, on board S. S. Obdam, 

En route to New York, September 0, 1S9S. 
Capt. Walter Allen, U. S. V., Quartermaster. 

Sir: I have the honor to invite your attention to certain unsanitary conditions 
of this ship which, in my opinion, should be corrected before she goes again to sea. 
First. The plumbing in connection with the water-closets and urinals. This is 
very defective, the pipes clogging frequently and the flush being faulty. The cap- 
tain of the ship informs me that the whole apparatus is old and not worth repair- 
ing. I recommend that it be thoroughly overhauled and, if necessary, replaced 
with new pipes. 



584 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Second. Ventilation. While the weather is good and the i^orts and hatches can 
be kept open and wind sails used, the air between decks is fairly good; biit if any 
one of these sources of siipply should be shnt off in consequence of stormy weather 
the atmospheric conditions would be unbearable. This applies to the staterooms 
as well as between decks. I understand that there is sufficient motor power and 
machinery to drive the requisite number of electric fans, and I recommend that 
they be sujiplied to all parts of the ship and vised systematically. 

Third. Cleanliness. This is essential, but particularly with reference to the 
toilet boxes in the staterooms, the water containers of all kinds, the filters, and 
the cold-storage box, in which food is kept. I do not know whether the present 
force of ship's company is sufficient to do this kind of work thoroughly, but ii it 
is not it should be increased, since it is very inadequately done now. The water 
from the Pasteur filter is exceedingly malodorous and undrinkable, and the toilet 
boxes are uncleanly. Regarding the general regulations for cleanliness of the 
quarters occupied by the troops there is much to be said, and I propose making 
this the subject of a separate communication to the Quartermaster-General, merely 
adding that the passable condition of cleanliness among the troops has been 
obtained only through the greatest difficulties and by frequent inspections by the 
medical officers and myself. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



REPLY OF SUR(iE()N-Gi:NEKAI>. 585 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 11-SUPPLY OF PERSONNEL AND 
MEDICAL MATERIAL. 

Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington, D. C\, May 11, ISDS. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that there will be required for tise with the med- 
ical department of the army serving in the field the following articles of quarter- 
master property, namely: 

150 Red Cross flags (hospital) l 

150 national flags (storm) 

650 Red Cross guidons 

650 national-flag guidons J 

10,000 Red Cross brassards (arm badges). 

The national-flag guidon should be of the same size, shape, and material as the 
Red Cross gitidon. 

Very i-espectfully, etc., Chas. R. Greenleaf, Colonel, etc. 



> Of buntint 



Headquarters op the Army, 

Washington, D. C, May 11, 1S98. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headqua. ters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to submit herewith an estimate of wheeled transportation 
and tentage reqiiired for use of medical department in the field. 

Transportation: Ambulances, 1 to 400 of combatant troops; army wagons, 1 to 
600 of combatant troops; escort wagons, 1 to each brigade. 

Tentage: Hospital tent, 1 to 300 of combatant troops; common tents, 1 to 1,200 
of combatant troops. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, Colonel, etc. 



Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington, D. C, May 12, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that, exclusive of the animals for ambu- 
lance and other wagons used by the medical department in the field, there ^^^ll be 
required for mounts and pack transportation: Hospital stewards requiring 
mounts, 420; 1.038 horses, viz, acting hospital stewards requiring mounts. 153; 
privates requiring mounts, 466; 200 mules (1 per regiment) and the necessary 
erjuiiiment. 
Also, 3,500 hand litters, ^vith slings (one per company and two per ambulance). 



586 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The estimate for horses, whicn is one-fourth less than the regvilation allowance 
(par. 1421, A. R. ) , is based upon what is believed to be the least number that will 
do the work of the department under the present field organization. Under the 
law the Hospital Cordis must now man all the transportation required by the 
Medical Department. 

Very respectfully, etc., Chas. R. Greenleaf, Colonel, etc. 



[Telegram.] 



. Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington. D. C, May 11. ISDS. 
Pope, Chief Surgeon, Tampa, Fla.: 

Make local inquiry whether 200 horses bought for Hospital Corps have been 
sent from Chickamauga to Tampa. Answer. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, D. C, 3Iay 16, 1S9S 
Pope, Chief Surgeon, Tampa, Fla.: 

Quartermaster Chickamauga was directed to distribute hospital-corps mounts 
with troops going south. If your quota not yet received request depot quarter- 
master to wire Chickamauga regarding them. Field desks and vaccine virus 
have been forwarded. 

Greenleaf. 



United States Camp, Florida. May IS, 1S9S. 
The Surgeon-General, United States Army: 

Authority is requested to provide mounts for all acting assistant surgeons, also 
for one orderly for every medical officer serving with foot troops. There are 
more than enoiigh horses for the Hospital Corps now at this place. We have 167 
private and 29 stewards at present with this command. 

Pope, Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters op the Army, 

Washington, May 20, 1S9S. 
The Chief Signal Officer of the Army. 

Sir: Referring to joint resolution authorizing the printing of extra copies of the 
military publications of the War Department (par. 2 G. O. 42, C. S. , A. G. O. ) 
I have the honor to report that the following will be required by the medical de- 
partment in the field, viz: 

70 Cavalry drill regulations. 
28 Manual. Judge- Advocate Department, 
1 ,500 Manual of drill for the Hospital Coi'ps. 
250 Arm regulations. 
56 Manual, Army Corps, cooks. 
28 Manual. Sxibsistence Department. 
675 Manual, Medical Department. 
51 Manual, Quartermaster's Department. 
55 Manual, Paymaster's Depariment. 



REPLY OF SUl^GEON-GENERAL. 5^7 

It is suggested that these publications be held in stock, subject to requisition 
that will be made from time to time from the field, until the estimated number 
is exhausted. 

Very respectfully, etc., Chas. R. Greenleaf, C'otoneZ, etc. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters op the Army, 

Washington, D. C, June 1, 1S9S. 
Pope, Chief Surgeon, Tampa, Fla. : 

Brown telegraphs Surgeon-General that he shipped 25 advance medical outfits 

to you on May 23. Ask quartermaster if he can hurry them. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram. 



Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington, D. C, June 1, 189S. 
O'Reilly. Chief Surgeon. MolnJe, Ala. : 

Wright telegi-aphs Siirgeon-General that five times the quantity enumerated in 
the field-supply table was shipped to you by freight May 27. Ask your quarter- 
master to hurry them, if possible. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, D. C. June 1, 1S9S. 
Hartsuff, Chief Surgeon, Chiekamauga. Ga. : 

Wright telegraphs Surgeon-General that he shipped May 17 ten times the quan- 
tity of medical supplies noted in official supply table. On May 26 he shipped 10 
advance medical outfits. Medicines and stores shipped by express: furniture by 
freight. Fifty more outfits have been ordered to follow. Ask Lee if he can 
ascertain cause of delay. Advance copy of order regarding transfers to hospital 
corps, etc., will be mailed you to-night. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 

Camp near Mobile, Ala.. June 1, 1S9S. 

Colonel Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon : 

Supplies just arriving, probably from Wright, and the ones about which you 

telegraphed. 

O'Reilly, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, D. C, June 3. 1S93. 
HOFF, Chief Surgeon. Third Corpft. Chiel-amauga. Ga.: 

No hand litters on hand. Surgeon-General and Quartermaster will shi]) as 
soon as manufactiired. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeou. 



588 INVESTIGA'l'ION OF CONDUCT OF WAlf WITH SPAIN. 

[Telegram.] 

Chickamauga Park, June 3, 1S9S. 
Colonel Greenleaf, Washington: 
A large number of baud litters are necessary here. None to be had. 

HoFF, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters op the Army, 

Washington, July 5, ISOS. 
Lient. Col. J. V. R. Hoff, U. S. V., 

Chief Surgeon, ChicMmanga. 
Qnartermaster has shipped (fast freight) 600 each Berkefeld and Maignen filters 
for troops Chickamauga. 

GrREENLEAF, Cttief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 

Surgeon-General's Office, 
Washington, D. C, July l.i, 1S9S. 
Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon, Santiago de Cuba: 
Will send immune assistance as rapidly as possible. 

Sternberg, Surgeon-General. 



[Cable.— General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleal", chief surgeon, .army in the field, Porto Rico.] 

July 15, 1898. 
Will send forward medical supplies, immune nurses, and doctors as rapidly as 
possible. 



SiBONEY, Cuba, July 15, 1S9S. 
Dr. La Garde, Siboney, Cuba. 

Sir: There is only one battalion of volunteer troops so far as I know, and it is 
impossible to get the details from them that we require. Have been informed by 
the commanding officer that he can not do more than he is doing, and that falls 
far short of our necessities. 

The engineers are considered as a separate organization, with specific duties, 

and they are applying to the volunteer infantry here for details. The trouble ^^^th 

the volunteers is that they do not know what to do and do not care. As guards 

they are worth little or nothing. Complaints here from commissary in charge of 

stores that the guards do not protect the stores, and that they are stolen at night 

and even by day. So far as enforcing any orders of a sanitary character, they fall 

entirely short. Not only they, but the horde of Cubans here, make use of the 

grounds. „ 

Humphrey. 



[Ciiblegram.] 

Washington, D. C, July 17, 1S9S. 
Colonel Greenleaf, Cuba: 

One hundred ambulances can not be sent to Cuba without taking away from 
those required at Chickamauga and Camp Alger. There are 27 at Tampa, fully 
equipped, belonging to Henry's division; at manufacturers, 24, will be ready to 



I 



REPLY OF HUKUEON-GENERAL. 589 

ship on Tuesday. No others available now. How many have you at Santiajj^o, 
and what number must you have additional? Those reciuired for the Porto Rican 
expedition will be supplied from other points. Ten ambulances were shipped 
from Tami^a on Louisiana the first of the month. 

LuDiNGTON , Quartermaster-General. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, 
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, July IS, ISOS. 
LuDlNGTON, Washington, D. C: 

The 10 ambulances on Louisiana will answer for Santiago. All in Cul)a will 
be infected and not available for Porto Rico expedition, f<jr which 60 are reciuired. 
Those with Henry's division and at manufacturers, with 9 additional, will be suf- 
ficient. Ship travois, also, if possible. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, on Board U. S. S. Yale, 

En route to Porto Rico, July 3ii, 1898. 
Maj. G. W. Crile, U. S. V., 

Second Brigade, First Division, Second Army Corps. 
Sir: The major-general commanding directs that as soon as possible after the 
arrival of this exi^edition at Porto Rico you establish at our base a ijrovisional 
field hospital to accommodate as many patients as you can reasonably shelter 
iinder whatever tentage may be available. You will furnish its materials and 
supplies by drafts upon the medical department of the several regiments consti- 
tutmg this command imtil such time as the reserve medical supplies as are with 
the exi^edition can be lauded. Upon your recommendation proper medical ofiicers> 
members of the hospital corjis, will be detailed to form the i)ersonnel of the hos- 
Ijital. Such of the Red Cross doctors and nurses now on the Lampasas as are 
needed for the hospital transport will be assigned to you for duty in this hospital. 
In connection with this hospital you will establish a medical supply deiiot, where 
all the reserve supplies will be gathered, placing a medical officer temporarily in 
charge of it, instructing him to open all boxes that do not bear a mark of con- 
tents; an inventory of the medical sui^plies should be made. Requisitions for 
siipplies should be promptly filled, using ambulances for the i^urpose of transport- 
ing sxipplies back to the regiments. No transfer papers are necessary for expend- 
ible articles, but wherever possible nonexpendible articles should be properly 
invoiced and receii^ted for. 

Upon completion of this duty you will report to me, so that an officer may be 
designated to relieve you of the charge of the base hospital, and you will pro- 
ceed toward the front and organize a field hospital as near to the lines as is 
consistent with safety. 

Very respectfully, , 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 4, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to request that tlie sum of $50. Porto Rican money, be 
furnished to me for use in the purchase of ice, milk, eggs, and other delicacies for 



590 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

tlie sick in the transfer hospital, which is established in Ponce. I apiiend below 

my receipt for the money. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistcmt Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

Approved. 

By command of Major-General Miles: 



CajJtain and Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Received at Ponce, Porto Rico, August 5, 1898, the sum of .$50 for the iise of 
the sick in the ti'ansfer hospital. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Cablegram. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August S, ISDS. 
Sternberg, Washington: 

Renew Siboney request for hospital tents and another hospital ship. Large 
number tyi^hoids. Load Belief soon as possible. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, Augtist 9, ISDS. 
Captain Williams, 

Quartermaster Steamship Panama. 
Sir: Will you be kind enough to let Lieutenant Crabbs, qiiartermaster hospital 
ship Relief, have ten laborers under one boss stevedore to assist in unloading 
medical supplies from the Relief to-morrow. These sujiplies are urgently needed 
by the large number of sick now in the soldiers' hospital and for issue to the 
troops. 

I do not know whether this communication ought properly to go through any 
other headquarters, but I take (^hances in sending it direct to you, and feel sure 
that if you can give us the men you will do so. 
Very truly, yours, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 10, 189S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headqua7'ters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to request the detail of 10 enlisted men for duty as 
nurses in the military transfer hospital at Ponce, the men being directed to report 
to the surgeon in charge at the earliest jiracticable moment. I request that the 
officer making this detail will select intelligent, willing men, preferably men who 
will volunteer for the service. The hospital has been unexpectedly overcrowded 



K'EPLV OF yiEOKOM GKNEKAL. f)!)! 

with sick from the troops that went to the front, and onr means of carinj,' for 
them are exceedingly limited. The men are very ill and re(inirc the best care wts 
can give them, and in this emergency I feel that I am not asking too much in 
making an appeal to the humane feelings of our soldiers fo prompt nd efficient 
response to my call for this aid. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United Stales xirniy, 

Chief Surgeon Arm// in the Field. 

N(5TE.— Permanent detail made at once, Ijy order General Miles, from the Nine- 
teenth United States Infantry, of men who did splendid service during their stay 
at the hospital. 

C. R. G. 



[Cable.— General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon, army in the field, Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

August 10, 1898. 
Ocean voyage very trying for severe typhoid cases. Can't you establish general 
hospital at Ponce in suitable buildings? Call on me for all you need. Will send 
hospital tents by first transport. Will send money to your supply officer if you 
will telegraph his. name. Acknowledge receipt. 



[Cable.] 

Washington, August 10, iSOS—lf-p. m. 
General Miles: 

It is deemed advisable to at once establish a large hospital at Ponce. Can you 
get the lumber, labor, and material necessary to jjut this order into execution 
immediately? Will send you nurses and doctors, as many as desired. This is of 
the utmost importance. Answer, giving number of nurses and doctors you deem 
will be required. 

R. A. Alger, Secretary of War. 

[First indorsement.] 

Respectfully referred to Col. Charles R. Greenleaf, chief surgeon army in the 
field, etc. 

[Second indorsement.] 

Respectfully returned to Headquarters of the Army, inviting attention to 
inclosed memorandum of conference regarding the subject-matter of this cable- 
gram. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters First Army Coups. 
Col. C. R. Greenleaf, 

Chief Surgeon, Ponce: 
Some money is badly needed here for the purchase of milk and other suitable 
food for the hospital. Can yoii not furnish some and send it up by my aide. Lieu- 
tenant McKenna, who will arrive in Ponce this morning with detachment of men 
we sent from here to the hospital at Ponce. 

John R. Brooke, Major General. 



5'J2 JNVEfeTKiATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 12, ISOS. 
Sternberg, Washington : 

Am depending on tents and transports from the United States. Can not prop- 
erly equip here. Prefer less number male nurses to any female nurses. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Cable.— General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon army in the field, Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

August 13, 1898. 
Two hundred hospital tents go by the Concho, leaving New York to-day. How 
many more do you want? 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August U, ISOS. 
The Chief Surgeon, 

General Wilson's Brigade : 
Wire daily to me number of sick in hospital and quarters. Have fresh vaccine. 
How many points do you want? Medical supplies now here. Send for what you 
want. Official list of wounded required at once. 

Greenleaf, Cldef Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, Office op the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 14, ISOS. 
Sternberg, Washington: 

No more hospital tents or medical supplies than those sent required at present. 
Will wir« when wanted. Health improving. Received money from Torney. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August I4, ISiiS. 
Dr. G. G. Groff, National Relief Commission. 

My Dear Dr. Groff: In looking over your supplies I find that there is a large 
quantity of stimulants, brandy, whisky, wine, etc. I do not think it is advisable 
to tise these except in very small ipiantities, since the Medical Department of the 
Army has a very large and sufficient supply. An excess of this character affords 
too great a temptation to men in camp, and I fear that it would be misapplied. 
I therefore advise that most of it be returned to the United States and exchanged 
for other and more desirable property. One or at most two packages of each 
kind might be left here. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. , 



REPLY OF SrUGEON-GENERAL. 593 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August U, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
., Sir: I have the honor to request that telegraphic instructions be sent to the 
headciuarters of Generals Wilson, Henry, and Schwan that no more sick ])e sent 
to the transfer hospital at Ponce Avithout first (jl)taining telegraphic authority from 
the chief surgeon of the army. 

That when sick are sent they shall invariably be accompanied by a medical 
officer and necessary attendants, with food and water, and that company com- 
manders be instructed to send their descriptive lists and medical officers their 
transcript lists. 

At present the sick are gathered indiscriminately, ^vithout order or any official 
records, and are unloaded unexpectedly at the hospital, where confusion and often- 
times deprivation of food for a while is unavoidable. 
The above orders will correct this abuse. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. H. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico. August 15, ISOS. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: In view of the change in the military situation I have now to renew my 

request f(jr the detachment of a brigade section (or as much from the corps reserve 

hospital of the First Army Corps under General Brooke's command as c'kn be 

spared) for duty at the military hospital in Ponce. 

The large number of typhoid cases gathered in the hospital require the services 

of extra nurses and there are none to be had from the troops stationed here. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General , United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army lu the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army', Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico. Augu.st 15, ISOS. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to recpiest that Maj. William H. Daly, chief surgeon, 
United States Volunteers, be directed to proceed from this place to General 
Schwan"s headquarters, in charge of medical supplies for the sick of that command, 
and deliver them to the chief surgeon, returning to these headquarters after com- 
pletion of that duty. Major Daly vnW re(iuire the services of a mounted orderly. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

78a;3— VOL. 1 38 



6'J4 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OK WAK WITH SPAIN. 

Hospital nupplies .sent by Major Dal/f to General Schwan's command at Mayagiiez 

or beyond. 



50 pajamas. 
I.ooo (luiuine, 

1 box li(nisewives»and bandages. 
3 boxes tobacco (large). 

6 dozen tobacco (shorts). 

2 dozen socks. 
18 dozen pipes. 
25 towels. 

1 box miscellaneotis groceries. 



8 boxes groceries. 

1 ginger ale. 

1 lime juice. 

1 whisky. 

1 blackberry brandy. 

1 brandy. 

1 port. 

1 vinegar (raspberry). 

1 grape jnice. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 15, ISOS. 

The Surgeon-General United States Army. 

Sir: Referring to my cablegram of the 14th instant, I have the honor to state 
that since the cessation of hostilities and the probability that l)ut a few more 
troops will be brought to Porto Rico, I think that the tent accommcidation and 
the medical supplies already sent and on the way will be sufficient to meet all 
ordinary conditions. Should there be a change, however, I can cable you in ample 
time to provide for anything extraordinary. 

My estimate for hospital accommodation sent in previous telegrams was based 
partly on the assiimption of an increase in force, which General Miles informed 
me would not be less than 25,000 men, and the order of the Secretary to keep all 
of our sick in this country. If these conditions had held, a very large hospital 
would have been necessary with all of its personnel and material. Such reports 
as I can get from medical officers at the front indicate a decided abatement in the 
number of tjiihoid cases and a much improved condition of health in the troops. 
Very resijectfully, 
* . Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Arm\% Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 15, ISOS. 
Chief Surgeon. First Brigade, First Division, 

Coamo, Porto Rico : 
A number of sick from the Second and Third Wisconsin and Sixteenth Penn- 
sylvania arrived at the military transfer hospital yesterday in a very bad condi- 
tion. They had neither medical officer, medicine, food, descriptive, or transfer 
lists. Ambulances crowded with baggage. Report by whose authority they were 
sent and why adeciuate provision was not made for them for the journey. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters op the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 17, ISDS. 

Surgeon Eg an. 

General Schwans Headquarters, Mayaguez: 

Employ necessary medical attendants for the sick, reporting your action to me. 

Major Daly left here yesterday with medical supplies and vaccine viriis for your 

command and with orders to inspect it. You had better await his arrival unless 

prompt action is indisi)ensably necessary. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 595 

[Cable.— I'lCiieral Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon army in tlie field, I'once, Porto Rico.] 

August 17, 1898. 
Your requisition for male nurses can not be filled. Can't you get Iiospital-coiiis 
men by transfer? If not have enlisted men detailed or employ civilians under 
contract at $i)0 per mouth ration. How many contract doctors do you want now? 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, Office op the Chief Surgeon, 

• Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, 1S9S. 
Gen. John R. Brooke, 

Coinnmnding First Army Corps, Guayama: 
Will send $50 to your command by Lieutenant McKenna. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, 1S98. 
Chief Surgeon Crile, 

General Henry's Headgxiarters: 
Can you get any men for hospital corps hy transfer from the line? If so, how 
many? If not, can you get details for hospital service from the line, and how 



many? 



Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, 1S9S. 
Huidekoper, 

Chief Surgeon First Army Corps, Guayama: 
Plenty of cots and supplies here. Will send all I can with General Grant's hos- 
pital train that leaves here on Saturday. Shall I load entirely wnth cots? Can 
you send wagons here for supplies? Do not learn anji:hing about cots from Maf*- 
sachusetts. None on wharf. Wii*e daily your condition. 

Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, 1S9S. 
Lieut. Col. R. Huidekoper, 

. Surgeon, United States Volunteers, Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 
Sir: There is a great need in this command of nurses for the sick in the transfer 
hospital at Ponce. Will you ijlease report to me by wire as soon as possible, 
first, how many of the hospital corps you can sjiare in addition to the brigade sec- 
tion ordered for that service: second, if more transfers can be made fi'om the line 
to the hospital cori)s, and if so, how many: third, if these additional transfers 
can not be made, how many men are available for detail from the line as nurses? 
Also w^re me daily the general condition of health of the command, aggregate 
sick, and character of disease. 

Respectfully, . 

P. S.— H you have not sent the required reports from the First Corps to the 
Surgeon-General regarding personnel and material, please do so as soon as pos- 
sible and notify me. 



59(! INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Pm^t Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, 1S:)S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to recommend that General Henry be directed to detail 
two medical officers and six members of the hospital corps for duty with Gen- 
eral Schwan's command, in which the chief surgeon reports a large number of 
fever cases. 

In response to my telegram Major Crile, chief surgeon for General Henry's com- 
mand, reports Drs. McGillicuddy and Gross, with six hospital cori^s men, as 
available. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



[Ciiblegram. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, ISDS. 
Sternberg , Washington : 

Am trying to get soldier nurses by transfer and detail. May succeed since 
armistice. Civilians here undesirable. Ten good doctors will answer now. 

Greenleaf 



[Telegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, IS'JS. 
Surgeon Eagan, 

Chief Surgeon , General Schuxm's Ditnsion, Mayaguez, Porto Rico: 
Have requested a detail of two medical officers and six hospital-corps men 
from Henry's command to report to you. Get all the men you can by transfer to 
Hospital Coi-ps. If you fail, ask for detail to care for the sick. 

Greenleaf. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August IS, ISDS. 
Major Woodbury, 

Sanitary Inspector, General Wilson's headquarters: 
Examine into advisability of establishing a tent hospital of 250 beds in the 
vicinity of General Wilson's command, and if advisable select site. Make report 
to me in person, if possible, at earliest convenience. 

Greenleaf. 



i 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August ID, isns. 
Assistant Surgeon Hartsock, 

Medical Sup2)ly Officer. 
Sir: Please deliver to Lieutenant McKenna for Lieutenant-Colont;! Huideknper, 
chief surgeon, First Army Corps, as many cots as the ambulances which he has 

wiU carry. 

Greenleaf. 



REPLY OK SURGEON-GENERAL. 597 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Potato Rico, August 19, ISOS. 

The Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Sir: 
* * * * * * * 

The i)ecnliar character of this campaign has necessitated the detachment of 
small bodies of troops from the main commands, which requires the detail of a 
number of medical officers and hospital-corps men whose services are really 
needed in the field hospitals. Several of the organizations lately arrived, notably 
the First United States Volunteer Engineers and the New York cavalry, have no 
other members of the Hospital Corps than their hospital stewards, and so many 
objections to transfers from the line to the Hospital Cordis are made by other 
regimental commanders that it is quite impossible to supply oiir needs from that 
source. I am, therefore, having the services i^erformed so far as practicable by 
details from the line. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 19, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith three bills for disinfectants, one 
purchased by Major Daly, one by Major Woodbury, and one by myself, for use 
in disinfecting the buildings used as headquarters, the military barracks, and the 
military hospital, with request that they be referred to the Quartermaster's 
Department for payment. 

Under Army Regulation 1462, and paragraph 120, Maniial of the Medical Depart- 
ment, the issue of disinfectants by the Medical Department for post sanitation is 
prohibited, such articles being considered as medicines for use with the sick. 

The conditions under which they were ordered were those of an emergency, 

immediately xv^on the arrival of the troops, and there was no time to go tlu'ough 

the routine of requisitions or special authority in the matter. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 19, 1S9S, 
Sternberg, Washington: 

No new typhoids reported. Sharp increase of intestinal disorders. Can secure 
detailed nurses. Send by Relief hospital mess fiirniture for .500 patients. Also 
astringents, disinfectants, tonics, strychnia, farinaceous hospital stores, condensed 
cream, no liquors, clinical thermometers, pillow cases, thin mattresses. 

Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 19, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: In compliance Avith telegraphic request made by mo at Siboney to Gen- 
eral Ludington, quartermaster-general, 27 ambulances, complete. \\nt\\ civilian 
drivers, were sent from the United States as a headquarters ambulance train. 
Since their arrival the number has been diminished by assignments to troops 
in the field until there now remains but 15 attached to headcpiarters. 



598 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH 8PAIN. 

[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 20, 1S9S. 
Surgeon Eg an. 

Brigade Surgeon, Mayaguez, Porto Rico: 
Two medical officers and five privates, Hosijital Corps, are on their way to report 
to yon from General Henry's headt^iTarters. Dr. Daly, from these headquarters, 
should reach yoTi with sui^plies to-day. Wire me when he arrives. No hospital 
ship expected under ten days. 

GtREENLEAF. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 20, 1S9S. 
Colonel Huidekoper, 

Chief Surgeon, Guayama: 
Concho has arrived. Tents will be unloaded probably in two days. Agent 
Red Cross here with iilenty of groceries. Will send him to you as soon as things 
are off ship. Can furnish medicines with the tents. No clinical thermometers 

here. 

Greenleaf. 



[Firat indorsement.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce. Porto Rico, A^ignst 21. 1S9S. 
Respectfully forwarded to Headquarters of the Army, approved and recom- 
mended. 

It is particularly desirable to use all of the hospital tents, which will be pitched 
in the vicinity of the transfer hospital, for the care of the sick, and the buildings 
mentioned within are so conveniently located that their use will be very desirable. 

Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 21, 1S9S. 
Major Crile, Chief Surgeon, Utuado: 

McGillicuddy has reported and will be sent by rail and carriage to-day. Gen- 
eral Gilmore tells me that General Henry has full aiithority to move his coni- 
malid anywhere within the lines he may desire on account of health. Use your 
discretion in sending Dr. Gross away. Ample medical supplies are here. Have 
filled reqiTisition you sent. No means of getting it to you. Can you not send for 
it and any other medical supplies you require? 

Greenleaf. 



Headquarters op the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 21, 1S98. 
Major Parkgill, 

General Wilson's Headquarters: 
Corps reserve have been drawn on for transfer hospital to their limit. Use 
men from ambulance company not engaged with horses for hospital service. 
Doctors with ambulance company must do duty in hospital if their services are 
needed there. Call on Sixteenth Pennsylvania for details as nurses if you need 
them. Will wire later about contract doctors. 

Greenleaf. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 509 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 21, 1S98. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that there is on the steamship Concho, now in this 
harbor, 200 hospital tents, sent here by the Surgeon-General United States Army, 
for the purpose of establishing tent hospitals ordered to be erected by the Secre- 
tary of War. The necessity for the erection of these hospitals is very great, and 
I ask that efforts be made to unload these tents at the earliest possible moment 
and that the quartermaster be directed to send by the first opportunity 20 of them 
to the chief surgeon of General Brooke's command, 50 to the chief surgeon of 
General Wilson's command, and the remainder to be sent to the transfer hospital 
at Ponce. 

Very respectfully. Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 21, 1S98. 
The Adjutant-General, Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to state that Assistant Surgeon McGillicudy, with six 
privates of the Hospital Corps, arrived here last night from Utuado (General 
Henry's head(iuarters) , en route to Mayaguez, in General Sehwan's command. 

Their services are urgently required with the large number of sick at that 
place, and I request that authority be given the quartermaster to send them at 
once by train to Yauco and by carriage to their destiijation. If possible to send 
them by special engine this morning I requested this to be done. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 22, 1898. 
The Surgeon-General. United States Army, 

Washington, D. C. 
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the steamship Concho an-ived at this 
port the day before yesterday. The quartermasters here inform me that the 200 
hospital tents you sent are in the bottom of the hold, the whole ship's cargo being 
packed on top of them, and that at least a week .must elapse before they can be 
reached, since the ship is obliged to go to Arroyo to unload forage for General 
Brooke's command. The ground upon which the auxiliary field hospital at this 
point is to be pitched has been prepared by the engineers, and the flooring and 
frames for the tents prepared by the quartermaster. I could put 300 patients into 
them to-morrow if I had the tents. At present the hospitals here and at the front 
are filled to overflowing, but we are compelled to put up with the existing con- 
ditions until these tents are available. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf. 

War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, August 22, 1898. 
Col. Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Troops in the Field, Porto Rico. 
My Dear Colonel: 

******* 

I hope you will not send any more critical cases of tyiihoid, as they are almost 
sure to die at sea. I have endeavored to send you the suppliers asked for ni your 



600 INVESTIGATION OP CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

telegraui, but the Secretary insists that the Relief must sail to-morrow, and it is 
possible that Brown will not succeed in getting all the supplies on board. If you 
need more money of the medical and hospital appropriation, Torney will turn 
over to you that which he has. My special fund is exhausted, but there is scarcely 
anything that you can not pay for on proper vouchers from the medical and hos- 
pital appropriation. I have already sent you by the Obdam a number of contract 
doctors, and shall send some more by the Relief. Upon her arrival, if you still 
need more, let me know by cable. I also hope to get 20 trained male nurses from 
Boston to go by the Relief, but in view of the positive orders that she must sail 
to-morrow it is possible that they may fail to get on board. 
Very sincerely, yours, 

Geo. M. Sternberg. 



SAMPLE OF REQUISITION SENT TO CHIEF SURGEON OF THE ARMY AT PONCE 
PORTO RICO, AUGUST, 1898. (THIS IS MORE EXPLICIT THAN MANY OTHERS.) 

Supplies needed at field hospital near Coamo, First Brigade, First Division, First 

Corps, August 19, 1898. 

Delicacies for the sick of any description, tea and sugar especially. 

Cots for sick. 

More blankets. 

Thermometers. 

Tonic medicines especially. 

Tr. Cinchon. Comii. 

Ext. Hydras. Fid. 

Sheets, pillows, pillow slips, shirts or- pajamas (not necessaries). 

Cups for medicines and drinks. 

Spoons for same purpose. 

Platters or plates of any sort for same purpose. 

Surgeon's needles. Emergency cases for sudden sick calls. 

Canvas needles and t^vine for repairing tents. 

Wash basins. 

Large sponges for bathing sick. 

Soai). 

Towels. 



Headquarters of the First Army Corps, 

Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Guayavia, Porto Rico, August ^4, 1898. 
Col. Charles R. Greenleaf, 

Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 
Sir: 

* * * * * * » 

In the confusion of rapid transportation, for which the medical department 
was not responsible, of leaving Cliickamauga, loading on transport at Newport 
News, and unloading by lighters at Ai-royo, considerable property has disap- 
peared. I believe much of it never reached Newiwrt News, and some there was 
not loaded on the transports. Our tentage issued as " new " in bales just before 
leaving Chickamauga proved to be much of it worthless. This has been replaced 
by good tents. We received today a number of cots from the Stilhvafer and 
Concho and a supply of tiseful foods and some medicines. I took a city biiilding 
in Guayama, and after thorough cleansing and disinfecting moved in those cases 



REPLY OF SlTRGEON-(iENERA.L. dOl 

of fever needing special bathing and attention — about thirty — and the remainder 
of hospital sick are in a well-located tent camp. I have bnilt furnaces and 
burn all excreta, even in the city hospital to that of the attendants. I shall 
extend this to the field hospital to reiilace the sinks. On June 25 I telegrai)hed 
the Surgeon-General for blanks for reports, and during July made requisition 
in wi'iting and telegraphed, but received none. I will make, however, on plain 
paper a complete report of medical officers. First Corps, of enlisted men so far as 
my data permit, and of material. We have but 200 enlisted men, Hospital Coi-ps, 
here. Some of these are sick, and I am overworking what I have, and could not 
detach any without serious detriment to the care of our own men. 

* * -X- * * * * 

When I have been allowed to get transfers from the line of hospital-corps men, 
I have been obliged to name the men. Some good ones have reached me. In 
other cases the officers have recommended worthless men they wanted to get rid of. 
Throughout I have had the opposition of the commanding officers in carrying oiit 
the organization desired. 

******* 

We need clinical thermometers. No amount of requisitions at Chickamauga 
could jjrocure them. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant. 

Rush S. Huidekoper, 
Lieutenant-Colonel, Chief Surgeon, United States Volunteers, 

Chief Surgeon First Army Corps. 



[Cable.— General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, cbief surgeon army in the field, Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

August 26, 1898. 
Do not fail to make timely requisition for everything needed for the care and 
comfort of the sick. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Ponce, Porto Rico, August 20, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to invite attention to an existing and gr'owing abuse in 
the use of ambulances of this command, more particularly with reference to the 
transportation of supplies of all kinds. The law and regulation on this subject 
is imperative and limits the use of an amlnilance for hauling sui>plies to ])eriods 
of great emergency. I recommend that the attention of division commanders be 
called to this matter, and that officers be directed to call upon the quartermaster's 
department for transportation of. medical siipplies, using an ambulance only 
when the quartermaster fails to meet the request. 

Very resiiectfuUy, 

Chas. R. Greenleajp. 



[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 27, 1S9S. 
Sternberg, Washington: 

Reqviisition for necessary articles cabled you Augiist 19. 

Greenleaf. 



G02 INVESTIGATION OF CONDTTCT OF WAR WITH IATAIN. 
MEMORANDUM FOB COLONEL GREENLEAF. 

Major Black, quartermaster at Ponce, reports that the hospital tents sent on 
the Conclio are in the bottom of the hold and can not be reached until all the rest 
of the cargo is unloaded. 

Coneho arrived on the 20th of Angnst; was sent to Arroyo to partially unload 
oats, and the tents were finally unloaded at Ponce, August 27. 

C. R. G. 



[Cable — General Sternberg to Colonel Greeuleaf, chief surgeon army in the field, Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

August 28, 1898. 
When you have list of supplies sent by Relief, cable for additional articles 
required. Acknowledge receipt. 



[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 3S, 1S98. 
Sternberg, Washington : 
Please send Miss Rutty and 30 female nurses to general hospital, Ponce. 

reenleaf. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August !?S, 1S9S. 
Snowden, Chief Surgeon, Coamo: 

Have you arranged for transportation of hospital tents, flooring, etc. The 
matter should be expedited as rajndly as possible. Same train should carry 
furniture for the hospital and extra supplies if yoit need them. 

Greenleaf. 



[Cable— General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon army iu the field, Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

August 29, 1898. 
If you need more money let me know. Buy everything necessary for the care 
and comfort of the sick. Acknowledge receipt. 



[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 29, 1S98. 
Sternberg, Washington: 

Relief here unloading supplies . Plenty of money for present use . Have arranged 

for timely renewal of supplies. Nothing leaves here except in good order. Field 

and hospital arrangements satisfactory, biit nurses needed, as cabled yesterday. 

Huidekoper and Woodbury fully competent to manage affairs here. 

Greenleaf. 



REPLY OF SURGEOX-GENERAL. TIOS 

APPLICATION OF THE SURGEON IN CHARGE OF GENERAL HOSPITAL IN PONCE FOR 

FIFTY NURSES. 

[First indorsement.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 20, 1898. 
Respectfully forwarded to the Surgeon-Greneral of the Anny. Every effort has 
been made to obtain male nurses for this hospital. I succeeded in getting enough 
men to do the work (indifferently) before the addition of tents, but now, with a 
prospect of returning home before them, men can not be had who will give any- 
thing like satisfactory service. I therefore cabled you to-day for Miss Rutty and 
30 female nurses to be sent here. I know her to be a good administrator and a 
valuable woman, and if she can bring with her the nurses who were on the Litm- 
pasas I shall be much pleased and you may be sure of good service. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 



[Cablegram.] 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 31, 1898. 

Sternberg, Washington : 

Request that provisions of general order be extended to field hospitals in Porto 

Rico. G-eneral Miles concurs and urgently recommends it. 

Greenleaf. 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 12-SANITATION OF CAMPS. 

Circular ) War Department. Surgeon-General's Office, 

No. 1. J Washington, April 25, 1S9S. 

In time of war a cfreat responsibility rests upon medical officers of the Army, 
for the result of a campaign may depend upon the sanitary measures adopted or 
neglected by commanding generals of armies in the field. The medical officer is 
responsible for proper recommendations relating to the protection of the health of 
troops in camp or in garrison, and it is believed that, as a rule, medical officers of 
the United States Army are well informed as to the necessary measxires of pro- 
phylaxis and the serious results which infallibly follow a neglect of these meas- 
ures, especially when unacclimated troops are called upon for service in a tropical 
or semi tropical country during the sickly season. In Cuba our armies will have 
to contend not only with malarial fevers and the iisual camp diseases — tyiihoid 
fever, diarrhea, and dysentery — but they will be more or less exposed in localities 
where yellow fever is endemic and under conditions extremely favorable for the 
development of an epidemic among unacclimated troops. In view of this danger, 
the attention of medical officers and of all others responsible for the health of our 
troops in the field is invited to the following recommendations: 

When practicable, camps should be established on high and well-drained ground 
not previously occupied. 

Sinks should be dug before a camp is occtipied or as soon after as practicable. 
The surface of fecal matter should be covered with fresh earth or quicklime or 
ashes three times a day. 

New sinks should be dug and old ones filled when contents of old ones are 2 feet 
from surface of ground. 

Every man shoiild be punished who fails to make use of the sinks. 

All kitchen refuse should be promptly buried and perfect sanitary police main- 
tained. 

Troops should drink only boiled or filtered water and coffee or tea (hot or cold), 
except where spring water can be obtained which is pronounced to be wholesome 
by a medical officer. 

Every case of fever should receive prompt attention. If albumin is found in the 
urine of a patient with fever, it should be considered suspicious (of yellow fever), 
and he shoiild be placed in an isolated tent. The discharges of patients with fever 
should always be disinfected at once with a sohition of carbolic acid (5 per cent) 
or of chloride of lime (6 ounces to gallon of water) or ^\^th milk of lime made 
from fresh quicklime. 

Whenever a case of yellow fever occurs. in camp, the troops should be promptly 
moved to a fresh camping ground located a mile or more frona infected camp. 

No doubt typhoid fever, camp diarrhea, and probably yellow fever are fre- 
quently commimicated to soldiers in camp through the agency of flies, which 
swarm about fecal matter and filth of all kinds deposited upon the ground or in 
shallow pits and directly convey infectious material, attached to their feet or con- 
tained in their excreta, to the food which is exposed while being prepared at the 
company kitchens or while being served in the mess tent. It is for this reason 
that a strict sanitary police is so important. Also l)ecaiise the water supply may 
be contaminated in the same way or by surface drainage. 
604 



REPLY OF SUUGKON'-GENEKAL. 605 

If it can be avoided, marches should not be made in the hottest part of the day— 
from 10 a. ni. to 5 j). m. 

When called upon for duty at night or early in the UK^rning, a cup of hot coffee 
should be taken. 

It is unsafe to eat heartily or drink freely when ((reatly fatigued or overheated. 

Ripe fruit may be eaten in moderation, but green or overripe fruit will give 
rise to bowel complaints. Food should be thoroughly cooked and free from fer- 
mentation or ijutrefactive changes. 

In decidedly malarious localities from 3 to 5 grains of (piinint! may be taken in 
the early morning as a prophylactic, but the taking of (piinine as a routint; prac- 
tice should only be recommended under exceptional circiimstances. 

Light woolen underclothing should be worn, and when a soldier's clothing or 
bedding becomes damp from exposure to rain or heavy dews the first opportunity 
should be taken to dry it in the sun or by fires. 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General United States Army, 

Note. — Circular No. 8 is the last of the series of 1897. 



Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington, D. C, June 9, 189S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to state that, in compliance with instructions from the 
major-general commanding, I left Washington on Monday night. May 21, for the 
purpose of inspecting the medical department of the troops encamped at Tampa, 
Fla.; Mobile, Ala.; Chickamauga, Ga., and Falls Church, Va., and submit here- 
with the following report: 

I an'ived at Tampa, Fla., on the morning of the 25th ultimo, and, after reporting 
to Major-General Shaffer commanding and informing him of my orders, pro- 
ceeded to inspect the condition of the medical department. 

The chief surgeon had commenced the organization of his depot, establishing 
division hospitals and ambulance companies by breaking up the regimental hos- 
pitals and absorbing, as far as possible, their xiersonnel and material. The deeply 
rooted i^rejudice in favor of the regimental hospital organization made this some- 
what difficiilt, since commanding officers disliked to part with medical and hos- 
I)ital property which they looked upon as belonging to the regiment, but after 
explaining the plan of organization (which is simply the one in use during the 
last four years of the late war, modified to meet modern conditions) this opposi- 
tion gave away, and, as a rule, our elforts were cheerfully seconded by the officers 
of the line. General Sliafter took great interest in the; matter and faciltated the 
woi-k by the immediate issuance of orders placing the organization on its proper 
footing. 

The service of the department was. however, seriously handicapped by a scarcity 
of members of the Hospital Corps, the volunteer regiments being entirely with- 
out them, owing to failure of Congress to legislate for their enlistment, and as 
the measures taken by the War Department to provide for this deficit had not yet 
been formiilated in orders, it was impossible to take any steps toward a regular 
formation of the troops for the volunteers. The necessary work, was, however, 
performed by men detailed from the lino for duty until final provision is made for 
their transfer to the cori)s. 

While among the regular troops there is a number of hospital corps men, it is 
insufficient for active service. Efforts are being made to enlist the corps to its full 
strength, with good prospects of success. The men now on duty are well drilled 



606 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

and very efficient. I telegraphed the Surgeon-General urging the prompt issuance 
of the general order governing transfers from the volunteer troops to i^ie regular 
Hospital Corps, but this was not done until after my return to Washington. Dr. 
Guiteras, the yellow-fever expert associated with the chief surgeon of the Fifth 
Corps, informed me that there would be no difficulty in enlisting into the Hosi^ital 
Corps a sufficient number of yellow-fever nurses to care for the sick in the event 
of the appearance of that disease among the troops. 

The quantity of medical and hospital supplies is limited. As a rule the regular 
troops broiight with them a sufficient supply to last about three months, but in 
nearly every instance the volunteer troops on arrival at camp were destitute of 
everything of this kind. Before leaving Washington the Surgeon-General had 
informed me that he had ordered ample supplies of all kinds from the New York 
and St. Louis depots, but they had not arrived, and the chief surgeon had no 
notification that they had even left the depots. 

In order to meet the immediate wants of the sick it was necessary to draw upon 
the slender supplies brought by the regular troops, and at the time of my arrival 
many of their medicines were entirely exhausted. I telegraphed the Surgeon- 
General, requesting that the corps chief surgeon be authorized to piirchase in the 
local markets such medicines as were necessary to meet the emergency. This 
was done, and a sufficient supply for the purpose was at once secured. Outfits 
for hospitals could not, however, be obtained, and the vahie of the division hos- 
pital organization was at once demonstrated by the ability of the medical depart- 
ment to furnish every care f qr the sick of the volunteer troops in addition to those 
of the regular service. On my return to Washington I took steps to push forward 
the lacking supplies, as will be referred to later on. It is proper to state here that 
the Surgeon-General informed me he had received the ijromise from the governors 
of nearly all the States to transfer to the State troops the hospital oiitfits belong- 
ing to the militia until such time as regular supplies could be furnished. It 
appears, however, that in many instances this was not done, and several of the 
surgeons informed me that the State authorities declined to permit them to retain 
the State medical supplies after they had been mustered into the United States 
service. 

To facilitate the receipt and distribution of supplies to the several hospitals and 
regiments, a medical officer has been assigned as corps supply officer, who receives 
supplies directly from the depots and distributes them directly throughout the 
corps. While I was at Tampa report was received that four regiments of volun- 
teers, under command of General Lawton, had been halted at Jacksonville and 
were entirely without medical supplies. I directed the corps chief surgeon to 
request orders sending a medical officer with a field hospital, complete both as to 
personnel and material, to this point, with instriictions to remain and care for the 
sick iintil the supplies intended for the command should be received. The officer 
left, as directed, the next morning. 

Regarding ambulances, the regular troops in most instances brought them along 
completely equipped, but the number is insufficient for field service. The volunteer 
troops were, as a rule, without any. The Quartermaster's Department informed 
me that the q,ggregate number estimated for was under construction, and was 
being shipped as rapidly as completed. I saw a large number of the freight cars 
en route to the several camps, and have reason to believe that they have by this 
time reached their proper destination. In the matter of equipment, harness, etc, 
the supply is not quite so satisfactory, and there will doubtless be some delay 
before they are completely furnished. 

Of hand litters there is a large deficit among the regular troops, and none have 
as yet been provided for the volunteer troops. The Medical and Quartermaster's 
departments are having them manufactured as rapidly as possible. The former 



KEIM>Y OF SUkUEON-GENERAL. 607 

will forward them in lots to the ambulance companies and division ho.si)itals and 
the latter to companies as directed, it liaviny: been decided that each company will 
carry one hand litter. 

Of mounts f(ir the Hospital Corps there is a supply at Tampa and Mobile, but a 
deficit at Chickamauga and Falls Church. Here, also, the matter of equipment, 
saddles, etc., is deficient, but I am informed by the Ordnance Department that 
every effort has been made to meet it. 

Of tentage there is an unequal supply, some commands having enough, while 
others are quite deficient. I observed a number of hospital tents in use at the 
several headqiiarters and elsewhere among the troops, and directed the coi-jis 
chief surgeons, whenever their hospitals were in need of tentage, to recpiest the 
corps commander to have these tents transferred to the medical department. 

The health of the troops is remarkable good, the aggregate percentage of sick 
to the effective force being a trifle over 2 per cent at Tampa and Mobile. It is 
probably about the same at Chickamauga and Falls Church, although absolute 
figures could not be obtained at these latter-named places because of the inability 
of the corps chief surgeon to obtain reports from the volunteer medical officers. 
I, however, examined the regimental books and the division hospital records in a 
number of cases, and satisfied myself that the rate of sickness was not mucli 
greater than with the regular troops. The diseases are generally of the digestive 
apparatus, due to the change of habits by the recruit and unavoidable errors in 
diet and cooking incident to an early campaign. There are also a few cases of 
pneumonia and typhoid fever, the latter evidently originating in the homes of the 
recruits. There were a few cases of measles and mumps, which were promptly 
isolated and measures taken to prevent the spread of these contagious diseases 
among the troops. 

The several points dealt with in this report refer equally to all the camps that 
I visited. 

In general the sanitary condition of the camps was very good. Criticism was 
made regarding the water supply at Falls Church, and at my inspection of this 
command I was associated, by order of the Secretary of War, with his military 
aid, Major Hopkins, U. S. Volunteers, to make special inquiry into this matter, 
which we did, finding that the water supply, while sufficient for cooking and 
drinking, was entirely insufficient for laundry and bathing purposes. Work had 
been begun to increase this water supply by the sinking of driven wells, two of 
which were giving a large flow and two others it was expected would be com- 
pleted the next day. We recommend either an increase of the number of driven 
wells to the extent of one for each regiment or the concentration of a number of 
such wells in a plant to be operated by a motor and the water piped tt) the several 
commands. 

Under the conditions of an active campaign it is undesirable that mc>n who are 
seriously ill shall be retained in the division hospitals, and it lias therefore been 
decided to transfer such cases, as soon as they are determined, to general liospitals 
in the North, the Surgeon-General having selected McPherson Barracks. Atlanta, 
Ga., to receive the sick from Tampa, Mobile, and Chic-kamauga, and Fort Myer, 
Va., to receive the sick from Falls Church. In addition to this general hospital 
accommodation, there has just been donated by Mrs. Leiter, of Washington, a 
large hotel adjacent to the grounds at Chi(-kamauga, which will accommodate 
400 or 500 beds. The Surgeon-General is now having this fitted out with modern 
appliances and has assigned a. medical officer to take charge of it. The transfer 
of the sick between these points afid the general hospitals is to be effec-ted b>'^ 
railway hospital train which the Surgeon-General has already organized, con- 
sisting of a number of tourist sleeper cars with a dining and dispensary car 
attached. The headquarters of this train will be established at present at Tampa, 



508 invp:stig!ation of conduct of war with spain. 

from which sections may be sent to Mobile or Chickamauga, as necessary. The 
whole train will accommodate about 200 beds, and at a later date this is intended to 
operate in conjunction with the hospital shiij, which will ply between the United 
States and any other point at which the troops may be operating. 

Regarding personnel of the medical department, I found the medical officers 
zealous and indefatigable in the jjerformance of their duty; fully alive to the 
responsibility which rested upon them, and, so far as professional foresight can 
go, active in the preparation of measures to preserve the health of the command. 
I directed the issuance of sanitary circulars to the troops, containing, in brief but 
plain language, general directions for the preservation of their health. On my 
return to Washington I found that the order authorizing the transfer of men 
from the volunteer troops to the Hospital Corps had not been issued. Being fully 
aware of the largent necessity for this action, I secured the cooperation of the 
Adjutant-General, and on the evening of the day of my arrival it was printed 
and distributed. I also found that the medical supplies which had been ordered 
from the depots were still undelivered, but by a vigorous use of the telegraph at 
both ends of the line succeeded in getting a large amount through and delivered 
to the commands the next day. 

I have issued a circular letter to the corps chief surgeons requiring a weekly 
report from them of the sanitary condition and general efficiency of the hospital 
service, this report to be made with telegi-aphic brevity and to deal with such 
matters as may, in the opinion of the corps chief surgeons, require my adminis- 
trative action. The percentage of sick and wounded to the aggregate strength of 
the command is to be given, and remarks are invited upon any subject that may 
be necessary to enable me to keep the general commanding informed as to the 
health and efficiency of the troops. 

* * * * * * * 

I had the advantage of General Lee's presence throughout the entire time. 
The chief surgeon of the coi-ps has made very satisfactory progress with the organ- 
ization of the medical department, having already secured a sufficient number of 
men by transfers from the volunteer regiments to perform all the necessary work 
of the medical department. Before making an official transfer of these men a 
careful examination was made as to their physical condition, the result demon- 
strating the fact that a certain number of men have crept into the regiments 
whose physical condition is unsatisfactory, and who shoiild therefore be dis- 
charged from the service. In the examination of 140 men the chief siirgeon found 
15 so disabled. This fact suggests the projiriety of a reexamination of the vohm- 
teer forces at an early date, and in such manner as will avoid hostile criticism, for 
the purpose of eliminating this undesirable element. The medical department of 
this corjjs is still without its full equipment of supplies, but the chief surgeon has, 
by the exercise of judgment, obtained by purchase and other means sufficient 
material to provide properly for the sick of the command until the receipt of its 
regular outfit. Fortunately the health of the command is remarkably good, the 
average percentage of sick to the effective force being given to me by the chief 
surgeon as a trifle less than 1 per cent. I visited the division field hospital and 
found there a few cases of tyijhoid fever and pneumonia. There are also some 
cases of measles and mumps. All these have been isolated, and proper measures 
taken to prevent the si^read of these diseases among the troops. The remaining 
cases were not serious, and all were as comfortable as sick men could be in camj?. 
The water supply of the command is derived from artesian wells worked by motor 
'power for the supply of the city, and is inpfed to the command. The water is of 
excellent quality. 

The disposal of the excreta is effected by cremation, dry-earth closets being 
used by the men and contents gathered by a city scavenger. 



REPLY OF SUKC.EON GENERAL. HOf) 

ScliooLs of instrxxction in military diiiirs luivt- hrcii (•sla1)lislif'(l for the volunteer 
}uedical officers, who are faitlifnl in the (li.schargo of their duty and zealous in 
their efforts for gaining information. 

* * * -;t -.<- -x- * 

Very respectfully, etc., 

Chas. R. Gheenleaf. Colonel, etc. 



cikcular letter to corps chief surgeons. 

Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington, June 6, 1S08, 
The chief sxirgeon, troops in the field, desires from chief surgeons of army 
corps a report on the sanitary conditicjn of the trooi)s with which they are serv- 
ing and of the efficiency of the medical and hospital service, this report to be 
mailed on Saturday of each week, whenever jiracticable; to be of telegraphic 
brevity in composition (after the manner of aix informatioix slip) and to deal 
with sxxch items as may, in the opinion of the corps chief sui'geon, reqixire gen- 
eral adxninistrative action by the chief sixrgeon of the troops or be desirable for 
his information. Pai'ticxxlar mention shoxxld be xnade of existing deficiencies in 
supplies, with statexnent whether or ixot dixe requisitioix has beeix ixxade to nxeet 
them; of the perceixtage of ixoixeffective to effective strength; the ixotable preva- 
lence of axxy i)articxxlar disease or the existeixce of any specially uixsanitary condi- 
tioix; the efficiexxcy and gexxeral coixditioxx of the division hospitals, ambxxlaixce 
coxixpaxxies, and regimeixtal dispeixsaries, aixd any remarks that ixxay be desired tt) 
enable the chief sxxrgeoxx to keep the general comnxaixdiixg inforxxied as to the 
health of the troops. 

Very respectfxxlly, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



telegrams sent to surgeon-general from TAMPA. 

June 11, 1S98. 
How loixg before the hospital ship and railway train will be available? The 
ship should, if possible, go with the expeditioxx ixow on transports at Tami«i. If 
it caix not shall I call oxx the Red Cross shipV Traixspoi'ts very heavily loaded. 
Sickness to be aixticipated. 



June 11, 1898. 
Military sxtxxatioxx reepxires coixtixxued occupancy of Florida by troops. Have 
received the gradxxal assigxxment of 20,000 to Fernandina, 5.000 to Miami, both 
recently iixspected by ixxe. May sexxd some to St. Axxgxxstine. Military ipxaraixtine 
to be established wlxexi xxecessary. Rigid sanitation aixxoxig txoops coxnxxxeixced 
axxd will be contixxxxed. Miaixxi to be xxsed as point of coxxtiixxxed debarkation Wa 
Key West in detachxuents 500 to 1,000. Conference to-night with (xuiteras. 
Poixe, axxd O'Reilly, aixd later with State. Ferxxaixdiixa, axid Miaixii health officials 
regax-dxxig xnxxixxcipal hygieixe axxd cpxax-axxtiixe. 



June 1'3. 1898. 
Please reqxxest Wyxxxaxx to direct his officers in the South to fxxrxxxslx xne tele- 
graphic dxxplicates of their reixorts to hixn regarding the occxxrreixce of yellow 
fever iix their district; also to axxthorize tlxexxx to cooperate with ixxe wlxeix desired 
in (pxarantiixe xxieasures. It is iixxportant that I should be fully and promixtly 
iixforixxed iix this matter, 

7833— VOL. 1 3U 



610 INVESTKIATION OF CONDUCT OF WAll WITH SPAIN. 

Headquarters of the Army, 
Li the Field, Tampa, Fla., June 13, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to report that on the 10th instant the chief surgeon of the 
Fourth Corps reported to me that seven cases of yellow fever had occurred at 
McHenry, a lumber camp or village in Mississippi, about 20 miles northward 
inland from Gulf port, and about 75 miles, more or less, northwesterly from 
Mobile. I at once called the principal medical officers on duty at Tampa together 
for conference upon the subject, at which it was decided to recommend that the 
troops near Mobile and the depot of supplies at Mobile be immediately moved to 
Mount Vernon barracks, and I so recommended to the major-general commanding. 

I also recommended that the town of Tampa and the several camps thereal)out 
be at once put into the best possible sanitary condition, which was promptly com 
menced. It is further recommended tliat all troops and recruits enlisted west of 
the fever-infected district be not allowed to at once join the army at Tampa, but 
be sent to Alabama or some such point for ten days, to furnish assurance that 
they do not bear the germs of infection. 

Experience has demonstrated the necessity of camping troops in such places as 
may be made safe against introduction of this disease, and I recommend that pro- 
vision be made as soon as possible for transporting the troops now at Jacksonville 
(which would be a place of exposure should the disease advance from its present 
location) to Fernandina, and that other troops be transferred to Miajni. I have 
recently inspected these points, under orders from the Secretary of War, and found 
them well adapted, after some preparation, to the purpose, since they can be com- 
pletely qiiarantined. 

This latter movement may be made gradually; but should the city of Mobile or 
any point in Alabama become the seat of infection the movement should be made 
at once and rigid quarantine be established, with inspection of all incoming trains 
and vessels. 

The Marine-Hospital Service and the health authorities of Florida have a regu- 
lar system for this purpose, and I am assured of their full cooperation in any 
measures the army takes to prevent the introduction of the disease. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, Colonel, etc. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Washington, D. C, June 22, ISDS. 

The Surgeon-General United States Army. 

Sir: In connection with my recent inspection of the medical department at 
Camp Alger, Va., I have the honor to make the following recommendation: 

Disinfection of tents, etc. This problem is one of present necessity. In each 
of the several army corps that I have visited there have been a large number of 
measles cases, necessitating the establishing of special hospitals for their treat- 
ment, with outfits, complete. The property so used is now quite large, involving 
tents, cots, blankets, etc., all of which is liable to be needed at other and distant 
points as the army may move, and which should, before any movement, be dis- 
infected. While this may be done by means of sulphur fumigation, it seems to 
me that the more efficient disinfectant, formalin, might be used, and if apparatus 
for the purpose is practicable for field use, where it might be kept vnih. other 
apparatus at the division field hospital, I recommend that one be selected and 
furnished for the use of each corps. If it is deemed necessary that the process of 
disinfection should be carried on in a closed room, authority to be given the corps 



REPLY OF SrKGEON-(;ENEKAL. Gil 

chief surgeon to rent for this purpose the nearest or any available building or 
room that may be found near the camp. Should, however, disinfection by sun- 
light and air be considered sufficient to render this property safe for futiire use, 
I recommend that the fact oe i)itblished in orders to the Department. 
Respectfiilly, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, Colonel, etc. 



[Extract froni letter of June 23, 1898.] 

physical disabilities op soldiers. 

Headquarters of the Army, 

Washington. D. C, Jnne23. 189S. 

The Chief Surgeon, Army Corps. 

Sir: It has been reported to the Chief Surgeon of the Army that, notwithstand- 
ing the medical examination prior to muster in, there are t^nlisted men in service 
in the Volunteer Army who should have been rejected at that examination as 
unfit for military service, and the Chief Siirgeon has in certain instances verified 
these reports. The attention of chief surgeons of corps is therefore directed to this 
subject as one of gi-eat importance. Systematic inquiry should be made in the 
varioxis regiments and other commands by the medical officers on duty ^^^th them 
with a ^dew to eliminating siich men. A board of medical officers should be 
appointed in each division to examine carefully and make recommendation in 
each of the cases submitted by indi^^dual or regimental medical officers. In every 
case where discharge from serAace is recommended it shotild be seen that the cer- 
tificates of disability embody a statement to the effect that the cause of the dis- 
qualification for the military service existed prior to the enlistment of the man. 
******* 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Circular letter.] 

June 25, 1898, 
water analysis. 

The Chief Surgeon, Army Corps. 

Sir: If in the establishment of camps of organization and instruction, or other 
comparatively permanent camps, it is deemed necessary to have a sanitary analy- 
sis made of the water suijply in the laboratory of the Surgeon-General's Office, 
Washington, D. C, chief surgeons \xi\\ forward samples by express to Deputy 
Surgeon-General Smart, Army Medical Museum, Wa.shington, D. C, and will 
send a communication to the Surgeon-General, giving an account of the source 
and sanitary surroiindings of the water. Not less than half a gallon should be 
sent as a sample. Care should he. taken that the containing vess(>l sliould be per- 
fectly clean. Any vessel which requires chemicals to clean it should not be used. 
It should be cleaned by filling several times and washing ^vith water from the 
source which is to be sampled. "Wickered glass demijohns, other^^ise unprotected 
or clear glass bottles boxed vni\\ packing, should be used in preference to stone- 
ware, jugs, or other vessels of opaque material. Care should be taken also that 
the corks iised be new and clean. A cork tainted with any oxidizable substance, 
particiilarly alcoholic or saccharine liquids, destroys the value of the sample for 
the inirposes of analysis. 



612 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
INSTRUCTION OF VOLUNTEER MEDICAL OFFICERS. 

Attention is invited to so miicli of circular from this office dated May 20, 1898, 
as relates to this snbject. Advantage should be taken of the presence of officers 
of the Regular Army who are serving in your corps as brigade surgeons, to form 
schools of instruction under their direction, the attendance of all surgeons of vol- 
unteers being required; reports of progress to be noted in weekly report to Chief 
Surgeon. 

CORPS CIRCULARS. 

A copy of general orders and circulars affecting the medical administration of 
the corps should be mailed to the Chief Surgeon, whose address, until further 
notice, will be Surgeon-General "s Office, Washington, D. C. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Circular letter.] 

Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, D. C, Jtily 5, 1S98. 
The Chief Surgeon, Army Corps. 

Sir: Paragraph 1. In the absence of special instructions from the military 
authorities yoii will be governed by the following: 

When troops are moved from one corps to another by regimental detachments, 
you will recommend that there be sent with each regiment its regimental per- 
sonnel and dispensary outfit, viz, medical and surgical chests, tentage, etc.. but 
not its wheel transportation. 

When the movement includes a brigade organization, recommendation should 
be made that a brigade section from the division field hospital and from the divi- 
sion ambulance company, complete as to personnel and material, should be sent 
with it. 

Paragraph 3. Should the headquarters of the corps with which yoii are serving 

be removed from the camp of instruction, you will recommend the detail from 

among the medical officers who remain at the camp of an experienced officer to 

act as chief surgeon until the arrival of another corps headquarters. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. Colonel, etc. 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, D. C, Jidy 7, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to submit, for the information of the general command- 
ing, a statement regarding the sanitary condition of the troops in the field, as 
obtained from the latest weekly reports which have been made to me by the chief 
surgeons of the several army corps. These reports are, in compliance with my 
directions, of telegraphic brevity and simply state the general facts ^vithout going 
into details, but they are sufficiently exact to enable me to present a statement 
that is reliable. 

As a general rule, the health of the troops in the three great camps of instriic- 
tion — at Camp Alger, Jacksonville, and Chickamauga— is good. The percentage of 



REPLY OF PUROEON-GENERAL. CAS 

sick to the effective strength is greater than at the date of my last report, June 9, 
being in the neighborhood of about 6 per cent, but is still very small for tro(jps 
under their present circumstances. The largest number of sick is from the 
resiilts of vaccination, the arms of the men being so sore as to prevent them tem- 
porarily from performing duty. 

Next in order come measles and mumps, of which there has been an epidemic. 
These are diseases which are almost inseparable from the aggregation of large 
bodies of recruits. Following these are disorders of the air passages and bowels, 
viz: Of the former, bronchitis and a few cases of pneumonia; of the latter, diar- 
rhea, with a few cases of dysentery. These are also inseparable from the 
changed conditions of life for the recrtiit, both as regards his oxposiu-e to the 
weather and the character and cookery of his food. Finally, and by far the most 
serious, is typhoid fever, of which in each cam^) there are a number of cases, which, 
in spite of preventive precautions, is steadily on the increase. As this is a water- 
borne disease, the greatest care has been exercised in the selecting of the sources 
of water suiijily and of the examination of the water by every means known to sci- 
ence, the result showing that the regular water supply at the several camps is as yet 
free from any dangerous element, and there is a consensus of opinion among the 
medical oflScers that the germs of the disease are obtained from infected water 
sources outside the camp limits, such as wells in the neighboring f ai'ms and infected 
water in adjoining towns which are constantly ^nsited by the troops. How long the 
camp sources can be kept free from infection is hard to say. Among the sanitary 
precaiTtions taken are the recommendation of boiled water as a constant beverage 
for the soldiers, the perfection of drainage system, and the disposal of the excreta, 
either by burying in pits or by cremation. If the former precaution coiild be car- 
ried out, we might feel assured that further cases of typhoid fever would not 
occur, but as a practical fact it is as yet impossible to secure compliance wT.tli this 
order by the soldiers. The number of diseases attributable to malaria is compar- 
atively small. 

Considering the fact that troops arS living iinder conditions entirely new to 
them, including insufficient tentage and clothing, indifferent cooking of food, 
and unacciistomed exercise, I think the general sanitary condition is good, but 
this should not be taken as an index of continuous improvement. On the con- 
trary, it is my opinion, in spite of tlie sanitary precautions, the percentage of 
sick will increase imtil the discipline of the volunteer troops has so far improved 
that we may be assured of compliance with the orders that are given f(.)r the 
preservation of their health. 

Regarding the health of the troops now operating in Cuba. I feel that there is 
reason for grave apprehensions. Added to the conditions I have mentioned above 
as existing in camps of instruction, there are in Cuba climatic and other condi- 
tions infinitely more harmful and difficult of control. The long-continued and 
excessive daily heat of the climate, with rapid lowering of temperatxire at night, 
the necessary exposui'e to rain in the absence of tentage, the scarcity and poor 
cookery of food, the effect of prolonged physical exertion on the battlefield induc- 
ing nervous exhaustion, are all factors which must be seriously considei'ed in 
forming an estimate of the health of the tioops if their continued residence in 
CMba is contemplated. To thisshoxild be added the almost certain appearance of 
yellow fever. 

While the medical officers are fully alive to the gravity of this situation and 
have prepared with the utmost care the sanitary measiires which are necessary to 
prevent disease and have ample medical supplies to control it should it appear, it 
must be borne in mind that the military situation renders the carrjing out of 
most of these precautions an impossibility. Without jjroper tentage and clothing 
tli(i ill effects of temperature and moisture can not be prevented; without the 



614 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

necessary means of cookeiy proper food can not be supplied. Under existing cir- 
cnmstances the sterilizing of water supply for the entire comniund Ijy boiling may 
be said to be an impossibility, and should yelloAV fever make its appearance it will 
be almost equally impossible to thoroughly prevent its spread. 

****** 

Exemption from sickness may be reasonably expected if the military situation 
permits of the transfer of the troops to a more salubrious point in the West India 
islands and their retention there until the end of the sickly season. 
Very respectfully, etc., 

Chas. R. CtREENLeaf, Colonel, etc. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters, July 15, 1S9S. 
Colonel Greenleaf: 

General Shaffer directs me to say that he is not willing to send a regular regi- 
ment from the front or any other troops at this time, as aifairs there are critical, 
and that there are now available in Siboney a regiment of volunteers and two 
companies of engineers who have been exposed to the epidemic, and he does not 
see the propriety of sending troops who have not been so exposed, even if one or 
two men have been sent from there with the fever. 

McClernand. 



memorandum for sanitary precautions in moving the army from its pres- 
ent LINE to the landing NEAR THE PIER OF THE JARAGUA IRON WORKS IN 
SANTIAGO BAY. 

The line should break camp and move about 3 miles to the cleanest camp site, 
remaining there two days. During the time any cases of yellow fever that develop 
should be immediately removed to the yellow-fever camp now established in the 
rear of the present line. 

The grcnmd in the immediate vicinity of the cases should be burned over. At 
the end of two days the camp shoiild be moved another 3 miles, the same precau- 
tion being taken with developing cases, and so on every second day until the objec- 
tive point is reached. While in camp the utmost vigilance should be irsed in secur- 
ing a thorough police; sinks located with care, to be covered each night with soil; 
the persona/1 habits of the men very carefully looked into by the officers, and close 
inspection made of the cooking. While in camp all bedclothing and other prop- 
erty of similar textiare should be freely exposed from early morning to sundown 
and to the sun and air, frequently turning the projierty so that both sides may be 
thoroughly disinfected by sunlight. Every opportunity for bathing shoirld be 
taken advantage of, and also for laundrying clothing. If heavy rains intervene 
there need be no movement of the camp unless fever cases develop; but if this 
shoxild happen they must be isolated as if there were no rain. Particular care 
must be taken to avoid camj)ing on the site of any previous camp, and fatigue 
parties should be sent in advance to burn over the site selected for a camp and 
also to destroy any buildings that may be on it. Under no circiimstances what- 
ever should any man be permitted to enter a building of any character, and all 
persons not connected directly with our army should l)e forbidden to enter its lines. 

It is to be remembered that one of the greatest dangers to the army on the 
march or in camp is in the intercourse between the soldiers and the inhabitants, 
either civilian or Cul)an, and Spanish soldiers of the coiintry. all of whom shoTild 
be considered as carriers of disease. 

Before arriving at the objective point competent and careful officers should \ye 



REPLY OF STTKfiEON-GENEllAL. 015 

detailed to select the final site of a camp, and fatigne parties sent forward to clear 
the ground as far as ijracticable of undergrowth and rnl)1)isli. The final camp 
should he occupied at least ten days, and during that time the same rigid precau- 
tions regarding the health of the troops should be taken. It is hoped that with 
these precautions there is every reasonable prospect that the disease may be 
stamped out in the army. 

Regarding the transportation of the troops to Porto Rico, it is very desirable 
that the time of residence on the transports shoiald be reduced to a minimum, and 
that overcrowding of the men should be avoided, and also whenever practicable 
each transport should be fumigated with burning sulphur before any troops are 
placed on board. 

If it is deemed undesirable to take Santiago Bay as the point of embarkation, 
the following is submitted: 

A careful examination of the immediate vicinity of the line now occupied by 
the troops shoiild be made, with a view of selecting a good camp and the trooi)s 
moved by regiments or brigades to the point. The camp site should be on elevated 
ground, sloping for good drainage, and an abundant water supply. Troops when 
moved should observe the same precautions that are given in the above memoranda. 
Here they should remain for at least five days after the appearance of the last case 
of yellow fever. 

The present yellow-fever hospital on the line should receive all cases that might 
occur from the new j)ositions. Instructions should be issued to destroy or disin- 
fect by burning all clothing worn by men who had yellow fever, and the Quarter- 
master's Department should be prepared to issue new clothing to them. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-GeneraU United States Army, 

Chief Siu^geon Army in the Field. 

Note. — These recommendations were approved and embodied in. a telegrjiphic 
order sent to General Shatter by General Miles the same day. C. R. G. 

[Indorsement.] 

Headquarters of the Army, On Board U. S. S. Yale, 

OffSiboney, Cuba. July 17, 1S9S. 

Respectfully referred to Major-General Shatter, commanding Fifth Army Corps. 

This sanitary recommendation has been drawn up by Colonel Greenleaf , t;hief 
surgeon of the army, and the commanding general directs that it be complied 
with as far as possible, the main puriiose being the immediate isolation of those 
affected by the disease of yellow fever from the commands; second, frequent 
change of camp, and in all cases the selection of fresh ground uncontaminated 
with the disease, and in every case, prior to occupation, the ground must be rig- 
idly inspected and if necessary burned over: third, the command must be kept 
away from all habitations, blockhouses, huts, and shanties of every description that 
have been occupied by Spanish or Cuban people; fourth, the establishment of 
guards and a rigid quarantine to keep all native or Spanish inhabitants out of any 
of the camps and away from any intercourse of whatever description with the 
troops. This rule must be thoroughly enforced. 

The commanding general fiirther directs that you make daily reports to General 
Gilmore, adjutant-general at army headquarters, of the condition of your com- 
mand, and any matters of importance, mentioning specifically the mimber of men 
affected with yellow fever and giving the organization to which they belong. 

Y<ni will also separate your camps as far as practicable, so that any organization 
that may be more seriously affected will not contaminate the whole command. 

By order of Major-General Miles: 

J, C. Gilmore, 
Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers. 



Gl(j INVESTIGATION OF CONDFCT OF WAR WITH RPATN. 

Telegram.] 

On Board Relief, 

Sihoney, Cuba, July I'J, ISOS. 
Colonel Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon: 

Message received. Will sail this evening for New York, in compliance with 
orders from the Surgeon-General. Will give to La Garde all delicacies and goods 
over and above the (luantity that will supply the sick on the ship from here to 
New York. Everything is going well on hoard, and am satisfied the ship is not 
infected. 

TORNEY, Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army, on Board U. S. S. Yale, 

Guanfanamo Bay, Cuba, July 19, 1S9S. 
Lieut. Col. B. F. Pope. 

Surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, Chief Surgeon Fifth Army Corps. 

Sir: The critical condition of affairs at Siboney existing at the time of my 
arrival rendered my presence indispensably necessary at that point. I had 
intended going to the front to inspect tlie medical department there, but the sud 
den departtire of General Miles for this place to organize the Porto Rican expedi- 
tion prevented me from doing so. 

Yoii have doubtless seen the sanitary plan referred to in my telegram of the IGth 
instant for stamping out the yellow fever which now infects the Army, and I 
hope by following its general lines, which were suggested by Guiteras and Parker, 
we may be able to check it. I have placed La Garde in full charge of affairs at 
Siboney and gave him implicit instructions; have also taken the Louisiana as a 
yellow-fever hospital ship, to supply which he has material that was unloaded 
from the Relief. 

I have wired the Surgeon-General recommending the oiitfitting of two addi- 
tional hospital transports with proper appliances for loading and unloading from 
a roadstead, and should the Fifth Corps remain in Cuba I can easily supply you 
from Porto Rico, to which point I shall carry anything that the Surgeon-General 
sends me. I find in looking over the supplies that it will be necessary to exercise 
economy in their iTse, particularly in the matter of medicines and surgical dress- 
ings. A large number of the surgical cases that have been transferred from the 
front to the field hospital at Siboney and on board the Relief were in a septic con- 
dition, and I learned from investigating the histories that most of them had been 
subject to redressings at the hands of medical officers through whom they passed. 

Now that there will be a considerable period of rest for the troops, I think it 
will be advisable for you to adopt strict regulations for the exercise of economy 
in the xise of medicines and surgical dressings, and to caution medical officers 
against an interference with a surgical case in transit from the first dressing station 
to the base hospital if it has been properly dressed. To secure this end the diag- 
nosis tag should be marked "dressing not to be disturbed." I think the intelli- 
gence of medical officers will prevent any negligence where the indications for a 
removal of a dressing may be imperative, but precautionary notice will prevent 
their interference unless the conditions justify it. 

I am informed by General Miles that supplies of all kinds, including mounts for 
the Hospital Corps, proper tentage, and other necessary materials, will soon be dis- 
charged at Santiago, and I hope you will use every effort to reorganize our depart- 
ment and get it into good working order so that it may be efficient if the corps is 
called on to follow us to Porto Rico. I have written to the Surgeon-General for 
an additional number of members of the Hospital Corps to be sent you, and for a 
floating disinfecting j)lant for use with the transports. 



REPLY OF RUrJGEON-fiENF.RAL. HI? 

Yon can reach me by cable at any time, and General Miles vriW be j^lad to 

approve any snggestions that yon may have to make f\)r increasing the efficiency 

of our department. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-Oeneral , United Stafex Army, 

Clue f Surgeon Armrj in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, on Board U. S. S. Yale, 

En route to Porto Rico, July 23, 189S. 
The Adjutant-Gexeral, 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following recommendation for preventing 
as far as possible the introduction of yellow fever into the command now aboiit 
to land on the Island of Porto Rico: 

The assignment of an officer of rank, to be placed in command of the base of 
supplies, with authority to indicate the sites to l)e occupied by the various supply 
depots and the hospital and to enforce the regulations governing the health of 
the attaches of these departments and the persons who may visit them on business. 

The assignment of a sanitary inspector, whose duty it shall be to examine all 
vessels and i^ersons arriving at our base from seaward ports and to prepare sani- 
tary regulations for the government of all transportation and persons arriving 
and departing from the station by land. This officer shoilld have authority to 
quarantine all siispicious persons and means of transportation, and to disinfect 
their belongings, either by fire or such other means as may be deemed necessary. 

All persons connected with the army are forbidden to enter any l)uilding what- 
ever on the island ■\\'ithout express authority from these headquarters, and all 
buildings in rural districts that may be suspected of harboring the germs of dis- 
ease should be destroyed by fire or otherwise thoroughly disinfected. 

As woven goods, particularly those of woolen fabric, are special carriers of dis- 
ease, the ptirchase or acceptance of articles of this kind from stores or inhalntants 
of the island is strictly forl)idden: any such property found ^^'ithiu the lines will 
be at once destroyed and the holder subjected to punishment. 

That commanders of regiments be instructed to prepare their camping grounds 
with great care and maintain a rigid police in them. Under no circiimstances shall 
they camp on ground that has previously been occupied either by troops or by 
collective bodies of the inhabitants. 

That medical officers be recpiired to make freqiient inspections of the commands 
t<j which they belong, and that any suspicious case of fever be immediately isolated 
and the fact of its occurrence reported to these headquarters. 

Canteens should be filled daily with tea or coffee and these beverages used 

habitually instead of water, unless that has l)een previou.sly boiled. 

Very respectfullv. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General . United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

Note.— These recommendations were approved, and w^ere embodied, as they 
were made, in a general order issued same day by General Miles. 

C. R. G. 



quarantine reCxUlations for the base of the military expedition to 

porto rico. 

1 . Every vessel shall be officially visited by the inspector before coinmunication 
is made with other vessels or with the .shore. 

2. A vessel having yellow fever or smallpox on board sliall not be allowed to 
comnmnicatc with the shore or with other vessels, but shall leave the island. 



618 INVESTKiATlON OF CONDUCT OF AVAR WITH SPAIN. 

Vessels coming from soiirces of infection shall be detained five days witlioiit 
communicating- either with the shore or with other vessels. If. at the expiration 
of this time, no cases of fever shall have developed, landing may be made under 
the following ijrecautions: 

All fomites shall be disinfected by one of the following methods: Immersion 
for one hour in one one-thousandth solution of bichloride; sulijhur fumigation in 
a chamber twenty-foiTr hours (4 pounds of sulphur being used for each 1.000 cubic 
feet of space) or boiling half an hour, with complete immersion. The following- 
need not be disinfected iinless directly exposed to infection: All new and dry 
material unpacked: all iron and steel imijlements: all goods in new and original 
packages not having been broken or packed in an infected locality. Goods 
other than textile, contained in textile material, such as coffee in sacks, bacon, 
spices, etc., kept dry and not broken in an infected locality, do not require dis- 
infection other than the container, which shall be treated as fomites, as above. 
Fruits, sound, unless exposed in an infected locality, need no disinfection. Live 
stock may be admitted. 

Such ships shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected by the free iise of one 
one-thoiisandth solution of bichloride and by fumigation with sulpluir before 
they may again receive men or supplies. 

Ships quarantined shall display the usual flag, and those in detention shall be 
visited by the inspector daily until the time of qiiarantine shall have expired. 

4. Vessels carrying jjassengers or having fomites from localities of infection, 
though they (the vessels) may hail from healthy ports, shall be subject to the 
same quarantine restrictions as vessels known to hail from infected localities. 

5. Due precaution shall be taken to prevent infection of the base of supplies 
through communication with infected localities along the line of march by team- 
sters and others. As far as i^ossible they should not bo allowed to remain at the 
base longer than necessary to load and unload, nor to come in such contact as to 
communicate infection. Stragglers, prisoners, and strangers sho-ald T>e immedi- 
ately sent away. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon -General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in llie Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Playa del Ponce, Porto Rico. August 1. 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to recommend that in the selection of camp sites all low 
and flat groiind that is likely to be flooded by heavy rains, which are liable to 
occiir at any time now, be avoided, and sites selected \Wth a view to the surface 
drainage. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army. (Office of the Surgeon-General, 

Ponce. Porto Bico. August f>. 1S:)S. 
Lieut. Col. R. Huidekoper. 

Surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, Chief Surgeon First Army CorjJS. 
Sir: Referring to the report of the sanitary inspector on your present camp, I 
have the honor to invite your particular attention to the occupancy of buildings 
before thorough disinfection. 



REPLY OF. SURGEON-GENERAL. . 619 

Yon are of coiivse aware of the possible existence of fomites of yellow fever in 
any building on this island, and the readiness with which nonimmnnes exposed 
at this season of the year become infected. It was to prevent exposure that the 
sanitary order from these headquarters was issued, and I nuast caution you as 
to its observance in your sanitary recommendations to the corps commander. I 
have been compelled to allow the sick to be exposed to the sun and rain, with 
only the shelter of a poncho, until a building could be disintected, rather than to 
exijose them to possible infection by disregarding this precaution. It was a 
neglect of these precautions in General Shatter's army, by occupancy, as quarters, 
ofifices,etc., of buildings which were infected, which brought upon it the existing 
epidemic. 

You are authorized to buy disinfectants at the nearest town if you do not have 
them among your regular supplies. It is proper to inform you that the physicians 
of Ponce report the prevalence of smallpox among the people along the south 
shore of the island. 

You ^\^11 please report to me by telegraph each day the number of sick in your 
command, and at your convenience come to these headquarters conference 

regarding the business of this department in the campaign. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army. Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 6'. ISM. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that there is a marked increase in the sick report 
of the troops, particularly in those composing General Henry's division. The 
cause of the sickness is in the majority of instances typhoid fever, and I am of 
the opinion, considering the character of the country, the climate, and the raw 
condition of the men, that this matter will become an important factor in consid- 
ering the future of this campaign. I recommend that, unless a military necessity 
prevents, the army be halted at the mo;,t convenient place in the mountains for 
recuperation of the troops and to afford an opportunity to treat the diseases. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel. Assi.'itant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters op the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce. Porto Eico, August 7, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of tJte Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that Major Woodbury, sanitary inspector, reports 
that the Spanish military barracks in Ponce has been thoroughly cleaned, disin- 
fected, and fumigated, and is now in a safe condition for occupancy by our troops. 

Very respectfully, ^ ^ ^ 

•^ ^ Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



620 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Playa del Ponce, Porto Bicu, August 7, 1S9S. 
The Surgeon-General United States Army. 

Sir: 1 have the hdiior to transmit herewith copies of correspondence regarding 
the precautions tliat have been taken to preserve the health of this command. 
The results of Major Woodbury's (sanitary inspector) work have so far been 
excellent. The streets of the town are comparatively clean and no building has 
been occupied until it has been properly cleaned, disinfected, and, when necessary, 
fumigated. He is now putting m force at Arroyo the same regulations estab- 
lished at Ponce. 

Smallpox is reported to be epidemic in a little town through which the troops 
must pass to-day. There is very little vaccine virus in the town, biit I have 
ordered Major Woodbury to collect it and furnish it to thj local doctors here for 
use . under his direction , among tlie population. 

The same military hospital has been thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and the 
one ward tliat had l)een occupied by Spanish prisoners fumigated with sulphur. 
The other ward had not been occiixned, and the whole hospital is now occupied 
by our troops as a transfer hospital. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon^Oeneral, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon", 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 10, 189S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of tlie Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that a considerable number of patients in the 
military transfer hosiiital at Ponce are now suflBciently recovered to return to 
duty, and others will be recovering from day to day. Owing to the over- 
crowded condition of the hospital with cases of great severity and the lack of 
clerical assistance it will be impossible to comply with the regulations regarding 
the preparaticjii of lists, etc., of men, or for the surgeon in charge to take sepa- 
rate measures toward finding the locations of the regiments to which these men 
belong. 

I therefoi'e recommend that some central command be selected to which these 
men may be sent without formality from the hospital, and from which they may 
be iiltimately returned to their respective regiments. 

An early reply to this recommendation is requested, since every bed in the 
hospital is needed for incoming cases, of which there are a large number. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

C liief Stirgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, 
Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 10, 1898. 
Col. Charles R. Greenleaf, 

Assistant Surgeon-General, Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 
Sir: Referring to your letter of this date, requesting that a central command be 
designated to which men who have recovered from sickness may be sent without 



REPLY OF SUliGEON-CJEISKKAL. G21 

formality, the inajbr-general commanding rllrects that all such c-ases be sent to 
Lieut. Col. C. C. Hood. Nineteenth Infantry, who has been directed to receive 
them and retiirn them to their proper commands. Your letter has been refeiTed 
to Lieutenant-Colonel Hood. 
Very respectfully, 

J. C. GiLMORE, 

Bngadiei'-Gcncral, United States VolanieerH. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Surgeon-General, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August JO, 189S. 
Lieut. Col. Nicholas Senn. 

Surgeon , U. S. Volunteers, Chief of the Operating Staff. 
Sir: You will proceed to the town of Ponce, visit the nailitary and other hospi- 
tals in that town, and siich of the camps in its vicinity as you may deem necessary, 
for the puri)ose of investigating and. if possible, determining the caiise of typhoid 
and other fevers now prevailing in this army, and report the results of your inves- 
tigation in writing to me. Should you find it necessary to have the services of an 
interpreter or other civilian to aid in your work, you are hereby authorized to 
employ him, sending the bill to this office for payment. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 
Surgeon-General, United States Army, Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Cablegram.] 

Port Ponce. Porto Rico. August ii. 1S9S. 
Sternberg, Washington: 

After conference with Senn, Torney, and Daly, report no suitable Imilding here. 
Pa"vilion can be built, but objectional)le in this climate; tent hosjntals preferable. 
Type of disease comparatively mild. Sti'ongly advise, on climatic and other 
grounds, speedy return of sick and convalescents to United States on properly 
equipped transports or regular hospital ships. This essential to sick and for 
morale of troops. Fifty qualified doctors, 25 trained hospital stewards, and 150 
experienced trained male nurses required. Send $"2,000 to Asst. Surg. F. McG. 
Hartsock. Senn's investigation shows 250 cases tjqihoid. all infected in camps in 
United States, mostly from Chickamauga. Previous cases Camp Alger. 

Greenleaf. Chief Surgeon. 



Headquarters of the Army. Office of the Chief Surgeon. 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico. August 11. 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General. 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to .state that in consequence of the large number of strag- 
glers who are coming in and reporting at the military tr;insfer hospital. I have to 
request that an infantry guard be detailed for duty at that ])lace. 
Very resjiectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General . United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the field. 



622 liSVEfe'riGAllUN of conduct of WAK WITJI SPAIN. 

MEMOPwVNDUM OF CONFERENCE ON HOSPITAL SHIP RELIEF REC4ARDING THE CARE 

OF THE SICK OF THE ARMY IN PORTO RICO. 
To STERNBERG: 

No suitable btiilding here. Pavilions can be built, but are objectionable in this 
climate. Tent hospitals preferable. 

Types of disease conii)aratively mild. We strongly advise, on climatic and other 
grounds, speedy retiirn of the sick and convalescents to the United States on prop- 
erly equipped transports or regular hospital ships. This we believe to be essentia 1 , 
not only to the sick but to the morale of the troops. 

Fifty well-qualified doctors, 35 well-trained hospital stewards, 150 experienced 
trained male nurses required. 

Send $3,000 to Asst. Surg. F. McG. Hartsock, U. S. A. 

Semi's investigation shows 350 cases typhoid, all infected in camps in United 
States. Most of them from Chickamauga. 
Previous shipments were from Camp Alger. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Ar7ny in the Field. 
Geo. H. Torney, 
Major and Surgeon, United States Army. 
N. Senn. 
Chief Surgeon, Colonel, United States Volunteers. 
W. H. Daly. 
Major and Chief Surgeon, United States Volunteers. 



memorandum of conference on hospital ship relief regarding care of 

the sick of the army in PORTO RICO. 

To General Miles: 

Hospital of lumber can be built, but one of tents is preferable. We, however, 
urgently recommend the speedy return of the sick to the United States on prop- 
erly equipped transi^orts or hospital ships. Fifty doctors and 150 trained male 
nurses required at once. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 
Geo. H. Torney, 
Major and Surgeon, United States Army. 
N. Senn, 
Colonel and Chief Surgeon, United States Volunteei's. 
W. H. Daly, 
Major and Chief Surgeon, United States Volunteers. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army. Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 12, 1S98. 
Woodbury, Coamo, Porto Rico: 

Much gratified with your report. Your message aboiit men of light battery 
has been attended to. If Aibonita is taken, put the big building there in sanitary 
order quick. I want it for a hospital. Keep me informed regarding sanitary 

affairs. 

Chas. R,. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



REl'LY OF SUKUIOON-GENEK'AL. ()23 

ORDER. 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 13, ISOS. 
Dr. G. G. Groff , of Philadelphia, having tendered his services to the Medical 
Department. United States Army, is hereby appointed deputy sanitary inspector 
at Ponce and vicinity. 

Dr. Groff will take charge of and distribute, under direction of the CJiief Sur- 
geon of the Army, the medical supplies and comforts landed from Mr. Van 
Rensselaer's yacht May by the relief commission of Philadelphia, Pa., for the 
use of the sick and wounded in the army and navy. 
By command of Major-General Miles. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office op the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 13, 1S9S. 
The Surgeon-General United States Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the health condition of this army is still 
a matter of grave consideration. In addition to the fever cases that have been 
sent north on the Obdam and the Lami)asa.s some 300 cases have developed, mostly 
typhoids, and new ones are coming in from the troops in the immediate vicinity 
of Ponce at the rate of about 10 a day. I have heard nothing from the command 
consisting of Generals Wilson's, Henry's, and Schwan's brigades since they left 
Ponce, but judging from their previous condition and the condition of those left 
behind. I feel satisfied that so soon as the ambulances can be returned a large 
number of sick will come wnth them. General Brooke's troops are so separated 
fi-om me that I can not get any reports, but when the troops arrived here the Gen- 
eral reported about 125 cases of sickness. 2.5 of which he understood to be tji^hoid 
fever. I therefore sent the Relief to his landing point (Arroyo) to take charge of 
those cases, and expect her to return some time during the day. 

As reported to you in my letter of the 7th, I have taken the Spanish military 
hospital as the central hospital for our own troops. It AAnll accommodate about 
200 patients, and by crowding about 100 more might be under shelter. The few 
tents, hospital and others, that I could get hold of have been pitched on the ground 
adjacent to the hospital and will probably accommodate 50 more. Before the 
troops left I ordered the very sick, which was represented to me as numbering 60. 
sent to the transfer hospital, and had made provision for them, but in the care- 
less methods, which I regret to say are too common among the volunteer officers, 
my orders were disregarded, and diiring the night 138 additional men, s(nue slightly 
sick, some venereal ca.ses, and some who proved to be malingerers, wer(> dumped 
on the hospital. T'ne result was considerable confusion, due to the utter inal)ility 
of my small force to properly care for this unexpected influx of stragglers. For- 
tunately the hospital ship Relief arrived the next morning and I was able to trans- 
fer about 125 of the worst cases to her. I at once organized a convalescent camp 
adjacent to the camp of the Nineteenth United States Infantry, which has been 
made the provost guard of the town, and weeded out the stragglers, convales- 
cents, and malingerers, numbering about 125 men, and had them marched under 
guard to this camp. Tlie immediate congestion was thus relieved, and I am happy 
to report that the hospital is now in as good condition as is possible under the cir- 
cumstances. 

I detached Dr. H. S. Greenleaf from tlie Relief for temporary service at the 
hospital, and have found among the private soldiers one or two graduated 
physicians, who I have also placed on duty. 



624 IXVKSTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF AVAK WITH SPAIN. 

A voluiiteor detail of nurses from the Nineteenth Infantry was made at my 
re(iiiest and has done excellent service. I placed Major Daly in charge, and under 
his energetic and efficient management order was soon evolved from chaos. I 
can not too highly recommend him for the service he has thus rendered. 

The lack of medical officers and members of the Hospital Corps is dne to the 
fact that the troops on leaving the United States failed apparently to bring with 
them their i^roper organization, and sickness and other casualties still further 
reduced this small number, until there was only remaining a suiiply barely suffi- 
cient for field service with the troops when they left. 

I have already telegraphed you of the necessity for additional doctors, stewards, 
and tiained male nurses. 

Geneial Miles referred to me a request from the Secretary of War regarding 
the reemployment of the female nurses who were on Ijoard the Lampasas. I 
replied that I could make them useful in this military hospital if they should come. 

Your telegram regarding the establishment of a general hospital here has been 
briefly answered. I can only add in detail that I called a consultation on board 
the Relief with Drs. Senn, Daly, and Torney, to which Dr. Terry was unofficially 
invited. We discussed the situation thoroughly, and were unanimous in our 
opinion that the sick should be sent home as speedily as possible. Many factors 
led us to this conclusion: First, the enervating effect of the climate upon the 
troops in general, rendering them easy victims to any disease; second, the extreme 
debility that follows convalescence from fevers; third, as a consequence of this 
debility the homesickness which is almost insupportable, and fourth, the evil 
effect upon the well troops by the appearance among them of their delnlitated 
comrades. We were unanimous in the opinion that no one should be sent to the 
U nited States except in a properly equipped transport or upon a regular hospital 
ship, since it would be far better to have the men subject to the conditions here 
than to undergo the suffering incident to a trip on a hastily and therefore ill- 
equipped transport. I have therefore decided to recommend the use of a tent 
hospital, auxiliary to the military hospital here, and possibly another at the foot 
of the mountains, where fever cases could be kept and properly treated until the 
arrival of transport ships. 

As I was in some doubt regarding the local influences in keeping up the sick- 
ness among our men, I ordered Dr. Senn to make a careful investigation of the 
subject, and inclose a synopsis of his report, which has been laid before the major- 
general commanding. Every possible precaution is being taken to prevent the 
introduction of new diseases and to correct the effects of those existing among us. 
Drs. Senn and Daly have been indefatigable in their work, as has also Dr. Wood- 
bury, the sanitary in.spector. 

A party of gentlemen arrived yesterday in Mr. Van Rensselaer's yacht, bearing 
a letter of introduction from you. I found that one of them. Dr. Groff, was will- 
ing to remain with us. and as he has been previously connected with the sanitary 
service in the United States. I made him deputy sanitary inspector of the army at 
Ponce and placed him in charge of the medical supplies which were brouglit 
down by the party. These supplies I will store in the building now used as head- 
quarters offices, and have jjlaced their issue into his hands. 

I think it advisable to keep the Relief here a few days longer than originally 
intended, since there has been fighting in the last few days and twenty-odd wounded 
are reported as a result. These I wish to place on board the Relief, and for that 
reason will, if necessary, unload some of the fever cases and place them back in 
the shore hospital. 

I have unloaded all the supplies from the hospital ship Relief and stt)red them 
in the military barracks in the city. As I had no medical officer to take charge of 
them, I have taken Dr. Hartsock from the Relief, have appointed him as medical 
supply officer, and will keep him until some officer arrives to relieve him. In the 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 625 

absence of supplies I have been compelled to make consideraljle purchases, which 
were absolutely necessary for care of the sick. I feel sure that my course will 
meet your approval and that the necessary funds will be forthcoming to meet the 
obligations I have incurred upon my own responsibility. 

We are now fairly organized, although sadly lacking in doctors and nurses; but 
these I am sure you will furnish as rapidly as possible. In the meantime I will 
do my best to keep your department in an efficient condition. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 
Colonel. Assistant Surgeon-General. United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters First Brigade, Provisional Division. 

Adjuntas, Porto Rico. August 14, ISOS. 
Colonel Greenleaf, 

Cliief Surgeon, Ponce, Porto Rico: 
On thorough investigation no healthful camping ground can be found here. 
Heavy daily rains. Troops constantly wet. Malarial coiintry. 

George W. Crile. 

Major, Surgeon. 



Camp near Adjuntas, August ir>, ISOS. 
Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

Ponce. Porto Rico: 

* -X- ***** 

It is absolutely necessary for the health of this command at Ad.iuntas to move 
from this vicinity. No good camping ground can be found here. Answer. 

Geo. W. Crile. 
Acting Chief Surgeon. 



Transfer Hospital, 
Ponce. Porto Rico. August lf>. IS'JS. 
The Chief Surgeon Armies in the Field. 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico. 
Sir: In compliance with instructions from your office I have the honor to 
}-eport that I have examined the grcmnd in the vicinity of this hospital with a 
view of erecting a number of hospital tents, with the necessary kitchens, sinks, 
etc., for the purpose of giving additional facilities for tlie treatment of the .sick, 
and woukl state that there is room for about 100 tents. Tlie ground, wliich I am 
informed by Acting Assistant Surgeon Morette belongs to Abeloido (^tero and 
Miguel Mattii. has a considerable slope, which would necessitate the projjping up 
of the tent floors to make them level. This, however, would be an advantage, as 
it would secure free ventilation tmderneath the tent, wliich is especially desirable 
in a tropical climate.- A dry ravine divides the localities selected, which would 
recpiire to be bridged by a trestle about 40 feet in length. I have employed and 
set to work a number of men and carts cdearing the site and i)olicing the ])lace 
generally, and it will probably be in a condition to begin pitching the tents within 
three days. 

Very respectfully, H. P. Birmingham. 

78;',;i— VOL. 1—40 Major and Surgeon. 



626 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH RPAIN. 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 16, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General. 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to state that I inspected to-day the prison in the tipper 
part of Ponce on the street leading to the transfer hospital, and find it in a very 
unsanitary condition. The privy is exceedingly offensive, and should be cleaned 
and thoronghly disinfected without delay. The ventilation of the room in which 
these men are confined shonld also be attended to. The best way to do this will 
be by making an opening in the ridge. There .were several sick prisoners, to 
whom I directed the services of a physician. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf. 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



[Indorsemoiit on report of Surgeon llirminghaiu, recommending site for hospital.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 16. 1S9S. 

Respectfully referred to army headquarters. 

Under instructions from headquarters I have examined the country in the 
vicinity of Ponce for the location of a tent hospital for the treatment of the sick of 
this army, and find as the most available place the ground in the immediate 
vicinity of the military hospital, which we now occupy, and where the con- 
venience and expense of administration will be reduced to a minimum. The high 
ground and excellent drainage make this a peculiarly desirable location for the 
hospital, and I request authority to occupy it. 

Flooring for tents and for connecting walks will be required, and I ask that the 
quartermaster's department be directed to furnish it; also that the engineering- 
department be directed to construct the bridge across the dry ravine within 
referred to. I have conferred with Colonel Black upon this subject, and he 
informs me that it can be easily done. The Surgeon-General informs me that 
the tents for this hospital left New York two days ago and I desire to be ready to 

pitch them immediately upon their arrival. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



August 17, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army, Port Ponce, Porto Rico. 
Sir: I have the honor to recommend that the old Spanish fort at this place be 
used for the storage of the siege material and quarters of a small guard for the 

same during the present emergency. 

S. A. Day, 

Major. Fifth Artillery, Commanding Siege Train. 

[Second indorsement.] 

Office of the Chief Surgeon, 
Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 17, 189S. 
Respectfiilly returned to headquarters of the army. I have inspected these 
quarters, and if they are thoroughly policed and disinfected with lime they may 
be used with safety for the purpose within indicated. 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel. Assistant Snrgeou-General. United States Ar'my. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GEXERAL. 627 

[Telegram.] 

CoAMO, Porto Rico, August 18, 1S9S. 
Chief Surgeon of the Army, Ponce: 

I have excellent location for tent hospital of 250 beds. Excellent water supply. 
High dry ground. If General Miles augments forces at Coanio, or if we are to 
stay here two weeks more, it will be extremely necessary to establish large tent 
hospital as soon as possible. I will report in person. Typhoid is disappearing. 
Malaria, diarrhea, principal disorders. Am disinfecting and arranging Caserne 
for provost guard. 

Woodbury, Sanitarn Inspector. 



Chief Surgeon, at Ponce: 



[Telegram.] 

Headquarters near Ponce, August is, isos. 



Will inspect site for hospital baths, and report this location to-night. 

Woodbury, Sanitary Inspector. 



Colonel Greexleaf: 



[Telegram.] 

GuAYAMA, Porto Rico. August IS, 1S08. 



My hospital location excellent. Will have good system at once. Doing all that 
can be done. Annoying criticism from line officers and laymen. Am short some 
medicines. Rush. 

S. HuiDEKOPER, Lieutenant-Colonel. 



[Third iudorseraent.] 

Headquarters of the Army. Office of the Chief Surgeon. 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico. August 10. ISOS. 
Respectfully returned to army headquarters. If suitable buildings can be 
found they should be thoroughly pc^liced. disinfected, and fumigated by means of 
sulphur, or the walls, floors, and ceilings washed with a sohition of bichloride of 
mercury, and the surroimding grounds thoroughly policed. With these precau- 
tions I think they could be safely occupied as (juarters for the troops. 

Chas. R. Greexleaf. 



[Telegram.] 

Abjuxtas, Porto Rico. August JO. iSOS. 
Major Crile, Utuado. Porto Rico: 

Aml)ulance has arrived from Ponce with medicines. Instruct me as to for- 
warding. Hospital should be removed from hill to-morrow. Camp in horrible 
state from constant rain. Could select building in town for hospital if so 
directed 

Gross, Assistant Surgeon. 



628 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Rico, August 21, 189S. 
Col. Chas. R. Greenleaf, U. S. A., 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

Sm: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with Special Field Order No. 
14, from General Miles through yon, dated August 15, 1898, I proceeded with two 
ambulances, an orderly, and Thomas Oxhohn, as interpreter and giiide, from this 
point to Mayaguez, Porto Rico. The ambulances were loaded with hospital 
stores, supplies, and delicacies, and found the headquarters of General Schwan to 
be at Mayaguez. The supplies carried by me were as appear on appended list 
herewith. Nearly all of these I turned over to Major Egan, after reporting in 
person to General Schwan. The other supplies I gave out along the road to 
siich sick and other soldiers as I in my judgment thought needed them. I also 
turned over 500 vaccine points to Major Egan, as per your instriictions. 

I found the town of Mayaguez in the most unsanitary condition, especially the 
Spanish hospital occupied by our sick. There is in one room in that hospital five 
cases of measles, which should at once be isolated. The hospital is situated at the 
southeast end of the town on low, filthy ground, surrounded by wretched hovels 
and a squalid population of the lowest order, who live in filthy small huts, into 
which are crowded their large families, in some instances ten or twelve people 
living in a striicture not more than 12 feet square, where the ancestors of these 
families apparently have been born and died for generations. The vacant space 
about the hospital is filthy beyond description, strewn with the refuse from the 
wretched people who live all around the hospital, the houses being densely 
crowded, especially on the northeast and south sides. The refuse in the vacant 
ground about the hospital, wet with the recent rains, was reeking with ofl'ensive 
effluvia, which pervaded the entire neighborhood and especially the hospital 
building itself. The latter is a badly located building on this low ground, and its 
plumbing old and out of rejjair, and the hospital crowded with the sick both of 
the Spanish and United States armies, the cases consisting chiefly of tjq:)hoid and 
malarial fevers. I inspected the entire town and found only one of the streets, 
namely, the main street, at all clean, coiirtyards and back streets containing the 
acciTmulated filth of many years. 

The situation at Mayaguez is bad, the groimd being low upon the sea. A 
stream running through the north of the town empties into it and receives the 
surface drainage. The land to the north and northwest of the town is higher, and 
a place can be had half a mile o\it on the road north leading to Los Marias as 
eligible as possible for this region to establish a tent hospital, which I would 
eainestly recommend; but as a first and immediate measiire I would recommend 
a thorough policing and fumigating of the present hospital building and the mis- 
eral)le hcnises surrounding the place; also, an embarkation north of all the sick at 
the eaiiiest possible time. 

Very respectfully, W. H. Daly, 

Major, Chief Surgeon United States Volunteers. 

N. B.— I have omitted to say that I found the troops of General Schwan's com- 
mand nuich worn by the very rapid forced marches and field movements in battles 
in which they had been engaged within the past few days. 



MEMORx^NDUM FOR CHIEF SURGEON. 



The scheme of hospital organization is to establish a tent hospital of at least o(X) 
beds at the transfer hospital in Ponce. This work has already been authorized. 
Then a tent hospital at or near Coamo, of at least 100 beds, and in other divisions, 
if necessary. For this purpose 200 hospital tents are now being unloaded from 



tlEPLY OF' SltRGEON-GENEKAL. ()29 

the steamship Concho, and there has Ijeen authority given to the quartermaster 
to furnish hmiber for flooring, etc. 

When a hosintal ship is reported as arriving she should be loaded from the 
transfer hospital to within 100 beds of her cai)aeity. then sent to Arroyo for the 
sick from General Brooke's command, and then to Mayaguez for the sick from 
General Schwan's. All the available ambTilance trains should then be put in serv- 
ice to unload the hospitals from the front. Belonging to headquarters and camped 
near the Nineteenth Infantry camp there is a train of 13 ambulances, under 
charge of Mr. Walton, the wagon master. These should be used exclusively for 
unloading the sick from the transfer hospital. 

A hospital fund of about $300 is in possession of the surgeon in charge of the 
transfer hospital, to be expended by him. Another fund of $3,78:] is in the hands 
of Dr. Hartsock, the supply officer, to be expended by him. From these funds the 
nurses in the various hospitals are to be paid and also any other exjicnses con- 
nected with the medical department. Conti'act doctors are paid by the pay 
department. 

A full siipply of blank forms to furnish a corps has been ordered from the Sur- 
geon-General and should be here in a few days. So soon as they arrive they 
should be unpacked and distributed to the various medic;il officers, and the regu- 
lar reports required by the medical department which have heretofore not been 
made shoiild be insisted upon. 

The departiire of the hospital ships loaded should be cabled at once to the Sur- 
geon-General, using only his name '-Sternberg, Washington." giving as few 
words as possible in the message, and signing your own name without rank. A 
box of fresh vaccine virus is left in the office, also package of medicine. 

There are two or three private soldiers, particularly in General Wilson's com- 
mand, said to be graduated physicians. They should be examined by a board of 
medical officers, and if Competent should be discharged from the service and 
employed under contract at $150 per month. Blanks for this purpose are in the 
desk; also blanks for the employment of contract nurses, the maximum price paid 
being fixed at $80 per month. 

There is also a lot of mail in the office which is intended for people on the Relief 
and for Red Cross nurses. 

No sick are to be admitted to hospital except by order from the chief surgeon. 

Major Crile reports General Henry's command as in an exceedingly unhealthy 
position. There is a constant rain. The clothing ot the men is never dry. There 
is a large sick report, principally of intestinal disorders, the tendency being to a 
decided increase. Major Crile has grave apprehensions regarding the future of 
the command. The road from this command over the mountains he reports as 
impassable to anything but pack trains, and exceedingly difficult even for those. 
A number have already been lost in attempting to make the journey. Two 
ambiilances have been lost on this trail. One went over the cliff and the other 
sank so deeply in the mud that it had to be abandoned. 

I recommend that these troops be removed from their position at the earliest 
possible moment permissible wath the military situation, or I am satisfied that 
disastrous results will follow in the shape of severe and continued sickness. 

This is the command at Abjuntas and Utuado. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon. 

Port Ponce. Porto Rico, August 24, ISfiS. 
Chief Surgeon, 

General Wilson's Command. 
Sir: In compliance with instructions from tlie honorable Secretary of War 
erect tent hospitals for the accommodation of the sick of this command, I hiv. . 



630 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

request that you will select a suitable site upon wliich sufficient tent accommoda- 
tion may be erected for 200 patients. The qiiartermaster's department should be 
called upon for the necessary flooring and planking and the engineering depart- 
ment for the necessary road making and contour lines on which the tents shoiild 
be pitched. You will at once make due requisition on the medical officer for the 
bedding, furniture, and other outfitting necessary for the hospital, and report to 
the chief surgeon when you are ready to receive patients. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleap. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Po)'t Ponce, Porto Rico, August :i4, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headqtuirtcrs of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to invite attention to the matter of the interment of the 
remains of soldiers deceased in the army. 

As I understand it, they are now bxiried, under the direction of the quartermas- 
ter's department, in the cemetery at Ponce, not altogether a suitable place for 
that purpose. 

I recommend that a proper location be determined upon and a sufficient amount 
of groimd secured w^hich may be used as a national cemetery, into which ulti- 
mately the bodies of all soldiers deceased on this island shall be removed. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Porto Pico, August 27, 1S9S. 
Dr. George G, Groff, 

Deputy Sanitary Inspector of the Army. 
Sir: You will please, diiring your visit to General Brooke's command, report 
to the general and request his permission to make a sanitary inspection imder the 
direction of his chief surgeon of the camps and hospitals of the command. This 
for the purpose of completing the historical record of sanitary work performed 
with the army of occupation in Porto Rico. It should be understood that this 
work can only be done as a special favor from General Brooke, who, I am sure, 
in consideration of the object in view, will further our efforts in this direction, as 
will also Colonel Huidekoper, his chief surgeon. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

Po7H Ponce, Porto Rico, August 27, 1898. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to invite attention to the insiifficient water supply at the 
general hospital at Ponce. Before the erection of the hospital tents this supply 
was barely sufficient for ordinary needs, and it is now quite insufficient. I have 
to request that the quartermaster's department be directed to look into the matter 
and secure a sufficient supply. 

Very respectfully, Chas. R. Greenleaf, 



REPLY OF SURGEON-(4ENERAL 631 

GuAYAMA, Porto Rico, Augustus, 1S9S, 

Col. C. R. Greenleaf, Ponce. 

******* 

Sick in hospital are in very much better shape than they were twenty-f oxir hours 
ago. My impression is that with i'air weather conditions A\ill improve markedly 
in a general way. There are possibly 150 to 200 men who ought to go north as 
soon as they can be sent. The cases of typhoid fever are not all well defined. 
Part of them may be determined to be malarial fever. These men are incapaci- 
tated for duty, and should be sent home. All those able to travel were sent to 
Ponce with the Fourth Pennsylvania. So soon as the hospital ship reaches our 
waters it should be sent to Arroyo, and these men who could go home loaded on 
it. The reason for this is, our stay here is possibly short. Will you give it your 
attention and let me hear from you without delay? Matters move very rapidly 
in these days. Further, do not forget our conversation about care of the men who 
are to be here for any length of time, in so far as shelter is concerned. So much 
of the soil here is under cultivation that I am more convinced than when I saw 
you that buildings— substantial buildings, too— not less than two stories high 
should be erected at such points as troops may be required to be stationed. I am 
more than ever convinced that we will need a great many troops here for some 
time to come considering the feeling existing between those so-called Porto 
Ricans and those called Spaniards. Do not forget this when you get to the 
United States. 

John R. Brooke, 
Major-General, Commanding. 



[Telegram.] 

Colonel Greenleaf, Ponce, Porto Rico: 



Guayama, Porto Rico. 



Establishing building hospital for most serious, and crematories for all dejecta 

and refuse. Will wi'ite; l)ut supervision of medical and compliance with military 

details is about all I can do. 

******* 

R. HUIDEKOPEB. 



632 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 13-DIVISION AND REGIMENTAL 

HOSPITALS. 

Headquarters of the Army. 

Washington, D. C, May 30, 1S9S. 
The Chief Surgeon, Corps. 

(Throngli military channels.) 

Sir: I aui directed by the Major-General Commanding the Army to inclose here- 
with a plan of sanitary organization for the troops in the field. It represents 
numerically the distribution of the personnel of the Medical Department and the 
relative iiroportion of the necessary wlieel transportation and tentage to the com- 
batant force. It is a general standard, from which departure may be made (in 
your discretion) to meet the exigencies of the camp or battlefield, in which case 
the fact and reasons therefor should be duly reported to the chief surgeon. 

Your attention is invited to Circular No. 1 from the Surgeon-General, dated 
April 25, 1898 (inclosed), on the subject of army sanitation. An observance of 
its requirements is practically enjoined. 

Another circular will soon be issued from the same source, detailing specifically 
the duties of the field administrative officers in the Medical Department. 

Attention is also invited to the preparation and transmission of rejiorts and 
records, the accuracy of which should be assured. For this purpose an ample 
supply of blank forms should be procured, and as soon as practicable a school for 
officers of the Medical Department organized, where instruction in the use of 
these forms and in the various military duties incident to the sanitary service 
may be given. 

Frequent inspections of the hospitals, dispensaries, and camps should be made 
by yoii in person, including a carefiil scrutiny of tlie methods and work of the 
medical officers within your jurisdiction. No si^ecific orders are issued in this con- 
nection , as the chief surgeon desires to leave in yoiir hands the responsiliility for 
the proper performance of your duties. 

Regarding the relation of unofficial civilian aid to the Medical Department, 
attention is invited to General Order No. 47, series 18fl8 (inclosed), and yoii are 
requested to inform the division chief surgeon that no permits for neutralizing 
members of aid societies will be issued until the Medical Department makes a 
formal call for their serAnce. 

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Charles R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel. Assii^tant Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 

The above letter sent to the chief surgeon of each army coi-ps. 



REPLY OP .SURGEON-GENERAL. 



633 



Sanitary stihdivisions of Volunteer Army Corps. ^ (About :?.'),000 combatant 
strength based upon present organization.) 

[Twenty-four regimeuts of infantry, three light batteries, one regiment of cavalry. Estimated.] 





1 

o 

'i 


<0 

i 

00 

1 

O 
W 


1 
ft . 

.a u 


05 

a 

Ph 


Total for corps. 




o 


4) 
O 

w 




> 




1 
1 

2 


1 

3 

i; 


1 

1 
2 


24 
2 


24 

1 


3 


24 


Each artillery hattalion (3 light 

batteries) 

Each regiment of cavalry 


1 
2 












24 


25 


3 


27 














AdmiiiistratioE : 


2 
1 


1 

1 




2 

1 
1 


2 


1 




» 




3 1 3 


3 


Niuu brigades 


1 


9 






' 






4 

28 
24 












14 

24 

24 


12 
12 


14 


Three division anibulancc t(»nii a 
nies and one corps reserve coni- 


6 
6 


7 
6 


3 
3 


104 
90 


416 


Three division field hosjiitals (of 
200 beds each) and one corps ro- 


360 










Totil 










48 


52 ' 24 77G 

1 




: 


2 


2 


_. 

















89 : 83- 


29 817 










_ 









' Tlio sanitary organization of a corps of the rcjitilar establishment, or one difl'erini; in combatant 
strength, should be based upon this ratio. 

Relative 2ii'oportion of the necessary uiheel transportation <ni(l icntage to the 
CO mbatavt force of an army corps. 

For wheel transportation: 

One ambulance to 400 men. 

One army wagon to 000 men. 

One escort wagon to brigade. 
For tentage: 

One hospital tent to .300 men. 

One common tent to 1 ,200 men. 
Note.— The above estimate is subject to change by orders from the War 
Department. 



634 INVESTIGATION OF rONDTTCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

circular letters. 

Headquarters of the Army, 
Washington, D. C, July 5, ISDS. 

The Chief Surgeon . Corps. 

Sir: Paragrai^h I. In the absence of specific instriictions from the military 
authorities you will be governed by the following : 

When troops are moved from one corps to another by regimental detachments, 
you will recommend that there be sent with each regiment its regimental jjerson- 
nel and dispensary outfit, viz, medical and surgical chests, tentage, etc.. but not 
its wheel transportation. 

When the movement includes a brigade organization, recommendation shoxild 
be made that a brigade section from the division field hospital and from the divi- 
sion ambulance comj^ny, complete as to personnel and material, should be sent 
with it. 

Paragraph II. Should the headquarters of the corps with which you are serving 
be removed from the camp of instruction you will recommend the detail, from 
among the medical officers who remain at the camp, of an experienced officer to 
act as chief surgeon until the arrival of another corps headquarters. 
Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 
Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



Headquarters of the Army, Office op the Chief Surgeon, 

Port Ponce, Pe>rto Rico, August 11, 1S9S. 
The Adjutant-General, 

Headquarters of the Army. 
Sir: I have the honor to request that the commanding general of the First 
Army Corps be directed to detail one-half of the corps reserve field hospital, with 
its tentage and personnel, for duty with the sick at this station. 

Very respectfully, 

Chas. R. Greenleaf, 

Colonel, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, 

Chief Surgeon Army in the Field. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 635 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 14-MEDICAL OFFICERS. 

The imml)er of medical officers, 192, allowed by law to the Army is inadeiinate 
in time of peace. This number inclndes the additional 15 assistant surgeons 
authorized by the act approved May 12, 1898. Later m May there were 18 vacan- 
cies; 6 officers were engaged in administrative duties in the office of tlie Surgeon- 
General and in the superintendence of the library and Army Medical Museum; 
11 wei'e on duty at medical-supply deijots and as chief surgeons of military depart- 
ments, 1 at the United States Soldiers' Home, Washington, D. C, 56 at general 
hospitals and at garrisoned posts, 1 as colonel of a volunteer regiment, while 4 
were disabled. One hundred officers were thus left for field service, 5 of whom 
were placed on duty us chief surgeons of army corps, 36 as brigade surgeons of 
volunteers, and 59 as regimental surgeons and assistants with the regular troops. 
The insufficiency of the last-mentioned number was made tip by the assignment 
of medical men iTnder contract. 

All volunteer regiments had 3 medical officers appointed by the governors of 
States. Volunteer surgeons to fill the staff positions authorized by the act 
approved April 22, 1898, were appointed by the President; 8 corps surgeons with 
the rank of lieutenant-colonel, and 110 division and brigade surgeons with the 
rank of major; 5 of the former and 36 of the latter positions were filled, as indi- 
cated aliove, by the appointment of officers of tlie Army Medical Department. 

The President also appointed three medical officers for each of the regiments of 
United States volunteer infantry, cavalry, and engineers. The very small pro- 
portion of medical officers having experience of a military character impaired the 
efficiency of the department at the outset, but many of the staff surgeons from 
civil life showed great aptitude for the service and speedily became of value as 
administrative and sanitary officers. 

The large number of sick which had to be cared for during the progress of the 
war in regimental, division, and general hospitals rendered imperative the 
employment of additional medical assistance. Under the provisions of the act 
ai)proved May 12, 1898, the services of over 650 contract surgeons were engaged. 
Most of these doctors from civil life did good service. Many of them were thor- 
oughly well-equipped physicians and surgeons, with ample hospital experience, 
but it was impossible to make a careful selection, owing to the great pressure of 
business in this office. Since it was impracticable to have the qualifications of 
each passed upon by an examining board, I endeavored as far as possible to obtain 
satisfactory prcfessional indorsement before authorizing the contract. 



6SG INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAlN. 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 15-HOSPITAL CORPS. 

On April 25. ISD.s, in connection with the call of the President of the United 
States for 125,000 volunteers. I i-ecommended that the law restricting the number 
of hospital stewards to 100 be changed, and that for each regiment of volunteer 
infantry or cavalry there should be enlisted 1 hospital steward, 1 acting hospital 
steward, and 25 privates; for each battery of artillery, 1 hospital steward and 5 
privates, and for each division of the army, 1 hospital steward. 1 acting hospital 
steward, and 50 pi'ivates, to serve under the direction of the chief surgeon of the 
division. These recommendations were acted upon so far favorably, that by the 
act approved June 2. 1898, Congress susjiended during the existing war all pro- 
^^sidns of law limiting the number of hospital stewards at any one time to 100, and 
reqiTiring that a person to be appointed a hospital steward shall first demonstrate 
his fitness therefor by actual service of not less than twelve months as acting 
hospital steward, provided that the increase of hospital stewards under this act 
shall not exceed 100. In addition to the 200 stewards thus authorized, each vol- 
unteer organization received into the service was allowed 1 hospital steward 
for each battalion (act approved April 20.. 1898). There was, however, no pro- 
vision made for hospital-corps men for the volunteer troops except that which 
empowered the Secretary of War (act March 1, 1897) to enlist as many privates 
for the Hospital Corps as the service may require. 

To provide this corps with the necessary number of men, recruiting officers 
were urged to secure suitable men and medical officers to effect tlie transfer of 
men from the line of the Army. Letteis were sent to superintendents ot training 
schools for male nurses in the prominent cities, advising them of the need for 
desirable men, and asking their assistance in securing unemployed nurses. A 
number of medical students, pharmacists, and young graduates in medicine, 
enlisted in the Hospital Corps for service during the war, and it is believed that 
the efficiency of the corps was thereby raised considerably. 

Recommendation was made May 14, 1898, that mustering officers be instructed 
to enlist desirable men. approved by medical officers, at the rate of -5 for each 
batallion. and subsequently that these be permitted to accompany the regiments 
on their future service. This recommendation was reiterated on June 18 iii a 
communication to the Adjutant-General. Meanwhile General Orders, No. 58, 
Headquarters of the Army, Adjutant-General's Office, May 81, 1898, author- 
ized the transfer of men from the line of the volunteers to the Hospital Corps 
of the Regular Armj' upon the recommendation of the chief surgeon, and sus- 
pended the provision of Army Regulations governing the Hospital Corps so far 
as they were inapplicable in time of war and with troops in the field. Com- 
manders of corps and of indejiendent divisions and brigades were charged with 
the full control of the transfer from the line, the enlistment and discharge of 
members of the Hospital Corps, the detail of acting hospital stewards, and the 
appointment of stewards^ the last limited by subsequent orders to 10 stewards 
for an army corps, in addition to those authorized for the volunteer regiments. 
Authority for immediate enlistments, without reference to this office except in 
cases where slight defects existed, was also given to a number of chief surgeons. 

The number of men enlisted and transferred during the war was, approximately 
6,000. 



REPLY OF suhgp:on-genekal. G37 

CONTRACT NURSES. 

The want of a sufficient body of trained Hospital Corps men necessitated the 
detail of enlisted men from the regiments for hospital duty in several (jf the 
camps and the employment of trained nurses at the general hospitals. Foresee- 
ing thenecessity for a large force of the latter, I applied to Congi-ess. April 28, 
1898. for aiTthority to employ by contract as many nurses as might be required 
during the war. at the rate of $30 per month and a ration, the pay proper to be 
paid from the appropriation for the ]\Iedical and Hospital Departmen.t. This was 
promptly granted. About the same time the National Society of the Daughters 
of the American Revohition offered its services as an examining board for female 
nurses, and a committee, of which Dr. Anita Newcomb McGee was chairman, 
was designated to take charge of the work. Thereafter most of the female 
nurses employed, were selected by this committee, with the exception of those 
immune to yellow fever, who were recruited in New Orleans and other Southern 
cities, and a few who were enrolled at Montauk Point, Long Island, and eTackson- 
\'ille, Fla., by the chief surgeons at these places. A mimber of x^atriotic societies 
offered to provide the hosjiitals with nurses, but the committee referred to 
answered its i^urpose so well, that I did not feel the need of adthtional assistance, 
and was relieved from what would otherA\nse have been a serious responsibility. 

Over 1 ,700 female nurses have been employed at first at the general hospitals, 
and later at the field division hospitals, when it became e^'ident that the field serv- 
ice purposes for which the latter had been organized would have to give place to 
the imperative need of caring for the many sick men coming from the regimental 
camps. These hospitals ceased to be ambulance hospitals, and their character of 
fixed field hospitals was promptly recognized by assigning contract surgeons and 
nurses to duty with them, and providing them with articles of equipment which 
can not be carried in the hospital wagons of a marching command. Female 
nurses were not sent to these field hospitals until their original function as an 
essential adjunct to a command mobilized for active service became lost in the 
cuiTent of immediate necessities. Many of the trained nurses were Sisters of 
Charity, whose services were highly appreciated by medical officers in charge, as 
Avell as by the individual sick men who benefited by their ministrations. Others 
were obtained through the kind assistance of the Red Cross Society for the Main- 
tenance of Trained Nurses, Auxiliary No. 3. and I desire to express my high appre- 
ciation of the valuable services rendered to the Medical Department by this 
organization. 

MEDICAL AND HOSPITAL SUPPLIES. 

Up to the time that war was declared it was not practicable to take any imme- 
diate steps to obtain supplies, as it was not known until that date that the troops 
would actually be called out, nor were there funds available from which to make 
purchases. But already before April 1 , in xiesv of the possibility of future needs, 
orders were given to have the field medical outfits, medical and surgical chests, 
instruments, etc., at the supply depots put in order for issue in case of need, and 
early in March the preparation of new iiattern medical and surgical chests was 
begun, so as to have them ready for manufactiire shojild the necessity arise. 

Immediately upon the declaratitm of war, April 31, steps were taken to obtain 
medical supplies for the new Volunteer Army. For the moi'e important articles, 
and those of highest cost, bids were imited at short notice — such, for instance, as 
medical and surgical cliests. litters and slings, field operating cases, pocket cases, 
orderly and hospital C(n-ps pouches, etc. Orders were given to have the manu- 
facture expedited wnth the utmost dispatch. 



638 INVESTIGATIUN OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 16. 

Very few complaints in regard to nonreceipt of supplies and lack of medical 
supplies have readied this office, considering the very large operations of the 
Supply Department, the ^^^de extent of country involved, and the numerous 
camps and commands to be suijplied. There were temporary delays in the arrival 
of supplies at Camp Thomas, Chickamauga, and Tampa, Fla. , for General Shaffer's 
army, but they were in all cases due to defective transportation facilities, and not 
to the want of foresight or jjrompt attention to requisitions on the part of the 
surgeon-general. Trifling, if any, difficulties have been experienced at the other 
camps and stations. 

It is not believed to be necessary or advisable to submit the telegrams referring 
to the delays in nonreceipt of supplies and orders given by the Surgeon-General 
for expediting, tracing, or duplicating them. In every instance prompt measures 
were taken to remedy the difficulty. 

It has come to the knowledge of the Surgeon-General indirectly, chiefly through 
the press, that some medical officers of volunteer regiments have complained that 
they could not get medicines and other medical sujiplies. Very few direct com- 
plaints have been made to this office. The complaints can be accounted for in 
several ways. Volunteer medical officers being taken directly from civil life 
were accustomed to in-escribing from the extensive and varied assortments of 
drugs and preparations found in the tb-ug store, not realizing that the Army field 
supply is limited in variety by the necessarily limited field transportation, and by 
the necessity of supplj'ing medicines in tablet or solid form to ob%date danger of 
breakage of bottles of liqiiitls. In the Army field sujjply every important or 
necessary article of the materia medica is represented, and it is perfectly possible 
to treat diseases adecpiately by using one of the prei)arations allowed. It is pos- 
sible that some medical officers, not being able to get exactly the preparation or 
combination they wanted, were nnfaii- enough to say that they could not get 
medicines necessary (as they considered) for the care of the sick. Again, diffi- 
culty has arisen, no doiibt, from the ignorance of voliinteer medical officers of 
the proper mode of making reqiiisition for medical supplies, and because they did 
not always take the trouble to inform themselves or to consult the manuals and 
regulations, which were freely distributed. 

Some medical officers, it is believed, finding that the agents of relief associa- 
tions at hand were not only \\"illing but anxious to supply medicines and stores, 
accepted them rather than make requisition, and thus inciar accountability for the 
articles when received. 

It is therefore easy to see that the unjust impression might arise that the Medi- 
cal Department had failed to supply the needs of the sick, while the simple fact 
is that the proper authorities were not informed of their needs. 

Field hospitals, where fevers and other serious affections were treated, were 
not restricted to the articles on the field suiiply table. Not only so, but many 
articles never heretofore furnished by the Government have been supplied in 
order to gi-atify the wishes of those immediately charged with the care of the 
sick, and to place in their hands everji;hing that would be likely to aid their 
treatment. 

Papers filed in this office relating to deficiencies of medical supplies were sub- 
mitted to the commission in my communication dated October 8, 1898. 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
SnrgcoH-ifou'ntl. United States Army. 



REPLY OF SriiGEON-GENERAL. 639 



DATA RELATING TO QUESTION 17-FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS. 

War Department. Surgeon-Generals Office, 

Washington. D. C, October—, isns. 
The Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to submit the following as a snnmiary of my report for 
the year ended June 30, 1898: 

FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS. 

Medical and Hospital Department, 18DS. 

Appropriated by act approved March 2, 1897 $135, 300. 00 

Refunded during the year 768. 07 

Total to be accounted for 135. 968. 07 

Disbursed during the year: 

Exiienses of purveying depots - $77. 20 

Medical supplies 70, 693. 06 

Pay of employees 34, 255. 09 

Expenses of recruiting 3. 257. 95 

Medical attendance and medicines 14. 41 5. 27 

Washing at post hospitals 1, 290. 91 

Pay of nurses - . - 1, 037. 26 

Miscellaneous expenses 98. 99 

125. 131 . 73 

Balance on hand to be accounted for June 30, 1898 10 836. 34 

In the United States Treasury 31. 23 

In hands of disbursing officers: 

AtNew York 418.19 

AtSt. Louis 0.00 

At Washington - - - - 386. 93 

With Philippine expedition - . - 10, 000. 00 

10,836.34 

The above balance of §10,836.34, remaining on hand July 1, 1898, has since been 
all expended. 

Medical and Hospittd Department. 1S97. 

Balance on hand July 1, 1897, act of March 6, 1896 - - $54, 417. 24 

Refunded during the year - 48. 54 

Total to be accounted for - - - 54, 465. 78 

Disbursed during the year: 

Medical supplies. §21 . 281 . 68 

Pay of employees --- 100. 00 

Medical attendance and medicines - - - 3. 190. 38 

Washing at po.st hospitals 162. 28 

Miscellaneous expenses ^-W- 23 

24,978.56 

Balance on hand to be accounted for June 30, 1898 39. 487. 33 

In United States Treasury - - 34, 841 . 56 



G4(J INVESTKiATlON OF CUMDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

In hands of disbursing officers: 

AtNewYork $956.53 

At St. Loiiis 3, 672. 85 

At Wasliington 1,016.28 

At San Francisco _ _ 0. 00 

$29,487.23 

Medical and Hospital Department, 1S96. 

Balance on hand July 1 , 1897. act of February 12, 1895 $62, 344. 96 

Disbursed during the year $50. 00 

Transferred to surplus fund 63, 394. 96 

62,344.96 

3Iedical and Hospital Department , Jannary 1. ISDO. 

A]T|3ropriated by act approved May 4, 1898 $50, 000. 00 

Appropriated by act approved June 8, 1898 50, 000. 00 

Total to be accounted for 100, 000. 00 

Disbursed: 

Medical supplies $49, 344. 30 

Pay of employees 356. 65 

Expenses of recruiting 5, 975. 63 

Medical attendance and medicines 1 , 370. 80 

Washing at post hospitals 47. 44 

Miscellaneous expenses . _ 49. 18 

57 . 044 . 0( ) 

Balance on hand to be accounted for June 30, 1898 ■ 42. 956. 00 

In hands of disbursing officers: 

At New York 21,269.88 

At St. Louis 13, 418. 30 

At Washington ^ 1 , 473. 42 

At San Francisco 1,794.40 

With Major Torney, hospital ship Relief 5, 000. 00 

42, 956. 00 

National defense (war), act of March 0, ISDS. 

Allotment by the President, April 16, 1898 $20, 000. 00 

Disbursed for medical supplies $19, 964. 39 

Balance on hand June 30. 1898 35. 61 

20,000.00 

It is estimated that about $120,000 of the amounts rejiorted in the above state- 
ment as expended up to and including June 30, 1898, have been used for extraor- 
dinary war expenses. 

Since July 1 the following sums have been appropriated for war expenses on 
account of the Medical Department of the Army, namely: 

By deficiency act, July 7. 1898 $504, 000. 00 

National defense (war;. September 8, 1898, by allotment of the Pres- 
ident 500. 000. 00 

Allotment of the President. October 6. 1898 500, 000. 00 

1.504.000.00 
Of this sum there are at this date (November 1, 1898) available .$395,000, all <jf 
which will be recpiired for the payment of claims and accounts on account of war 
expenses now in this office and to be presented before December 31 of this year. 

In addition to these sums there were also appropriated by the act approved 
March 15, 1898. $115,000. being the regular annual appropriation for the Medical 
and Hospital Department for the fiscal year 1899. Of this appropriation it is esti- 
mated that $50,000 have now been expended for war measures. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. U. S. A. 



641 
7833— VOL. 1 -4:1 



ESTABLISHMENT OF HOSPITALS. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, Octobei' 20, 1S9S. 
The President Commission on the Conduct of the War, 

Sir: The sixth question addresstd by the commission to the Medical Depart- 
ment of the Army ini^nires concerning the hospitals established at the various 
camps and the arrangements made for the care and comfort of the sick and 
wounded. 

In reply. I desire to state that each regiment of the Volunteer Army was 
authorized by law to have one surgeon, two assistant surgeons, and three hospital 
stewards. Inasmuch as at the time of its muster into the service of the United 
State.s it was of necessity a separate organization, the sick had to be cared for by 
the regimental medical staff, assisted, in the absence of hospital-corps men other 
than the stewards, by enlisted men of the line detailed for duty as hospital attend- 
ants by the regimental commander. Each regiment of the Regular Army had 
one medical officer and its quota of hospital-corps men detached from the mili- 
tary stations at which the companies of the regiments had been stationed prior to 
the outbreak of the war, and each had an ample provision of medical supplies 
derived from the same sources. Some of the regiments of the Volunteer Army 
were provided by the State authorities with more or less of the equipment needful 
to establish a regimental hospital, but the majority had little or nothing in the 
way of medical supplies. Provision was therefore made by me to supply the 
necessities of these regiments. The field supply table of the iledical Department, 
approved by the Secretary of War, May 9, 1898, shows the articles and quantities 
prepared for issue to each command. Some regimental surgeons did not get their 
supplies as promptly as was desirable. As all could not be supplied at the same 
time, the effort was made to supply first those that had been first organized, but 
delays occurred in transportation and delivery from excess of business on the 
roads and at the depots, and not unfrequently regiments were moved from the 
camps to which their supplies had been shipped before the arrival or delivery of 
these supplies. To relieve the necessities of individual regiments and provide for 
the treatment of their sick by regimental medical officers, medical purveying 
depots were establisiied in all the large camps, and in special cases authority was 
telegraphed to the regimental officer to purchase from drug stores. Many medi- 
cal officers were short of supplies at this time because of their want of familiarity 
with the methods of procuring them. 

As soon as the regiments were organized into brigades and divisions, preparatory 
to active service, it became the duty of each chief surgeon of an army corps to 
see that the medical department of his command was organized to meet the casu- 
alties of battle. Tlie object of the concentration of the troops was to accustom 
the regiments to operations in which they constituted the units of a higher organ- 
ization. The experience of the civil war demonstrated that for efficient service in 
an active campaign the medical department also required a higlier organization. 

Circular No. 3, from this office, dated May 18, 1898, in specifying the duties of 
the various medical officers in an army corps, indicated the character of the 
organization to be adopted. The seriously sick were to be treated in division 
field hospitals, under the care of the most experienced physicians and able sur- 
geons on duty with each division. I\fedical officers left on duty with their regi- 
ments were to exercise sanitary supervision over the well men and to determine 

643 



644 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

whether a soldier reporting himself sick should be sent to hospital or remain as a 
trivial case under treatment in quarters. This consohdatioh of the medical force 
by divisions, implying as it did the breaking up of the regimental hospitals, met 
vi'ith a strong opposition from regimental medical officers, particularly from those 
who were not detailed for special service at the division hospitals. Regimental 
commanders also were in many instances opposed to it, forgetful that the object 
of the Medical Department, as of the line, was to get into training for field service. 
Similar objections were raised in 1SG2 and 1803 to the establishment of field hos- 
pitals and the practical disestablishment of the regimental institutions, 1 ut the 
civil war lasted long enough to demonstrate the efficiency of the system. The 
advantages of the plan of organization adopted are set forth in a paper upon 
" The organization of the Medical Department of the Army in the field," inclosed 
herewith, by Col. Charles R. Greenleaf, Assistant Surgeon- General, United States 
Army, chief surgeon Army in the field. 

HOSPITALS FIFTH ARMY CORPS. 

The organization of the division hospital of the Fifth Army Corps was begun 
May 3 at Tampa, Fla. There is ample testimony to show that long before the 
corps embarked for Cuba its field hospitals were in condition for efficient service, 
and that although its ambulance companies were not filled up to their intended 
strength nor fully equipped with ambulances, wagons, horses, and harness, such 
sections of them as had their equipment completed were well drilled in hospital- 
corps work and ready for active service. Each hospital had about eight G-mule 
wagons to haul its tentage and supplies. The equipment of the Second Division 
hospital was completed at an early date. It contained 85 cots, with a sufficiency 
of furniture and necessary fixtures, and as the demand for extra accommodations 
increased the capacity of the hospital was augmented to 150 beds. The operating 
tent was provided with enameled steel folding operating tables, steam sterilizers 
and water heaters, bath tubs, and other necessary appliances. The hospitals of 
the First and Third divisions and of the cavalry divisions were similarly outfitted. 
In addition to these field hospitals, certain medical supplies, with one acting stew- 
ard, one private, one hospital and one common tent, one ambulance wagon, and the 
necessary animals tully equipped, were retained as a minimum allowance with 
each regiment. (General Orders, No. 14, Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, June 
6,1898.) 

Subsequent events, however, rendered valueless these preparations of the Medi- 
cal Department for active service in Cuba. When the command embarked on 
the transport vessels the baggage wagons and mules were left behind " and were 
never seen again by the medical department of the Fifth Army Corps." The 
ambulance trains of all the divisions, with a large part of the outfit of each of the 
hospitals, were also left behind. Three ambulance wagons were taken apart and 
stored on one of the vessels. These did excellent service at San Juan and showed 
how efficient the ambulance companies would have been had they not been 
deprived of their equipment. Thirteen of the ambulances of the Third or reserve 
division were subsequently shipped to Cuba, where they arrived July 2, and were 
of value in moving the sick and wounded to the hospital at Siboney and to the 
hospital ships and transports. 

While the ambulance service of the division hospitals of this command was 
practically destroyed by these failures to embark or disembark its wagons, har- 
ness, horses, and mules, part of the tentage and property of the hospitals was left 
at Tampa with the sick left there, and of the property and supplies carried to 
Cuba a portion was not available for service at the time it was most needed, to wit, 
on July 1 and 3, when the wounded from El Caney and San Juan were coming 
from the front for care and treatment. This was because in general no oppor- 



REPLY OF srROrOX-GENERAL. ()45 

tunity was afforded to land the medical property, because there was no trans- 
portation on shore for such articles as misht be landed, and because the mastersof 
transports took their vessels out to sea after the debarkation of the troops because 
of their fear of wreck by collision with each other or by drifting on the rocks. Earn- 
est efforts were made by medical officers to have supplies at the front with the 
troops. Some having succeeded in getting their medicine chests and other articles 
of medical property ashore had these carried forward on litters bj' hospital-corpg 
men to the camiis near Sevilla, while others turned their private mounts into pack 
horses for this purpose. A reserve supply of medicines shipped on the Si'<inran(;a 
from the purveying depot at Tampa was landed June 27. These issued to regi- 
mental medical officers materially relieved the stress caused by the loss of regi- 
mental medicine chests. 

The tents and property of the First Division hospital were landed by the efforts 
of the hospital-corps men under the direction of Maj. M, W. Wood, surgeon, 
United States Army. The hospital outfit was carried to the front by hand and 
on litters used as handbarrows by the nurses and attendants. 

The second field hospital landed was that of the cavalry division under Major 
McCreery; but the transport put to sea before the whole of the property was 
removed from her. This with the immediate incoming of the wounded from, the 
fight at Guasimas led Major Havard, the chief surgeon of the division, to look for 
assistance from the Red Cross Society. Assistance was freely given then and 
afterwai-ds. but a misimderstanding, the particulars of which are specially 
reported in the appended document,* gave origin to many press accounts of the 
refusal of the Red Cross assistance by army medical officers. Both Major Havard 
and Lieutenant-Colonel Pope, the chief surgeon of the Fifth Corps, testify 
to the value of the field supplies received from the State of Texas, the Red Cross 
supply ship, and to the earnest and untiring work of Miss Barton and her assist- 
ants in caring for the wounded. 

The Third Division hospital, which landed from the Saratoga after many delays 
afterwards became the base hospital at Siboney. To this was sent all the medical 
supplies recovered from the transports or landed from the hospital ship Relief. The 
fourth divisional hospital of the corps was retained on the steamer Olivette, which 
was thus extemporized into a hospital ship. The tents and camp outfit of this 
hospital were landed for service at Siboney. During and after the battles at El 
Caney and San Juan there was an insufficiency of tents, cots, bedding, and medi- 
cines, due to the causes already stated, but all the hospitals were well equipped 
for surgical work. Early in the second week of Jiily a few cases of yellow fever 
appeared among persons who had occupied the huts at Siboney, and day by day 
thereafter a steady and rapid increase of the disease was ol)served. This neces-si- 
tated the establishment of a yellow-fever hospital and of a detention hospital, in 
which cases of a suspicious character coming from the camps were held pending 
a decision as to their nature. The want of shelter was seriously felt at these hos- 
pitals, and was, iinder the circumstances, corrected, but slowly, when tents could 
be spared from the base hospital at Sibon;'y and fi-om the first divisional hospital 
as its wounded were removed for transportation from Cuba. 

After the capitulation of Santiago the troops at the front broke down rapidly 
under the fatigues they had undergone and the malarial infiuences to which thoy 
were exposed. Remittent and typhoid cases became exceedingly common. To 
relieve the pressure on the field hospitals such convalescents and sick as could bear 
the journey home were sent to the United States on transport vessels. 

Up to August 31 there were treated in the First Division hospital 890 cases, with 
a mortality of 116: in the yellow-fever hospital, 549 cases, with a mortality of 46, 
and in the reserve divisional hos])ital or base hospital, 2,654 cases, with 106 deaths. 



* Surgeou-Geueral's Office, -tiOTP. 



646 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

By this time an ample supply of tents, furniture, bedding clothing, and medical 
stores had reached Siboney, together with a corps of trained nurses and a force of 
surgeons, those sent to duty at the yellow-fever hospital being immune to that 
disease. 

Reference has already been made, in my commimication of October 13, to the 
embarkation of sick and wounded soldiers for transportation to this country. 
This was an emergency measure to relieve the hospitals at Siboney and permit of 
the transfer to them of the men who were sick in regimental camps. It should 
have been carried oiTt under the supervision of the military authorities at San- 
tiago, who alone were cognizant of tlie necessity and of the means available for 
effecting the transfer. My circular of July 18, 1898, defining the duties of Army 
medical officers, requires that the chief surgeon of a corps " should supervise the 
movement of sick and wounded to the base or general hospitals, providing trans- 
portation and detailing medical officers and attendants for their care."' 

The transfer of troops from Santiago to Montauk Point. New York, was also an 
emergency measure, but it was conducted under proper supervision by the mili- 
tary authorities concerned. The great responsibility of excluding yellow fever 
infection from every transport rested on the medical officers who had charge of 
the embarkation. Had they failed in this duty, the effect would have been disas- 
trous during the voyage to the men confined on shipboard, and the risk of import- 
ing the disease into this country would have been greatly increased. Fortunately 
the delicate task was accomplished without the occurrence of any such outbreak 
of disease among the troops as was anticipated by many medical men and others 
who could appreciate the deadly character of the risks involved. 

The sanitary conditions on board of these transports were fairly good. By way 
of illustration attention is invited to a report by Ma.i. Walter D. McCaw, surgeon 
United States Volunteers who accompanied the Sixth and Thirteenth United States 
Infantry on the Vigilan(^-a." The ventilation of the sleeping quarters of the men 
is shown to have been satisfactory plenty of deck room was available and the 
berths below were not overcrowded. The ship's officers and crews were attentive 
to the wants of the command, providing every means possible in the preparation 
of their meals and in making them comfortable in their quarters. The water 
supply was plentiful and good. The weather was excellent during the short voy- 
age and the health and spirits of the men improved every day. 

In view of the necessity for the return of the troops of the Fifth Army Corps from 
Santiago, Cuba, preparations were made for encamping them at Montauk Point, 
Long Island. These included the establishment of temporary tent ho.spitals, not 
only for the treatment of the large number of sick brought by each command 
from Cuba, but for the isolation and treatment of those from transports lying 
under the suspicion of yellow-fever infection. The detention hospital received 
its first cases on August 15. At that time it consisted of separately pitched hospi- 
tal tents, but as the cases received from the ti'an sports increased in number, 
framed and floored tent pavilions were erected, consisting of six tents pitched end 
on to each other, with a fly inserted in the middle of the length of the pavilion to 
promote ventilation. On the 31st 14 of these pavilion wards were in use with 40 
tents pitched singly for convalescents. At this time there were 15 medical men 
on duty at the hospital. 

At first the corps of nurses comprised only 41 members of the hospital corps 
and four volunteer Red Cross nurses. Policing was done by hired laborers. A 
temporary detail of men from the Two hundred and third New York was 
obtained to increase the hospital force until the arrival of trained female nurses. 
Sixty of these were employed at the hospital. The patients were provided with 
cots, bed linen, and blankets, and the limit of five patients to each tent was seldom 



♦Surgeon General s Office, 414i'2. 



REPLY OF SURdEON-GENERAL. ("47 

exceeded. This hospital had about 500 beds. Civilian cooks were employed. 
Milk and eggs were always plentiful for special diet. Medicines were drawn from 
Montauk Hospital, which was but a few hundred yards distant. The difficulties 
in the way of administering the affairs of this hospital were vcn-y great, owing to 
the rapidity with which the transports followed each other in their arrival. As 
many as four reached the Point on some days, from August 13 to ol, most of them 
bringing sick requiring detention for medical observation. 

The obviously temporary nature of the establishment prevented efforts to pro- 
vide it with fixtures or furniture when the purpose could be effected by extempo- 
rizations. Thus in the tents used as offices, dispensary, and storehouses, empty 
packing boxes were utilized as desks, chairs, washstands, etc. This, no doubt, 
created an impression of discomfort and privation in the minds of superficial 
observers, but tlie sick men were as well cared for and as comfortal)le in their 
cots here as afterwards when transferred to the general hospital at Montauk Point. 
There was an excellent steam disinfecting plant on the grounds, with a formal- 
dehyde chamber attached. The laundry work was done at a steam laundry near 
the hospital. 

The temporary tent hospital, which was locally known as the General Hos)>ital, 
Montauk Point, consisted of 18 pavilions, similar to those of the detention hos- 
pital. A central corridor running east and west had 9 of these pavilions opening 
on it on each side. An annex had speedily to be constructed to accommodate the 
large number of sick arriving on the transports, transferred from the detei^tion 
hospital, or received from the regimental camps of the Fifth Army Corps. This 
annex consisted of 14 tent pavilions, an-anged 7 on each side of a centrrJ corridor. 
Other pavilions were added in parallel rows as an extension of the accommoda- 
tions became necessary. Tent pavilions were used as dining rooms, but frame 
buildings were erected for use as kitchens. 

The capacity of this hospital was 1,600 beds. Its personnel consisted of 40 med- 
ical men, B stewards, 10 acting stewards, 120 privates of the hospital corps. 15 
cooks, and 50 male nurses and an average of about 200 female nurses, one-half of 
whom were Sisters of Charity. 

In the hospitals at Montauk Point there were treated, to August 31, 4,430 cases, 
with a mortality of 124— 3. 50 per cent. 

Supplies of all kinds were amply provided on timely requisitions. Emergency 
calls were met by direct purchase in New York City. Large supplies of milk, 
eggs, chickens, canned articles, and other material for special diets were always on 
hand. Provision for special diet was made not only by the hospital, but by the 
Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Association, the Red Cross Society, and the Woman's 
War Relief Association. Cooks and helpers were kept on duty night and day to 
meet emergencies in special cases. 

In one or two instances inquiry has been made as to the treatment of the body 
in the case of soldiers who died at these or other military hospitals. As a rule, 
immediately after death the body was washed, the jaws bandaged, and the rectum 
closed. When cold, the body was dressed in uniform and placed in a coffin. If 
the relatives of the dead soldier desired his body to be sent home for burial , an 
undertaker removed it to his establishment, where he embalmed it and expressed 
it to its destination in a hermetically sealed zinc-lined coffin. If no communica- 
tion was received from the relatives it was buried in a suitable place twenty-four 
hours or more after death, unless hot weather rendered an earlier burial neces- 
sary. The grave was properly marked for identification. 

The Medical Department has been criticised adversely for granting furloughs to 
go to their homes from this camp and its hospitals to men who, it is claimed, were 
obviously unfit to travel, and cases were cited in the newspapers to sustain this 
criticism— cases of men who had fainted by the way and had to be cared for by 



648 INVE8TIOATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

the Red Cross agents or sympathizing strangers. To correct this abuse and pre- 
vent a recurrence of such cases, it was not the carelessness or recklessness of the 
army doctors which had to be restrained, but their sympathy with the patient 
and with the desire of the patient's friends to be intrusted with his care in view of 
a speedier recovery in the atmosphere of home. As a matter of fact, the otficers 
cliarged with the duty of f urloughing the sick men were kindly and sympathetic, 
and such mistakes as were made wei-e attributable to the great pressure brought 
to bear on this side of their nature. 

It is needless to refer at this time to the complaints of starvation which appeared 
almost daily in the newspapers during the occupation of Camp Wikotf . for it is 
now generally understood that the weakness, prostration, anaemia, and emacia- 
tion of so many of the troops were the results of malarial, typhoid, and yellow 
fever, from which the Army siiffered as a consequence of its expostire to the cli- 
matic iufiuences and local infections of Santiago and its neighborhood, pending 
and subsequent to the surrender of the city. 

The Medical Department has been criticised also for moving typhoid cases from 
the camp to the hospitals in various cities, with the attending risk of propagating 
this dangerous disease not only in these cities, but throughout the country while 
en route to them. The movement was made to have these cases of prolonged 
duration carefully sheltered before the oncoming of the chilly and stormy weather, 
which is usually expected on that coast about the equinoctial period; but as the 
movement was eifected by steamship the spread of the disease by cases en route 
was prevented, and as the city hospitals to which they were transferred have all 
the needful facilities for disposing of infected material without danger to the com- 
munity, it is seen that there is no basis for the criticisms cited. 

HOSPITALS OF THE HOME CAMPS. 

The regiments composing the other corps of the Army were camped, at first, in 
State camps, and afterwards aggregated in camjisof organization and instruction. 
The First and Third corps were organized at Camj) George H. Thomas, Chicka- 
mauga Park, Ga. ; the Second at Camp Russell A. Alger, near Falls Church, Va.; 
the Fourth at Mobile, Ala., and Fernandina, Fla.: the Seventh at Jacksonville, 
JSliami, and Panama Park, Fla.; and the Eighth near San Francisco, Cal., pre- 
liminary to its embarkation for Manila. 

The method of hospital organization in all these camps was practically the same, 
and there was much similarity in the conditions affecting them and correspond- 
ingly in their history. Regiments reported, as already stated, provided in but few 
instances with the material and supplies for their medical care and in no instance 
witli that liberaiit}- whicii by consolidation or concentration of regimental supplies 
would permit of the formation of a well-e(iuipped hospital for a division. But 
they brought sick men with them, and these required immediate care. Provision 
had to l)e made for division hospitals in view of future field service and for regi- 
mental hospitals in view of immediate necessity. The difficulties in the way of 
the contemporaneous accomplishment of these two objects were great, and they 
were greatly augmented by some of the very men who should have aided in over- 
coming them. 

The inexperience of a majority of the regimental medical oflBcers and of many 
of the chief surgeons prevented them from seeing lieyond the immediate necessity. 
The side had to be cared for, and to this end medicines and many other things had 
to be procured. Relief societies o!i'ered assistance, and this was eagerly accepted 
by these medical officers, not alone for delicacies or luxuries not otherwise provided 
for, but for "Supply Table" articles which could have been had from the medical 
purveyors in their camps or by telegraphic requisition on the Surgeon -General. 
It was easier to accept what was so freely oifered them than to learn how to obtain 



REPLY OF BURGEON-GENERAL. (540 

the iirticles from the proper source. The aici given In' the relief societies did hiirni' 
indirectly by demonstrating this fact. To exphiin tlieir gratified acceptance these 
officers referred to the red tape of War Department methods, and the insinuatioTi 
that the said methods were beyond the comprehension of the ordinary intellect 
was accepted by the sensational press as an explanation in full. In these early 
days of the ramps the exuberance of the patriotic spirit of the people which led 
them to aid the sick soldiers did much good, but, as I have implied, it also did much 
harm. 

Meanwhile chief surgeons of corps and divisions began the organization and 
eqiiipment of their field division hospitals and ambulance companies, but they 
were met at the outset by the apparent impossibility of Securing men for service, 
as cooks, nurses, litter bearers, ambulance drivers, teamsters, etc. The hospital 
corps of the Regular Army could not sujjply these men, because recruiting for 
this corps progressed slowly. The popular tendency to volunteer led men away 
fi'oin the regular recruiting offices. In the regimental hospitals the sick were 
cared for by details from the companies, but when transfers from the volunteer 
regiments to the regular hospital corps were authorized these men did not care 
to leave their local connections for service in the Army at large as regular soldiers. 
Concessions were made to them, among others, that when their former regiment 
became detached to another coi-ps, camp, or duty, they also would be detached to 
accompany it; hut notwithstanding these the hospital corps was recruited so 
slowly that had. the military necessity required one or more army corps to take 
the field their medical service could have been perfected only by drafting men 
from the incomplete hospital organizations of those corps that remained in the 
home camps of organization and instruction. It may be mentioned also as a well- 
recognized fact that the transfers so much desired by the medical department to 
enable it to complete its organization were not regarded favorably by line officers, 
for although every line officer will probably acknowledge, as a general principle, 
that only the most intelligent and capable men should be employed to care for 
the sick and wounded, he is not likely to act on this general principle when it is a 
question of withdrawing for such service the most intelligent and capable men of 
his own company or regiment. 

The division hospitals of the First and Third Corps at Camp George H. Thomas, 
Chickamauga, Ga., and of the Second Corps at Camp Russell A. Alger, Falls 
Church, Va., were usually established in the immediate neighborhood of the regi- 
mental camps of the divisions. They consisted of two or three hospital tents 
pitched end on to each other as pavilion wards, or of four or five tents, two or three 
end on to each other at each end of an intervening fly, the latter inserted to break 
the continuity of the wall and thus to promote ventilation. The pavilions were 
arranged in various ways, according to the configuration of the area available as 
a site, but in general there was a tendency to crowd the area. In none of the 
camp hospitals were the pavilions separated from each other by a space eciual to 
twice their width, a distance which is necessary to give restful (juiet to the inmates, 
free ventilation, good policing, and to lessen the danger froin fire. 

Surgeons in charge recognized that a tent should not be occupied by more than 
six patients, but sometimes this number was exceeded temporarily while waiting 
an increase of tentage. The intention of chief surgeons was to have each ho.spital 
equipped for 200 patients, but in some the number of beds had in July to be 
increased to 250. In some when first established there were not enough cots for 
all the patients, the convalescents or lighter cases sleeping on bed sacks on the 
ground, but this was promptly remedied when ol)served by chief surgeons or 
reported to them. As a rule, the hospitals were kept in campaigning condition; 
that is, the tents were neither framed nor floored, until the increased prevalence of 
typhoid fever attracted attention to their crowded condition, when the object 



650 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

of their existence became suddenly changed from a school for field service to a 
hospital for the treatment of a local outbreak of disease. The pavilions and other 
shelters of the hosp^'tals were well trenched and the camp surface well policed. 

A small pavilion did duty usually as an office and dispensary. A surgical ward 
was connected with an operating tent suitably fitted for antiseptic work. Bath 
tubs were provided to insure a cleanly condition of the patient before admission 
to the wards, and for the subsequent treatment of cases requiring them. In most 
of the hospitals there was also a special ward for venereal cases, and isolation 
wards for cases of measles and mumps. Commodes and bedpans were used in the 
wards with disinfectants; and the reports of the medical board which investigated 
the propagation of typhoid fever in the camps show that the medical officers on duty 
in these hospitals realized the importance of the use of disinfectants in limiting 
the spread of the disease; but it was difficult for them to have efficient service in 
this regard with untrained hospital corps men, and details from the line with even 
less experience. Sinks were dug for convalescents and attendants, but at first 
these were like those in the regimental camps, not far enough removed from the 
occupied tents, and not cared for with that strict attention which their importance 
demanded. 

Special efforts were made in all the hospitals to have good cooks. Seldom, how- 
ever, was there that knowledge on the part of medical officers which enabled them 
to accumulate a hospital fund for the purchase of special articles of diet for the 
sick; but this did not operate to the detriment of the patients, as special-diet 
kitchens, umler the management of capable individuals, were opened at most of the 
hospitals. Money for that purpose was sent to them by me from funds contrib- 
uted and placed at my disposal, Money was also sent directly by individuals and 
by representatives of aid societies; and the Red Cross committees supplied (quan- 
tities of ice and milk, chickens, eggs, lemons, etc. Pajamas, nightshirts, and 
other articles of hospital clothing were also provided by the Red Cross and other 
aid societies. The order of August 10, lS9y, commuting the sick soldiers' ration at 
GO cents made these hospitals wholly independent of outside assistance. 

In the Third Army Corps, particularly in the Second Division, many of the reg- 
iments continued to maintain regimental hospitals after the organization of the 
hosjiital for the division, because the epidemic of typhoid fever interfered with 
the progress of preparation for field service. As illustrating the condition of 
these field hospitals it may be stated that on July 27, 1898, the hospital of this 
division consisted of 37 hospital tents, 8 conical, and 6 common tents, with 385 
cots, 2."50 of which were occupied by patients, cared for b}' 8 medical officers, 6 
stewards, and 138 privates, of whom 45 were details from the line of the Army. 
The hospital streets were broad and the general police excellent. The general 
wards were in good condition, but the typhoid fever wards were crowded. Assist- 
ance was given by the Red Cross, including milk, special articles of food, comforts, 
and 1,500 pounds of ice daily. 

The division hospitals of the Second Corps at Camp Alger were relieved by 
transfers to the general hospital at Fort Myer, Va. As the Letter Hospital in 
Chickamauga Park, Ga. .proved insufficient to accommodate the overflow from 
the division hospitals of the First and Third corps, a large hospital was estab- 
lished in August to receive the rapidly increasing number of cases of sickness 
occurring in these corps. This hospital early in September was officially recog- 
nized as the Sternberg General Hospital. Its first report rendered after this change 
in its official status showed a capacity of 750 beds and a personnel of 15 medical 
men, 1 steward, G acting stewards, 107 privates of the Hospital Corps, and 167 
female nurses. On the movement of the Third Division, First Army Corps, from 
Camp Thomas to Lexington. Ky., its sick and the equipment of its field hospital 
were left in situ, the establishment, then containing 500 beds, being known first as 
the Sanger and afterwards as the Alexander H. Hoff General Hospital. It was 
discontinued September 35, when its sick were in condition to be furloughed. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 651 



CAMP HOSPITALS OF THE SEVENTH ARMV CORPS. 

The division hospitals of the Seventh Army Corps, at Jacksonville and Miami, 
Fla. , consisted of (i tent ijavilion wards of 5 tents each, with a fly between thd 
second and third tents of each ward. The pavilions formed a semicircle of radii 
from a central point, at which was established the office, disijensary, etc., of the 
hospital. Two pavilions were to be regarded as the allowance of accommodation 
for each brigade under ordinary conditions; and the Jittempt was made to keei) 
men of the same regiment together to satisfj' the desire of the volunteer troops to 
preserve the regimental organization in the medical service of the corps. The 
prevalence of measles and mumps necessitated the pitching of extensive isolation 
wards in connection with the formall}' planned pavilions. 

In August preparations were made at the First Division hospital at Jackson- 
ville to give a better shelter than that afforded by the tents. The proposition to 
build frame pavilions, each for 60 beds, was approved and biiilding was begun 
under contract. Concerning the hospitals of this corps a board of medical officers 
convened by Special Order 194, Adjutant-General's Office, August 1, 1898, reported 
favorablj'. The board considered the equipment ample as to tentage, cots, bed- 
ding, etc., and was well pleased with the care and treatment given to the patients. 
The cots and bedding were sent from the supply depot in New York City. 

A rapid increase o; sickness in the First Division, at Miami, as compared with 
the Second Division, at Jacksonville, led to a thorough mvestigation as to its causes. 
The tents were pitched a short distance from the town, on a rough tract of ground 
of coralline formation. The troops were fairly well supplied with tentage and 
cooking utensils, and the camp was well policed. Sinks were not generally used, 
as it was difficult to make them of proper depth. Metallic troughs or latrines, 
llushed into the ocean by a constant stream of water, were used in the First 
Brigade, while the Second Brigade was provided with galvanized-iron tubs, which 
were taken away twice daily to be disposed of in the ocean. Garbage was col- 
lected and carried to the municipal dumping ground. Water was delivered by 
pipe lines from the supply of the town. It was derived from a pond or lake in the 
Everglades, and was reported as being warm and having a disagreeable taste and 
odor, on account of which the men used that from wells. These wells were 
regarded by many as contaminated with surface drainage. In fact, the opinion 
that the water supply was the cause of the prevailing sickness was generally enter- 
tained . Samples analyzed at the laboratory of this office gave results confirmatory 
of this opinion. 

The division hospital was established on a vacant lot in the center of the town, 
an unsuitable and insanitary location. On account of insufficient area, cases of 
measles, many of which were under treatment, could not be properly isolated. 
Sinks and garbage emitting an offensive odor surrounded the lot. The hospital 
was fairly well provided with tents, folding cots, medicines, and other needful 
supplies to care ordinarily for the sick of a division. Tiie appended document, 
41;>9G R., from the files of this office gives full testimony as to the insanitary con- 
ditions at Miami. Early in August the troops were moved to Camp Cuba Lil)re, 
at Jacksonville, Fla. The hospital of the Third Division was established at 
Panama Park, about G miles from Jacksonville. The admissions to these hospitals 
up to August 31 amounted to 3,331, the deaths to 5G. In connection with the 
division hospitals of this corps a convalescent camp was esiablished July '-'7. at 
Pablo Beach, IG miles from Jacksonville, for the recuperation of men who had 
become debilitated through climatic influences. 

CAMP HOSPITALS OF THE FOURTH ARMV CORPS. 

A few regular and volunteer regiments concentrated at Mobile, Ala. , formed 
the nucleus of the Fourth Army Corps and of the Cavalry Division. A division 
hospital of 200 beds was established here, but shortly afterwards the corps moved 



652 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

•to Tampa and Fernandina. Fla. Tent hospitals were established and an excellent 
reserve ambulance company was manned and equipped for service- with troops 
expected to opera'^e in Cuba or Porto Rico. The sanitary conditions in the camps 
at Tampa were not good. Malarial fevers became prevalent and typlioid fever 
common. The division hospital had to be relieved by removing serious cases in 
t!;e hospital train of the Medical Department to the general hospital at Fort Mc- 
Pherson, (J i. About August 1 an overflow hospital was organized in a school 
building in West Tampa. 

The spread of disease among the troops remaining in Tampa after the departure 
of the Porto Rican expedition led to the removal of many of the regiments to the 
neighborhood of Fernandina. The hospital of one division was pitched on the 
beach about 3 miles from Fernandina. A convent in the city was also used for 
hospital imrposes. 

About Juij' 20 the troops for the invasion of Porto Rico embarke<l and sailed. 
The field hospital accommodation with this expeditionary force was ample and the 
supplies abundant. The chief surgeon of the Fourth Corps urged the shipment of 
his reserve ambulance company with this expedition, but General Brooke con- 
sidered this to be unnecessary. 

A short time after the arrival of the troops at Ponce malarial fevers appeared 
among them, and typhoid infection, brought from Chickamauga, Ga. , and Tampa, 
Fla. , manifested its presence in the camps. Some of these cases were sent home 
on returning transports, but as the voyage was found to be very trying to severe 
eases of typhoid fever, I telegraphed Colonel Greenleaf , chief surgeon, to estab- 
lish a general hospital at Ponce for such cases. Tent wards were considered to be 
preferable to the use of any of the buildings in the city. Two hundred hospital 
tents were sent by the Concho on August 13, and furniture, sujiplies, medical 
officers, and nurses on the Relief, Ohdaiii, and other vessels. Colonel Greenleaf 
was also well supplied with funds to provide everything necessary for the well- 
being of the sick. No special report of the conditions at this hospital has yet been 
received, but it is known that up to August 31 546 cases had been received and 13 
deaths had occurred. 

CAMP HOSPITALS ON THE PACIFIC COAST. 

The troops on the Pacific coast were concentrated mostly at San Francisco, Cal. 
Camp Merriam came first into existence on the Presidio Reservation, near the Lom- 
bard-street entrance. Nearly 10,000 men were encamped here; but when it was 
understood that the expeditionary force to the Philippines was to be increased to 
20,000 men, a new camp had to be established. The site selected was near the 
northern boundary of the Golden Gate Park, including the sand dunes in its 
vicinity. This was Camp Merritt, at which 18,000 troops rendezvoused for ship- 
ment to Manila. Much sickness occurred among the regiments in this camp. 
Some of the commands brought with them the infection of measles, and this dis- 
ease spread rapidly. The cases were, in many instances, complicated with bron- 
chitis and pneumonia on account of exposure to the cold, raw winds which blew 
constantly over the site — a site selected without consultation with any representa- 
tive of the Medical Department. Cases of typhoid fever also appeared, with a few 
cases of cerebro-spinal meningitis. Document 39109, appended, gives a detailed 
account of the conditions coincident with these developments. Camp Merritt was 
therefore abandoned, and the troops of the Independent Division of the Eighth 
Army Corps were removed to the grounds of the military reservation at the 
Presidio. 

Eighteen thousand of the ti'oops from Camp Merriam and Camp Merritt were 
dispatched to the Philippine Islands. They were carried on 20 transport steamers, 
the first expedition sailing on May 25. 



REPLY OF .SIJUGE()N-GKNERA1>. 053 

Each steamship, before being accepted by the Government, was inspected by a 
board of medical oflBcers, and in each instance the vessel was thoroughly dis- 
infected before the troops went on board. Two or three medical officers, as 
many hospital stewards, and ten to fifteen privates of the hospital corps, fully 
equipped for field service, were assigned to eacli ship. Witli eacli expedidoii was 
a large quantity of medical supplies to provide the troops for six months and to 
equip suitable hospitals at Manila. These supplies included medicines, surgical 
instruments, dressings, hospital furniture, beds ai d bedding, and all the miscel- 
laneous articles required for the proiier treatment and com Tort of the sick. Many 
articles, believed to be necessary in the treatment of the diseases incident to the 
climate of the Philippine Islands, were largely in excess of the allowances of the 
supply table. Large reserve supplies were sent on the Arizona and the Scandia, 
which sailed late in August, to replenish the stores already sent, and an additional 
supply was also placed on both ships in case they should be required to make the 
return voyage in the capacity of hospital ships. 

The precautions taken to secure a good sanitary condition of the vessels prior 
to embarkation, and the sanitary siipervision exercised over the men during their 
long voyage, must be credited with the excellent condition in which tlie troops 
arrived at Manila, for if any notable sickness had occurred on these vessels its 
presence would certainly have been announced in the press dispatches. I have 
received but few reports as yet from medical officers who accomjianied this expe- 
ditionary force, but those which have come to hand give a most gratifying view 
of the conditions affecting the men while on board the transports. See the 
appended sanitary reports of the surgeons who made the voyage on the Australia 
and the City of Sidney. 

DIVISION FIELD HOSPITAL, PRESIDIO OF SAN FRANCISCO, CAL. 

The service of this hospital began June 2, 1898, at Camp Merritt, with tents for 
48 patients. At this time serious cases, mostly complications of measles, were 
treated in various civil hospitals in San Francisco. The site of this camp was, 
as stated above, imsuitable. Its surface was a cold damp sand, continually 
exposed to chilly winds and heavy fogs, which saturated the tents, clothing, and 
bedding of the men with moi.sture. On July 21 the hospital was moved to the 
Presidio, where two large brick barrack buildings and a few hospital tents con- 
stit'atetl the accommodations. The ventilation was poor; water had to be carried 
from the lavatory, and the sewerage system, if not faulty, was at least inconvenient 
for hospital purposes. All necessary supplies and furnishings were promptly fur- 
nished by the chief surgeon of the department. A separate special diet kitchen 
which gave satisfaction was maintained. After the departure of the last Philip- 
pine troops on the Scandia, August 2G, the hospital force consisted of 5 hospital 
stewards, 7 acting stewards, 73 privates of the Hospital Corps, 38 female nurses, 
and 10 Sisters of Charity, the capacity of the hospital at the time being 320 beds. 

The ladies of the Red Cross Society of San Francisco established a convalescent 
hospital of 25 beds in a slieltered place at the Presidio, to which patients were 
transferred from the division hospital to recuperate before going on fm-lough or 
being returned to duty. The chief surgeon of the department testifies to the 
value of the assistance given by these ladies, not only as regards tliis hospital, but 
in feeding troops on their arrival and departure, and in providing clothing and 
delicacies for the sick in the camps, hospitals, and transports. 

To complete this general review of the camp hospitals a further reference is 
needful to the history of the regimental hospitals. At first when regimental com- 
mands ceased to be separate commands, in becoming the constituent units of 
brigades and divisions preparatory to operating against the enemy, the regimental 
hospitals were disestablished to consolidate the working force of the medical 



654 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAH WITH SPAIN. 

department and hospital corps into division hospitals and ambulance companies. 
The objects in view were, first, to complete the field organization of the depart- 
ment, and. second, to instruct untrained oflficers and men in their respective duties, 
so that when field service was undertaken the medical department would be effi- 
cient in rear of a marching or fighting command. 

The want of hospital-corps men was the main cause of the failure of chief sur- 
geons to accomplish their purpose promptly. Instead of organizing for field serv- 
ice their time was occupied and their energies spent in endeavoring to procure 
the necessary men by enlistment or transfer. Instead of instructing for field serv- 
ice they had to instruct untrained men in caring for the ordinary percentage of 
sick in a healthy command. But after a time, when sickness invaded the camps, 
the division hospitals became filled, and preparation for field service had to give 
place to the immediate necessity of caring for the sick. The division hospitals 
became expanded, as at Siboney and Tampa, into base hospitals with increased 
needs and increased responsibilities. To these I sent with the utmost dispatch 
physicians and surgeons under contract, to relieve the strain on the medical 
officers attached to the troops, and trained nurses to relieve the details from the 
regiments who were temporarily acting as hospital-corps men. At Camp George 
H. Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga., the expansions of the division hospitals, 
under the conditions brought about by the typhoid invasion of the camps, became 
officially recognized as general hospitals, and were promptly provided by me with 
the best available medical service, with male and female trained nurses, with all 
permissible medical and hospital supplies, and with funds for special purchases, 
contributed by relief societies and by individuals. 

The altered conditions under which the division hospitals were operating were 
immediately recognized by the chief surgeon of the Fifth Army Corps at Santiago 
on the breakdown of that corps after the surrender of the city, and every effort 
on the part of his medical officers to care for their sick locally was encouraged by 
giving them every available facility. The effect of this was seen in the camps at 
Montauk Point. Long Island, where regimental medical officers cared for many 
sick under hospital or line canvas, with details by the regimental commander as 
hospital attendants. 

Similarly, in the home camps, regimental hospitals were in many instances 
equipped to meet the necessities of the occasion. In view of the insidious prog- 
ress of typhoid tever in infected individuals, febrile cases in the regimental camps 
required such close attention as could not be given when the men were scattered 
in quarters, and this called for hospital shelter and supplies. There were, there- 
fore, in some of the camps regimental hospitals in which very serious cases Avere 
treated and in which deaths occurred, but these latter were few in number, as a 
transfer to the division hospitals was usually effected when the dangerous char- 
acter of the disease became manifest. 

The tabulation which I submit below does not include all the cases and deaths 
in the field hospitals, because medical officers have not in every instance rendered 
the required reports. The work, for instance, of the hospitals of the Second Army 
Corps is on this account not fully represented in the tabulation, and the reports 
for August from the command in the Philippine Islands have not been received. 
Were all reports available that are due but not rendered, the figures in this tabu- 
lation would be materially increased. 

Besides this the cases enumerated below do not represent all the men that were 
taken on sicls: report. They do not include the trivial cases that were treated in 
quarters, nor those cases of a serious character which were treated in regimental 
hospitals when the accommodations of the division hospitals were tempor;irily 
under strain. They do, however, include most of the cases that were tabulated 
in the reply to the fifth question of the Commission as the cases admitted into the 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 



655 



general hospital directly from the regiments. As the majority of those admitted 
into the general hospitals passed through the division or other field hospitals en 
route, the cases tabulated in the reply to the fifth question are the same cases 
enumerated below as admitted into the field hospitals. 

TabitlaUoa of cases and deaths in, field and general hospitals April 1 to August 31, 

1S9S. 



Army corps. 



First 

Second 

Third 

Fourth 

Fifth 

Seventh 

Eighth- 

Separate camps 



Location, etc. 



FIELD HOSPITALS. 



Firsti Dvision, Chickamauga, Ga 

Second Division. Tampa and Chickamauga Park, Ga 

Third Division. Chickamanga Park, Ga 

First Brigade, First Division, San Juan Road, Porto Rico 

First Division. Camj) Alger, Va 

Second Division, Camp Alger, Va., and Thoroughfai-e, Va... 

First Division, Chickamanga Park, Ga 

Second Division, Chickamauga Park, Ga 

Sternberg Hospital, Chickamauga, Ga 

First Division, near Mobile, Ala 

Second Division, Fernandina, Fla 

Third Division, Fernandina, Fla - 

Field hospitals, Tampa _ 

Reception hospital, E^icnic Island, Fla -.. 

Pouce, Porto Rico -.. 

Field hospitals, Tampa 

Camp near Santiago, Cuba --. 

Siboney, Cuba, reserve division hospital 

Siboney, Cuba, yellow fever hospital 

Montauk Point, L. 1 - .-. 

First Division, Miami and Jacksonville, Fla.- — 

Second Division, Jacksonville, Fla --. .-. 

Third Division, Panama Park, Fla 

Division hosjiitals 

Camp Bushni'U, Columbus, Ohio 

Camp Black, Long Island, N. Y 

Target Range, Waco, Ga 

Saint Simons Island, Ga 

Fernandina, Fla. (Colonel Coates) 

Camp Hobson, Ga 

In general ho.spitals 

In post hospitals 

In civil hospitals 



Aggregate- 29,517 



Cases. 



972 
, 150 
412 
267 
893 

a5;3 

,442 
,620 
75H 
279 
374 
226 
,a53 
39 
546 
91 
890 
,654 
519 
,4:30 
,800 
,013 
633 
,0;30 
231 
163 
4.58 
48 
123 
715 



Deaths. 



15 

2 

(; 

6 

2 

24 

25 

43 
2 
10 

36 
3 

12 
1 

116 
106 
46 
124 
30 
58 
10 
53 



2 

256 

47 

60 

1,122 



Very respectfully, 



Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-Oeneral, U. S. Army. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C. , October W, 1S9S. 
The President Commission on the Conduct of the War. 

Sir: The fifth question addressed to the Medical Department of the Army by 
the commission calls for statements as to general hospitals, their number, loca- 
tion, equipment, and management, and the number of patients and of deaths in each 
from April 1 to August 81, 1898. In reply I have the honor to submit as follows: 

Up to August 31 six general hospitals were established and fully manned and 
equipped. These had a capacity of 3,167 beds. At the same time there were in 
existence certain field hospitals which were practically general hospitals, and 
which, on September 3, 1898, were officially recognized as such. These were the 
Sternberg and Sanger field hospitals at Chickamauga Park, Ga., and the tentlios- 
pital at Ponce, Porto Rico. An extension of the post hospital accommodations at 
Washington Barracks, D. C, also received official recognition as a general hos- 
pital at the same time. Other post hospitals having good accommodations were 



65n INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

usetl for the treatment of army cases generally v/itliont alteration of their official 
statxis as jiost hospitals; those, for instance, at Forts Columbus, Hamilton, and 
Wadsworth, N. Y., in the East, and at the Presidio of San Francisco, Cal., and 
Vancouver Barracks, Wash., on the Pacific coast. These added 8,850 beds to the 
hospital accommodation, making an aggregate of over 7,000 beds. The vacant 
Ijeds in the hospital of the Marine-Hospital Service of the Treasury Department 
were placed at my disposal, and the civil hospitals of the country were ready, on 
call, to receive and care for sick and wounded soldiers. These offers of hospital 
accommodations and medical care were accepted by me in many instances, par- 
ticularly in New York. Boston, Philadelphia, and Providence, to relieve the tent 
hospitals at Montauk Point when crowded by the rapid transfer of sick from San- 
tiago. 

There was also in progress of construction near Fortress Monroe, Va., the 
Josiah Simpson Hospital, a pavilion hospital of 1,000 beds. Authority for the 
building and equipping of this establishment was granted by the Secretary of War 
on my application July 13, 1898, and the Quartermaster's Department promptly 
ma'^e the necessary arrangements for its construction. It was to consist of pavil- 
ion wards arranged rn echelon on the plans which gave the best satisfaction during 
tlie civil war, with an administration building, quarters for medical officers, hos- 
pital corps men, male and female nurses, etc., and buildings for kitchens, dining 
rooms, storerooms, laundry, chapel, crematory, workshops, etc., all connected by 
covered board walks and lighted by electricity. This hospital is now ready for 
the reception of patients. 

The general hospitals in service during the period covered by the inquiry of the 
commission were equipped with all the needful furniture and appliances, cots, 
bedding, clothing, medicines, hospital stores, and disinfectants. An experienced 
medical officer was assigned to the command of each; but the medical men on duty 
under this officer were as a rule surgeons under contract with this office, as it was 
impossible to provide commissioned medical officers to fill the positions at the 
general hospitals without weakening the medical service of the troops in the field. 
The purpose of the Medical Department was to have all the nursing and other work 
of the hospitals, including the clerical and dispensary work, done by trained mem- 
bers of the Hospital Corps; but the act approved April ;?3, 189S, providing for 
temporarily increasing the military establishment, failed to include Hospital Corps 
privates for the volunteer regiments. It was found impossible in the short time 
available to enlist and train in the Hospital Corps of the Regular Army enough 
men for hospital service with the volunteer forces. The trained men of the Hos- 
pital Corps were required to form the nuclei of ambulance and hospital companies 
for service in the field, so that few could be spared for the work of the general 
hospitals. This work was accomplished mainly by male and female nurses under 
contract. Many of the latter were Sisters of Charity. 

The six general hospitals may be briefly described as follows: 

1. Tlie Leiter Oeneral Hospital, Chickamauga, Get. — The building occupied is a 
summer hotel converted to hospital uses. It is a modern and apparently well-con- 
structed building, well furnished throvighout, heated by steam, and lighted by 
electricity. It is situated in 5 acres of ornamental gi-ound near Crawfish Springs, 
on a railroad direct from Chattanooga to Camp George H. Thomas. It is esti- 
mated to accommodate 175 patients, but cots for 30 convalescents have been 
placed in the verandas, and two wards of sixteen tents in all, with an occupancy 
of 80, have been established in the grounds. The total capacity is, therefore, 385 
beds. The water supply is pumped from Crawfish Springs into a distributing 
tank. The personnel of this hospital consists of 14 medical officers, 38 members 
of the Hospital Corps, and 34 female nurses. Its kitchens, including special diet, 
are reported as excellent. The hospital was established June 6, 1898, since which 
time to August 31 there have been 496 admissions and 71 deaths. 



REPLY OK SITKGE()N-(;ENERAL. 657 

2. General Hosjv'tal. Key West. Fla.— On April 20, 1S9S, the convent and two 
school buildings and grounds of the Sisters of ^lary Immaculate, Key West, Fla., 
were turned over by agreement to the Medical Department of the Army for use 
as a hospital during the war. Cots with Ijedding for 5l)U patients were immedi- 
ately forwarded and the surgeon in command was instructed to call for such sup- 
plies as were needful. The post hospital at Key West Barracks afforded many 
desirable facilities for the etitablishmL-nt of a general hospital at this place. 
Frame buildings were erected on the convent grounds for use as isolation wards, 
earth closets, etc. A pest house for the treatment of yellow fever and smallpox 
cases was established in connection with the general hospital. The number 
treated up to August 31, 1898, was 547; the number ol deaths, G. The personnel 
consisted of 7 medical officers, 34 members of the Hospital Corps, 9 contract 
nurses, 23 sisters of the convent, and 2'J employees— cooks, laborers, teamsters, etc. 

3. Oeneral Hospital, Fort McPIierson, Ga. — This hospital may be said to have 
been established May 14, 1898, when a train load of patients from Tampa, Fla., 
was received for treatment. Certain of the barrack buildings of the post were 
used in connection with the wards and offices of the post hospital. On June 20 
the accommodations were extended by the use of 35 hospital tents, and shortly 
afterwards 100 more tents were pitched on frames and floors for use. The num- 
ber of available beds for patients is 922. The general mess hall of the post is used 
as a dining hall for convalescents, hospital corps men, trained nurses, and 
employees. There are also 4 special-diet kitchens, which suffice for the needs of 
those seriously sick. The personnel consists of 14 medical officers, 3 stewards. 5 
acting stewards, and 112 privates of the hospital corps, with 2 hospital matrons, 
71 female nurses, and 92 other civilian employees, cooks, waiters, and laborers. 
Up to August 31, 1898, there were admitted into this hospital 1,244 patients, of 
whom .59 died. These were mostly derived from the camps at Tampa, Fla., but 
one train load was received from Chickamauga, Ga.. and two from Fernandina, 
Fla., with a number of cases from the large body of recruits, 2,000 to 3,.S00 men, 
aggregated at the post. 

4. Till' General Hospital at Fort Monroe, Va. — Orders were issued June 2() for 
the establishment of this hospital in connection with the post hospital of the fort. 
One hundred hospital tents, with cots and bedding for 5(l0 patients, were fur- 
nished by the Quartermaster's Department, and the surgeon in charge was directed 
to make requisition for other necessary supplies. The tents were pitched end on 
to each other in threes and fours, forming pavilion wards, with streets between. 
They were raised from 1 to 2 feet above the surface of the ground, floored, framed, 
and rafted, to give them stability, and connected with other parts of the hospital 
camp by a bt)ard walk. A frame building was erected for use as a kitchen and 
dining ball, the latter capable of seating 250 persons. Other buildings were con- 
stritcted for use as water-closets and bath houses, the latter furnished with hot 
and cold water. Water from the post supply was conducted to all parts of the 
camp and a condensing plant provided a sufficient supply of distilled water for 
drinking. All sewage was delivered by sewers into the mains of the sewerage 
system of the post. This hospital was strengthened by the conveniences of the 
post hospital, including, besides its wards, an operating room, laboratory, dispen- 
sary. X-ray room, offices, special diet kitclien, and storage rooms. 

The first patients were received July 13, 214 officers and men from the Citij of 
Washinyton, a transport from Santiago, Cuba. These were accommodated in the 
tent pavilions, but as the kitchen and mess-hall building was yet unfinished, Buz- 
zacott ovens, under tent flies, were used until July 18, when the hospital buildings 
were completed. This hospital received sick and wounded from the transports 
City of Washingtun, Breakimter, Solace. Hudson, Obclavi, and La)iq)asas, and 
from the camp at Newport News, Va. To August 31 tliere were admitted 978 
783o — VOL. 1 42 



658 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

cases, 25 of which terminated fatally. The medical force attached to the hospital 
con isted of 15 officers, ^ stewards, 4 acting stewards, and 94 privates of the hos- 
pital corps, and 43 female and It male contract nurses. 

5. General Hospital at Fort, Mi/er, Va. — On May i;], 1898, the Secretary of War 
approved my i-equest to utilize the vacant barrack buildings of Fort Myer, Va. , 
in connection with the i>ost hospital at that place as a general hospital. The 
buildings were speedily fitted up, and the hospital provided with ;ill needful sup- 
plies. One building had to be erected as a deadhouse. The riding hall of the 
post was floored and converted into a ward for 175 patients. At each end of the 
riding hall, but detached from it, two water-closets were constructed for the dis- 
infection and disposal of typhoid excreta. Water was brought into this hall, with 
two faucets at each end of the building for use in fillmg tubs for baths. The 
hospital kitchens were supplemented by a Red Cross special-diet kitchen. The 
capacity of this hospital is 54J, Up to August 31 the number of admissions 
amounted to 734, the deaths to 70. Most of the cases were derived from the 
Second Army Corps, at Camp Alger. Va. The personnel consisted of 18 medical 
men, 2 stewards, 9 acting stewards, 67 privates of the Hospital Corps. 49 female 
and 12 male contract nurses, and 28 laborers. 

6. General Hospital, Fort Thomas. Ky. — On April 27 1 requested authority to 
make use of the vacant barrack buildings at Fort Thomas, Ky., as a general hos- 
pital. This was granted, and I immediately sent 200 beds and bedding, with 
instructions to the surgeon in command to make use of the (luartermaster's bed- 
steads then in the barracks and to require for all the necessary personnel and sup- 
plies for active service in his hospital. The proposed establishment was intended 
as a reserve hospital, and patients were not sent to it until July 7. The num- 
ber of available beds was 416. The number of patients received up to August 31 
was 394. among whom there occurred 25 deaths. Ten medical men were on duty 
at this hospital, 1 steward, 3 acting stewards, G7 privates of the Hospital Corps, 33 
female and 3 male contract nurses. 

The post hospitals, which did duty as general hospitals during the period April 
1 to August 31, 1898. were chiefly six, although many others cared occasionally 
for sick and wounded men not members of the local garrison. The hospital build- 
ing at each of these posts is in excellent condition. It formed the administration 
biiilding of the extended hospital and provided commodious wards for cases of 
grave sickness. Fifty or more cots, bedding, etc., for 250 or more patients were 
sent to the surgeon in charge of each with orders to get in readiness for immediate 
service. These movements were instituted July 17-28. The tents were floored, 
framed, and pitched in pavilion wards and, prior to the reception of sick, the per- 
sonnel of the establishment was increased to meet the necessities of the case. 

At Washington Barracks, where the patients were mostly convalescents from 
the general hospital. Fort Monroe, Va., it was not at first needful to add to the 
niTuiber of medical officers nor to send any contract nurses, as the surgeon in 
charge had a hospital corps company of instruction to draw upon according to his 
needs. At Fort Hamilton, N. Y., on the other hand, where the cases came direct 
from Santiago, there were assigned to diity 5 medical men under contract, 1 stew: 
ard, 6 acting stewards, 24 hospital corj^s privates, and 4 male and 15 female con- 
tract nurses. Details made by the commanding officer from the trooj^s in garrison 
did the policing and other heavy work of the extemporized hospital. 

The appended tabulation summarizes the cases and deaths reported to August 
31, 1898, from the general hospitals and the post and civil hospitals. 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General, United States Arniy. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL 



659 



APPENDIX. 

General, post, and civil Itosjntals, caacs and deaths. April 1 to August 31, 1S98. 



Geuernl hoapitnls: 

Cliickamaiiga, Tonn. (Leitor <;onoral hospital). 

Key West, Fla 

jSIiPlierHOii, Foit, Ga 

Mouroo, Fort, A'a 

M.\ er. Fort, Va 

Thomas, F'ort, Ky 



Total 



Post hospitals : 

Washington Barracks, D. C 

Colunibus, Fort, N. Y 

Haiuiltou, ¥oTt, N.T 

Presidio oi' San Francisco, Cal 

Vancouver Barracks, "Wasliington. 

Wadswortli, Fort, New York 

Honolulu, Hawaiian Islands 



Cases. 



547 
1,244 
978 
734 
394 



4,393 



Total 



Civil hosjiitals : 

Charleston, S. C, City Hospital 

Charleston, St. F. X. feospital 

Key West, Marine nospital, Fla 

Mo'hile, Ala., Marine Hospital 

New Yorlc civil hospitals 

riiiladelpliia hosjutals 

San Fr:ineisco, Cal., Marine Hospital . 
Staplettm, N. iT., Marino Hospital 



665 
258 

78 
957 
240 
438 

54 



2,690 



118 

74 

5 

77 

1,084 

427 

100 

106 



Deaths. 



Total 1,991 

-A ggregate 9, 074 



60 



MEMORANDUM RELATING TO THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT. 



661 



MEDICAL DEPARTMENT. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October 6, 1S98. 
Gren. G. M. Dodge, 

President of Board to Investigate the War Department. 
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a memorandum relating to the 
Medical Department of the Army; subject, medical officers. 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General United States Ai-my. 



MEMORANDUM RELATING TO THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT 

MEDICAL OFFICERS. 

The number of medical officers allowed by law is inadequate in times of peace. 
The total number allowed is 192. There are at present 13 vacancies. The admin- 
istration of the Surgeon-General's Office and the Anny Medical Museum recpiires 
6. Eleven are on duty at medical supply depots and as chief surgeons of military 
departments. One is at the Soldiers' Home; 56 are at general hospitals, on hos- 
pital ships, and at garrisoned posts. Four have been disabled since the com- 
mencement of the war by sickness. Five are on duty as chief surgeons of army 
corps. This leaves 97 medical officers available for duty with troops in the field. 
Of these, 35 have been appointed brigade surgeons of volunteers and are distrib- 
uted among the various army corps. Since the declaration of war the loss by 
death has been 3, and 23 are now absent from duty on sick leave. 

This deficiency in regular medical officers has made it necessary to employ more 
than 650 contract surgeons. Most of these doctors from civil life are doing good 
service, and many of them are thoroughly well-equipped physicians and surgeons, 
with ample hospital experience; but it has been impossible to make a careful 
selection, owing to the gi-eat pressure of business in the Surgeon-General's Office, 
and the urgency has been so great that it has not been practicable to have exam- 
ining boards to pass upon their qualifications. I have endeavored, so far as pos- 
sible, to obtain satisfactory professional indorsement before making a contract 
with an applicant. The number of applications has been so great, and the per- 
sonal visits of applicants and their friends so numerous, as to constitute a serious 
embarrassment in conducting the business of my office. 

There have been appointed by the President 8 corps surgeons witli the rank of 
lieutenant-colonel, 24 division siirgeons \\^th the rank of major.* and 80 brigade 
sm-geons; also 3 medical officers for each of the regiments of United States vol- 
unteer infantry, cavalry, and engineers. All volunteer regiments have 3 medi- 
cal officers appointed by governors of States. 

The very small proportion of experienced medical officers has seriously impaired 
the efficiency of the Medical Department, but many of the division and brigade 
surgeons from civil life have shown gi-eat aptitude for the service and have 

* Sis of the corps surgeons, 2 of the division surgeons, and 35 brigade surgeons belon- to t li.- Medi- 
cal Corps of the Army. 

663 



664 INTESl'IGATION OP" CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

already become valuable medical ofiBcers. The same is true of many of the doc- 
tors employed under contract. 

Referring to the alleged deficiency of medical officers with the Fifth Ai-my 
Corps at Santiago, I would say that this corps, upon leaving Tampa, had with it 
36 regular medical officers, 15 commissioned volunteer medical officers, and 20 
contract doctors, a total of 71, or over 4 per thousand of the strength of the com- 
mand, which I am informed was about 16,000. Additional medical assistance 
was sent by the hospital ship Relief, which arrived at Siboney July 7 with 20 
doctors on board. There was also some volunteer assistance by Dr. Lesser, of 
the Red Cross Society; Dr. Rudberg of the Swedish navy; and several surgeons 
of the Navy from ships in the vicinity. 

It has not been the expectation of the Medical Department that every wounded 
man would immediately receive the attention of a surgeon. No modern army 
makes provision for so large a number of medical officers as this would reqiiire. 
But attached to our Army there is a corps ©f noncombatants known as the Hos- 
pital Corps, which is the organized and authorized Red Cross Corps of the Army. 
At the outbreak of the war we had 800 Hospital Corps men in service. At 
present there are more than 6,000. These men wear a brassard upon the left arm 
bearing the red cross of the Geneva Convention. We have done our best to 
instruct them in giving first aid to the wounded, and in a majority of cases a first- 
aid dressing properly applied by one of these men is all that is required. All of 
the surgeons who have come from the front have testified to the remarkable 
resiilts attained from the prompt application of aseptic dressings by our Hospital 
Corps men and by the soldiers themselves or their comrades. The proper appli- 
cation of the dressings contained in the fh'st-aid packet, 'which is carried by every 
soldier, is, under existing regulations, a matter in which every enlisted man has 
special instruction. For some time past this instruction has been given first by 
our medical officers to the company officers, and by them to the enlisted men. 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General United States Army. 

Surgeon-General's Office, October G, 1S9S. 

War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October 6, 189S. 
Sir: I have the honor to transmit here^vith the report of Col. Charles R. Green- 
leaf, assistant surgeon-general United States Army and chief surgeon army in the 
field, made at my request as a partial reply to the questions 10, 11, 12, and 13. 

I respectfully invite special attention to the following telegrams, as evidence of 
my earnest desire that our troops in the field should be pro\ided Avith all neces- 
sary supplies: 

[Cables from General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon United States troops in the field, 

Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

"August 8, 1898. 
"Relief sails for Ponce to-day. Do not send any sick on transports unless there 
is ample accommodation, medical stipplies, suitable diet, and competent medical 
attendance. Acknowledge receipt." 

"August 10, 1898. 
"Ocean voyage very trying for severe typhoid cases. Can't you establish gen- 
eral hospital at Ponce in suitable buildings? Call on me for all you need. Will 
send ho.spital tents by first transport. Will send money to your supply officer if 
you will telegraph his name. Acknowledge receipt." 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 665 

"Headquarters of the Arjiy, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

" Ponce, Porto Rico, August 18, 1898. 

" HUIDEKOPER, 

" Chief Surgeon, First Army Corps, Chiayama: 
"Plenty of cots and supplies here. Will send all I can with General Grant's 
hospital train that leaves here on Saturday. Shall I load entirely with cots? Can 
you send wagons here for stipplies? Do not learn anything aboiit cots from Mas- 
sachusetts. None on wharf. Wire daily your condition. 

"Greenleaf, Chief Surgeon." 

"Headquarters of the Army, Office op the Chief Surgeon, 

" Porto Rico, August 21, 1898. 
"Major Crile, Chief Surgeon, Utuado: 

" McGilliciiddy has reported and will be sent by rail and carriage to-day. Gen- 
eral Gilmore tells me that General Henry has full authority to move his command 
anywhere v/ithin the lines he may desire on accoimt of health. Use your discre- 
tion in sending Dr. Gross away. Ample medical supplies are here. Have filled 
requisition yoii sent. No means of getting it to you. Can yoii not send for it and 

any r medical supplies you require? 

" Greenleaf." 

[Cables from General Sternberg to Colonel Greenleaf, chief surgeon army in the field, Ponce, Porto Rico.] 

"August 26, 1898. 
" Do not fail to make timely requisition for everything needed for the care and 
comfort of the sick," 

"August 29, 1898. 
"If you need more money, let me know. Buy eveiy thing necessai-y for the 
care and comfort of the sick. Acknowledge receipt." 

[Cablegram.] 

Headquarters of the Army, Office of the Chief Surgeon, 

•'Ponce, Porto Rico, August 29, 1898. 
" Sternberg, Washington: 

'' Relief here, unloading supplies. Plenty of money for present use. Have 
arranged for timely renewal of supplies. Nothing leaves here except in good 
order. Field and hospital arrangements satisfactory, but nurses needed as cabled 
yesterday. Hixidekoper and Woodbury fully competent to manage affairs here. 

"Greenleaf." 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-Oeneral, United States Army. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge. 

President of Board to Investigate the War Department. 



REPORT RELATING TO THE HOSPITAL CORPS OF THE ARMY. 

PREPARED BY 

COL. CHARLES H. ALDEN. 



667 



HOSPITAL CORPS OF THE ARMY. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October IS, 1S98. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge, 

President of Board to Investigate War Department. 
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a report relating to the Hospital 
Corx^s of the Army, prepared by my direction by Col. Charles H. Alden. assistant 
surgeon-general, who has had charge of the Hospital Corps division cZ the 
Snrgeon-General's Office during the past five years. 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General United States Army. 



Hospital Corps Division, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington. October 13, ]S98. 
The Surgeon-General, United States Army. 

Sir: I have the honor, according to your instructions, to submit the following 
answers to the queries addressed by the commission of investigation into the 
operations of the Army in the war with Spain, so far as they relate to the Hospital 
Corps: 

Question 1. What was the organization of the Medical Department on April 1, 
1898? How many officers, with their rank; how many hospital stewards; and what 
was the size of the Hospital Corps? 

On April 1, 1898, there were in service 100 hospital stewards, the number 
fijxed by law, 103 acting hospital stewards, and 520 privates; a total of 723. The 
niimber of acting hospital stewards and privates was regiilated by the Secretary 
of War in accordance with the necessities of the service. The members of the 
Hospital Corps were scattered in detachments at the various posts throughout 
the United States, the number allowed at each garrison being fixed by Army 
Regulations, paragraphs 1409 to 1411. The following circular of information 
shows the requirements for enlistment as private and for promotion to the grades . 
of acting steward and steward, by which it will be seen that no private could be 
detailed an acting hospital steward except after one year's service as private and 
passing an examination successfully, and no acting steward could be appointed 
hospital steward except after one year's service as such and after passing success- 
fully the required examination. 

CIRCULAR of information FOR PERSONS DESIROUS OF ENLISTING IN THE HOSPITAL 
CORPS, UNITED STATES ARMY. 

The Hospital Corps consists of hospital stewards, acting hospital stewards, and 
privates. 

This corps offers good pay and at the same time gives a training which will be 
of great usefulness in civil life. If promotion is in view, it opens the way to one 
of the best i)ositions attainable by an enlisted man in the United States Army. 

All enlistments are for the grade of private, but provision is made f(^r the pro- 
motion of those who show themselves to be earnest, intelligent, capable, and 
trustworthy. 

669 



670 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

Original enlistments are confined to persons who are citizens of tlie United 
States, or who have made legal declaration of their intention to become citizens 
thereof. The term of service is three years. 

Applicants miist he between the ages of 21 and 30 years, immarried, of good 
character and habits, able-bodied, free from disease, not less than 5 feet 4 inches 
in height, and able to speak, read, and write the English language. Minor defects 
of vision that can be corrected by glasses are not regarded as a bar to enlistment. 

They must defray their own expenses to the place of enlistment, satisfy the 
recruiting officer regarding age and character, and be prepared to furnish evidence 
thereof. Their fitness for the military service can only be ascertained by examina- 
tion at a recruiting station or at a military post. 

Under the act of June 16, 1890, and existing rules prescribed by the President 
in accordance therewith, a man in his first enlistment, having served one year, 
may be accorded the privilege of purchasing his discharge at any time for several 
months thereafter upon payment of a stipulated sum. the maximum pui'chase 
price being $120. 

The following is the rate of pay as now established: 



Grade. 



First enlistment. 



Pay per 
month. 



Pay per 
year. 



Pay for 
three years. 



Hospital steward 

Acting hospital steward 
Private 



$45. 00 
25.00 
18.00 



$540. 00 
300. 00 
216. 00 



$1, 620. 00 
900. 00 
648.00 



In addition to the rates enumerated above, $1 per month is added during the 
third year of first enlistment. 

Members of the Hospital Corps reenlisting within thi-ee months from date of dis- 
charge receive a further increase of pay for the fourth and fifth years of service, 
and a still further increase for each five years of continuous service. They also 
receive from the Government (in addition to their i^ay) rations, clothing, bedding, 
medicines, and medical attendance. They can deposit their savings in sums not 
less than $5 with any Anny paymaster, and for sums so deposited for six months 
or longer interest at the rate of 4 per cent per annum will be paid on final dis- 
charge. These deposits are nonforfeitable, except for desertion. 

For those who have become infirm during twenty years' service, or who have been 
discharged for wounds received or sickness brought on in service, a comfortable 
home is maintained in the city of Washington. The sum of 12^ cents per month 
is deducted from each soldier's pay. to be applied toward the support of the Home. 
After thirty years' service enlisted men are entitled to be retired, and upon retire- 
ment to receive monthly three-foui-ths of the pay allowed to them by law in the 
grade they held when retired, with an allowance for clothing and subsistence. 

Furloughs to deserving men are granted during the term of enlistment when 
their services can be spared from their post of duty. 

When a man is honorably discharged at the expii-ation of his enlistment, or on 
account of sickness, his travel pay is ample to carry him to the place of enlist- 
ment. By care and economy he can save from his clothing allowance a consid- 
erable sum. payable to him on his discharge. 

The accepted candidate for enlistment is usually sent at first to a Hospital Corps 
school. He is there given the instruction that is needful to enable him to do his 
duty intelligently and to appreciate what are the requisites for promotion in the 
corps. When iiroperly qualified he is sent to some military station for duty. 

Privates who have served one year or more and who have displayed particular 
merit may be recommended to the Surgeon-General for examination with a view 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 671 

to detail as acting hospital steward. If graduates in phtirmacy they may not be 
required to serve the full yeiu- of probation. 

Under existing law promotion to a stewardship is not authorized until the can- 
didate has demonstrated his fitness for the position by one year of service as an 
acting hospital steward. His application must be approved by the surgeon of his 
post and by the post commander, and must bear satisfactory certification as to 
character, conduct, general fitness, and habits, particularly in regard to the use 
of stimulants and narcotics. Successful candidates examined at or about the 
same time take precedence for appointment, so far as practicable, in the order of 
relative merit as shown by the results of their examination. 

Applications for enlistment, accompanied by testimonials as to character, phys- 
ical soundness, and special knowledge as of pharmacy, cookery, mechanics, etc., 
should be addressed to " The Surgeon-General, United States Army, Washington, 
D. C." (who authorizes enlistments); or candidates may apply in person to any 
recruiting officer of the Army, or preferably to the medical officer at any military 
post or station. 

GrEo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General United States Army. 

War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, June 23, 1S97. 

In order to train the men for the hospital corps for their duties, there was a 
special school of instniction established at Washington Barracks, to which all 
recruits for the Hospital Corps enlisted in the Eastern portion of our country 
were sent for training from four to six months before being sent to a military 
post. To meet the necessity for instruction in the West, small detachments were 
stationed for instriTction at the principal military posts at each of the several 
Western departments: Fort Sheridan, 111.; Fort Leavenworth, Kans.: Fort Snel- 
ling, Minn.; Fort Crook, Nebr.; Vancouver Barracks, Wash.; Presidio of San 
Francisco, Cal.; Fort Logan. Colo.; and Fort Sam Houston, Tex. Men were 
drafted from these detachments when needed at posts in the departments to which 
they were attached. At these schools of instruction the men were trained in 
nursing, first aid, litter and ambulance drill, cooking, to assist the surgeon in 
operations, and in the elements of pharmacy and hygiene. 

Question 8. An army of what size was the department able to completely fit 
oiTt with * * * stewards and hospital corps? * * * 

The hospital corps, of the strength above mentioned, was designed for service 
with troops stationed in garrisons, which was the condition of the Army before 
the declaration of war, and was sufficient. It was insufficient for the Army if 
mobilized for active field service, especially as to hospital stewards, of which the 
number— 100— was fixed by law. It was possible to increase the number of 
acting stewards and privates as the needs of the service required. 

Question 4. Between April 1 and August 31, 1898, what steps were taken for 
fully supplying an army of 350,000 men with all the necessary * * * stewards, 
hospital corps? * * * 

Immediately upon the declaration of war and the call by the President for 
125,000 men, the necessity for additional stewards and privates of the Hospital 
Corps was recognized, and on April 35, 1898, the Surgeon-General addressed the 
Secretary of War as follows: 

" By the act of Congi-ess, approved March 16, 1898, the number of hospital stew- 
ards of the Hospital Corps, United States Army, which up to that time had been 
restricted only by the needs of the service were reduced to 100. I have the honor 
ncnv to request that this restriction be reinoved in view of the increase of military 
posts and the necessity of additional hospital stewards in the field." 



672 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

An act removing this restriction, as reqnestecl, was introduced, but did not seem 
to meet with favor, as it was proposed to limit the increase to 100. 

On the 26th of April, the Surgeon-General addressed the following letter to the 
Hon. J. R. Hawley, of the United States Senate, chairman of the Military Com- 
mittee of the Senate: 

••Dear Sir: Referring to the House amendment to Senate bill 4556, 1 would 
respectfully state the limitation of the increase of hospital stewards to 100 may 
lead to embarrassment and may call for additional legislation in future, especially 
in view of the second call for 75.000 volunteers. We will no doubt have to estab- 
lish numerous general hospitals if the war is protracted (it is at present impossible 
to say Just how many hospitals may be actually required) ; the limitation thereof 
appears to me to be very injudicious and unnecessary." 

In order to pro\'ide for members of the Hospital Corps for the Volunteer Army 
called out by the President, the Surgeon-General addressed the following com- 
munication to the Secretary of "War: ,,.,„, 

April 24, 1898. 

To the Honorable Secretary of War, Washington City. 

Sir: Referring to the call by the President of the United States for 125,000 vol- 
unteers, I have the honor to make the following recommendation: I recommend 
that for each regiment of volunteer infantry or cavalry mustered into the service 
of the United States there be enlisted the following members of the Hospital 
Corps: One hospital steward. 1 acting hospital steward, and 25 privates. For 
each battery of artillery, 1 hospital steward and 5 privates; also, that for each 
division of the Ai-my there be enlisted, in addition to the above, 1 hospital stew- 
ard, 1 acting hospital steward, and 50 privates of the Hospital Corps, to serve 
under the direction of the chief surgeon of the division. These men. in accord- 
ance with the Geneva Convention, will be noncombatants. and will wear the arm 
badge bearing a red cross on a white ground, prescribed by article 7. 

Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General, U. S. Army. 

This recommendation was not favorably considered by Congress, and no action 
was taken for a volunteer hospital corps. In \4ew of this want of action on the 
part of Congress, the following letter was addi-essed by the Surgeon-General to 
the Adjutant-General of the Army: 

Washington, D. C May is, 1S9S. 

To the Adjutant-General of the Army, Washington City. 

Sir: As no provision was made for a hospital corps in the act authorizing the 
enlistment of volunteers, it becomes necessary to provide the necessary number 
of hospital corps privates for ser\'ice ^vith the Volunteer Army by increasing the 
Hospital Corps of the Regular Army. This can be done under existing laws. I 
am informed that many men who formerly served in the National Guard as 
members of the hospital corps have enlisted in the volunteer regiments because 
there was no authority for the muster into the service of a volunteer hospital 
coi-ps. In \dew of this fact, I have the honor to recoimnend that transfers of 
enlisted men from the volunteer regiments to the Hospital Corps may be author- 
ized, and that division commanders may have authority to direct such transfers 
upon the recommendation of the chief surgeon; the men so transferred to be 
assigned to duty with the regiment belonging to the command with the division 
hospital, or wherever their services may be required. The Judge-Advocate- 
General of the Army has rendered an opinion favorable to such action in an 
indorsement dated May 16. 1898, which is as follows: 

"Respectfully returned to the Adjutant-General. 

"This is a question as to whether an enlisted man in the volunteer branch of 
the Army may be transferred to the Hospital Corps. It would seem that such 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. fi73 

transfer may be held to be authorized by the act of March 1. 1897, creating the 
hospital corps, which provided that any enlisted man in the Army shall be eligible 
to transfer to the Hospital Corps as a private. 

"Norman Lieber, Jmlgc-Advocafe-General." 
Yery resioectiully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General, U. S. Army. 

On May 31, 1898, in General Orders. No. r)S. Headquarters of the Army, the 
decision just refeiTed to, together with additional in-o visions of regulations for 
the Hospital Corps in time of war and in the field, were published in accordance 
with the reqiiest of the Surgeon-General. His letter is omitted, but a copy of the 
general order referred to is given below: 

General Orders, \ Headquarters of the Army, 

> Adjutant-General's Office, 

No. .58. ) Washington, May 31. lS:_is. 

I. By direction of the Secretary of War, the following is published to the Army 
for the information and guidance of all concerned: 

Enlisted men of the volunteer organizations may be transferred to the Hospital 
Corps of the Regular Army by the commanding general of the army corps in 
which the soldier is serving, upon the recommendation of the chief surgeon of 
the corps. 

The provisions of Army Regulations governing the .Hospital Corjis so far as 
they are inapplicable in time of war and with troops in the field are hereby 
suspended during the existence of such conditions. 

The commander of an army corps, or of a division or brigade acting independ- 
ently of a corps, is charged with the full control of the transfer from the line, 
the enlistment, reenlistment, and discharge of members of the hospital corps 
of his command, with the detail of acting hospital stewards, and the appointment 
of hospital stewards. 

Acting hospital stewards will be detailed from jn-ivates of the Hospital Corps 
who are recommended by their medical officers as possessing the necessary quali- 
fications. Hosi>ital stewards will be appointed from acting hospital stewards 
- who are recommended Ijy their medical officers and who have served not less than 
three .nonths in the Hospital Corps and are approved by a board of not less 
than three medical officers. 

Enlistment jiapers in duplicate, examination forms, and outline figure cards for 
members of the Hospital Corps will be forwarded to the Surgeon-General's Office, 
as now re(iuired, and monthly reports will be made by the chief surgeon of the 
corps, or division if acting independently, showing the number of stewards, act- 
ing stewards, and privates on duty, the names of men transferred from the line, 
of those eidisted or reenlisted, discharged, died, detailed acting hospital steward, 
or appointed hospital steward. 

The quota of members of the Hospital Corps for a corps of 25,000 men is: 



For cacli roginient of infantry -_ 

For carli artillery battalion, three light batteriea 

Foi' earh reuimcnt of eavalry 

l''(ir rach ior|i.s lioadnnarters 

For each division lieailqiiartera 

iMireaeli lirijiado headquarters 

I'or each division ambulance company and for the reserve corps com- 
pany - 

For eiich division tiekl hospital and for the reserve corps field hospital. 

7833— VOL. 1 43 



Hospital ^^, 
stewards. .,,,.„'„„.,., 



stewards. 



I'rivates. 



1 
I 
3 
2 
1 
1 

104 
90 



674 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

The three vohmteer hospital stewartls mustered in with each regiment are 
included in this strength. 

The corps commander may make such distribution of the members of the Hos- 
pital Corps within his command as he considers for the best interests of the 
service. 

II. By direction of the Secretary of War, when recruits of the Hospital Corps 
are sent to posts or stations, recruiting officers will forward in each case the 
descriptive and assignment card required by army regulation 850 for the line of 
the Army. 

By command of Major-General Miles: 

H. C. COKBIN, ^'UJjutant-General. 

At once on the declaration of war, measures were taken to increase the Hospital 
Corps by direct enlistments as rapidly as possible. Circulars of information, 
posters, giving the rates of pay, etc., were sent out to the recruiting officers and 
medical officers; and corresix)ndenG« was entered into with superintendents of 
hospitals and medical men in many localities to enlist their aid in obtaining suit- 
able men for the Hospital Corps. It being evident that it would be impossible to 
obtain enough Hospital Corps men by general enlistment in this way for the needs 
of the whole Army, regular and volunteer, the Surgeon-General, on May 14, 1898, 
wrote to the Adjutant-General of the Army as follows: 

"Sir: I have the honor to request that instructions be sent to each officer charged 
with the muster in of volunteer regiments to enlist, in accordance with existing 
regulations, desirable men who are approved by the medical officer for the Hospital 
Corps, United States Army, at the rate of 15 privates for each regiment and 5 for 
each battalion and battery. Further, that orders may be given that these men 
accompany the regiments to their future destinations. It does not seem to be 
clearly understood in some States that 3 hospital stewards are allowed to be mus- 
tered in with each volunteer regiment, and I would suggest that this provision 
be communicated to the mustering officer also." 

Action was taken in accordance with the Surgeon-General's request. Special 
efforts were made to obtain recruits for the Hospital Corps among men who had 
had experience as nurses in civil hospitals, but it was found that no considerable 
number could be obtained. Cooks, mechanics, and men who were used to the 
care of animals were also sought for. Among the men offering themselves were 
physicians, medical students, and pharmacists, many of whom were enlisted. 

Question 9. What number of * * * hospital stewards, nurses, attendants, 
etc., were employed between April 1 and August 31, in addition to those in the 
service of the United States on April 1, 1898? 

Men obtained by general enlistment at the recruiting stations were sent at once 
to the hospital school of instruction at Washington Barracks, D. C, and were 
given such training as the limited time at disposal allowed. Unfortunately, the 
demands of the service in the field were so great that it was impossible to give 
extended instruction, and in many cases men were sent direct from the recruiting 
stations to their duties in the field. It has been impracticable to obtain full and 
complete records of the Hospital Corps of men enlisted in the various parts of 
this extended country. It appears from the records of this office, on August 31 
there were in service 176 stewards, 250 acting stewards, and 4,939 privates; total, 
5,365. It is certain, however, that a largely increased niTmber must have been in 
service at that date. Owing to the failure of officers to report enlistments to this 
office, the exact number can not be given. 

Question 11. Were the armies operating in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philip- 
pines fully supplied with efficient * * * stewards and Hospital Corps? * * * 
The army under connnand of General Shatter (Fifth Army Corps) was largely 
made up of regiments taken from the Regular Army, who had with them, in 



KEPLY OF sukgeo!n-general. 675 

accordance with orders, nearly all of the hospital stewards and privates of the 
Hospital Corps from their posts. Only enough stewards and privates were left to 
take care of the hospital and hospital property at the scattered stations. Some 
of the old stewards also were too infirm to take active service in the field, although 
still able to do duty at a military post. So far as information can be obtained, 
when the Fifth Army Corps left Florida for Cuba it took with it 18 stewards, 25 
acting stewards, and 207 privates of the Hospital Corps. 

Under the Operations of General Order No. 58, Headquarters of the Army, May 
31, 1898, already refeiTed to, the hospital corps of each army corps was recruited 
partly by transfers from the line and partly by direct enlistment; and in most 
cases the number of men obtained was nearly equal to the number fixed by that 
order. They were enlisted, however, without very much training for nursing, 
but there was ample opportunity for their being trained in first aid and hospital 
corps drill by the medical officers, under whose direction they served, and the 
prevalence of disease in many of the camps afforded an opportunity for their 
securing training in nursing, which they needed. 

Referring to the hospital corps with the expeditions sent to the Philippine 
Islands, stewards and acting stewards were sent from Washington Barracks and 
Eastern stations— all that could be spared. Direct enlistments of privates were 
made chiefly at San Francisco and other points on the Pacific Coast, as well as 
transfers from the line, to make up the necessary number of hospital corps men. 
It is understood from the reports of the chief surgeons of the Philippine and 
Manila expeditions that they were quite adequately supplied. 

It became evident as soon as malarial and typhoid fevers commenced to prevail 
among the troops that it would be impracticable to take proper care of the sick 
with only the hospital corps men and the male nurses that could be employed. 
Attention is invited to the report in regard to the employment of female trained 
nurses, whose aid has been indispensable in this emergency. Not less than 5,000 
additional hospital corps men were employed between April and August 31 in 
addition to those in the Army on April 1, 1898. 

Question 15. How were the hospital stewards, nurses, and attendants selected? 

Under the regulations (see General Order, No. 58, before referred to) hospital 
stewards were appointed from acting hospital stewards who had at least three 
months" service in the grade of private and acting hospital steward. They were 
examined by a board of at least three medical officers and had to pass a success- 
ful examination before recommendation for appointment was made. Acting 
hospital stewards were detailed upon the recommendation of the medical officer 
under whom they were serving in the grade of private. Nurses and attendants 
were selected by the recruiting officers and army surgeons acting as such upon 
instructions from this office to the effect that "great care should be taken that 
the men accepted are in your judgment fit for the performance of duty for which 
they are enlisted. " Attention was invited to the requirements of regulations bear- 
ing upon this subject — existing regulations as to age and general (lualifications 
of recruits were to govern in the acceptance of suitable men. They were par- 
ticularly instriicted not to complete any enlistment iinless they were perfectly 
satisfied that the applicant possessed all of the recpiirements needed for the special 
service. 

Very respectfully, • C. H. Alden, 

Assistant Surgeon-General, U. S. Army, 



REPORT RELATING TO THE MEDICAL SUPPLIES OF THE MEDICAL 
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY. 



G77 



MEDICAL SUPPLIES. 



LIST OP INCLOSUKES, 

1. Letter of Surgeon-General U. S. Army, transmitting report of the operations 
of the Medical Department of the Army as regards medical supplies. 

2. Answers to questions 3, 3, and 4, respecting supply division. Medical Depart- 
ment, ambulances, litters, etc. 

3. Pamphlet shounng field supply table. Medical Department, U. S. Army. 

4. Circiilar No. 6, from Surgeon-General's Office, relating to the ordering of 
medical sxipplies. 

5. List of supplies sent to the army at Tampa. Fla. 

6. List of supplies furnished hospital ship Relief, leaving New York City July 
3, 1898. 

7. Letters of Deputy Surg. Gen. J. V. D. Middleton respecting medical supplies 
for the Philippine expedition. 

8. Letter of September 13, 1898, from W. C. M. Clay, editor New York Sun, 
evening edition, to President McKinley, referring to conditions at Santiago, fol- 
lowed by reply of General Lawton, commanding ait Santiago; also report of 
Edward L. Munson, captain and assistant surgeon. U. S. Army, commanding 
Reserve Ambulance Corps, as to service at Santiago; also letters from Chief 
Surgeon Hysell. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, Surg. E. T. Comegys, and extracts from 
Brigadier-General Coppinger and chief surgeon, Colonel Maus. 

9. Memoranda showing date as to hospital stewards, etc. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October 11, 189S. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge, 

President Board to Investigate the War Department. 
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a report with reference to the oper- 
ations of the Medical Department of the Army as regards medical supplies. This 
report is made by Col. Charles H. Alden. Assistant Surgeon-General, U. S. Army, 
who has been in charge of the supply division of this office during the past five 

years. 

The temporary deficiency in medical supplies at Santiago is fully accounted for 
by the fact that some of the supplies of the Fifth Army Corps were left at Tampa, 
and owing to the rapidity with which the troops were disembarked at Siboney 
and pushed to the front a considerable (piantity of the supplies taken were left 
up<m the transports. This is shown by the letter of Capt. Edward L. Munson, 
assistant surgeon, U. S. Army, attached to Colonel Alden's report, and also by 
the following extracts from the report of Lieutenant-Colonel Pope, chief surgeon, 
Fifth Army Corps: 

'• Three days prior to the order of embarkation, which was given on the night of 
June 8, I directed Capt. C. M. Gandy, assistant surgeon, the acting medical sup- 
ply officer at Tampa, Fla., to set aside one-half of all the medicines and surgical 
supplies remaining in the storehouses to be taken as a reserve upon the head(piar- 
ters- ship, the Sequranca. under my own charge. At the time the order was given 
^ 679 



680 INVESTKtATION of CONDITCT of war AVITH SPAIN, 

supplies were beginning to be iinloaded from th^ trains by the qiiarterniaster's 
department, and issues wei-e made to regimental surgeons of both volunteer 
and regular organizations of such articles as were needed. The reserve was not 
large and was gotten oiit of the storehouse by myself and two hospital-corps 
men at midnight of the 8th and put upon the train which left for Port Tampa 
at 2.30 a. m. of the 9tli. There were two wagonloads taken that night and Cai> 
tain Gandy sent two more on the following morning. Among this lot of medi- 
cines there was, fortunately, a large amount of quinine, two barrels in all, and 
other material, and three sets of surgical chests, and sterilizer. The medicines 
received on the morning of the 9th were ultimately placed on the steamer Olwette, 
where they were much needed. 

' • My reason for taking only one-half the amount of supplies in the storehouses 
was that volunteer regiments were continually arriving at Tampa, and I felt cer- 
tain that they would need everji:hing that I could spare, as these troops were 
usually destitute of ever>i;hing. 

••Medical and surgical chests, with which the regular regiments were in nearly 
every instance provided, were, in the hurry of departxire, unfortiTnately left on the 
transports, together with all ex^ra medical su^jplies. A few medical officers took 
their chests with them only to abandon them -within the first mile of the march, 
leaving them to be afterwards picked up by passing wagons or ambulances." 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October 10, 189S. 
The Surgeon-General of the Army. 

Sir: I have the honor to siibmit the following report containing answers to the 
questions of the committee of investigation into the operations of the War 
Department during the war wnth Spain, so far as they relate to the siipply divi- 
sion, which is under my charge: 

Question 2. How many ambulances and litters were available April 1 . 1898? 

At this date there were on hand at military stations 109 ambulances and 790 
litters. In addition, the Quartermaster's Department had at depots 96 ambii- 
lances, and each battery, troop, and company was supposed to have 2 litters each, 
though it is probable many of these were of old patterns, and possibly some 
organizations were not supplied. 

QiTestion 3. An army of what size was the War Department able to completely 
fit ovit with medical officers, stewards, and hospital corps, and necessary surgical 
instruments, and supplies of every character"? 

The authorized strength of the Army April 1. 1898, was a little over 28,000 offi- 
cers and men. This force was stationed as garrisons at military posts, and while 
the supplies furnished were more especially adapted to the medical wants of 
troops serving under such conditions there was ample provision for field service, 
especially at posts where active service against Indians or riot duty was possible. 
Fiirther than this, it is believed the medical supplies of every character that were 
available were sufficient for the then existing Army for any duty, though, neces- 
sarily, additions would have to be made in mobilizing it into an army for foreign 
service. 

Question 4. Between April 1 and August 31, 1898. what steps were taken for 
fully suppH-ing an army of 250,000 men with all necessary surgeons, stewards, 
hospital-corps ambulances, litters, surgical instruments, and medical supplies of 
all and every character"? 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERATi. G81 

My reply to this question relates only to medical supplies, and naturally divides 
itself into the general measures taken at the Surgeon-General's Office and those 
carried out at the several supply depots and camps. 

Up to the time that war was declared it was not practicable to take any imme- 
diate steps to obtain supplies, as it was not known until that date that the troops 
WDuld actually be called out, nor were there funds available from which to make 
purchases. But already, before Ajiril 1 , in view of the possibility of future needs, 
orders were given to have the field medical outfits, medical and surgical chests, 
instruments, etc., at the supply depots piit in order for issue in case of need, and 
early in March the preparation of a new pattern medical and surgical chests was 
begun so as to have them ready for manufacture immediately upon necessity 
arising. 

Immediately upon information l)eing received that orders were about to issue 
from the Adjutant-General's Office directing the regular regiments to leave their 
western stations and concentrate in camps at Chickamauga and elsewhere the 
following recommendation was made to the Adjutant-General, under date of 
April 15: 

'•Each regiment to take 2 ambulances, 4 extra litters, a field hospital for jlO 
men, medical and surgical chests, field supplies for three months. 

" Infantry regiments to have a steward or acting steward and 10 privates of 
H(5spital Corps. 

'• Cavalry regiments to have 3 stewards or acting stewards and 15 hospital corps 
men. 

"A light battery to have 1 ambulance, field hospital for 5 men (1 hospital tent), 
an acting steward, and 5 privates of the hospital corps." 

Immediately upon the declaration of war, April 31, steps were taken to obtain 
medical supplies for the new Volunteer Army. For the more important articles 
and those of highest cost, bids were invited at short notice — such, for instance, as 
medical and surgical chests, litters and slings, field operating cases, surgeons' field 
cases, pocket cases, orderly and hospital-corps pouches, etc. — orders were given, 
and the manufacture expedited with the utmost dispatch. Reqtiests for proposals 
for the usual spring iDurchases had been made in March, but to obtain medicines 
and other additional supplies in view of a state of war, advantage was taken of 
the authority granted by act of Congress and purchases were made in ojjcn 
market, the interests of the Government being guarded by obtaining informal 
l)ids when the amount needed was large and time permitted. 
■ ( )n May 8, foreseeing that it would be imiiossible to have ready for issue to the 
volunteer regiments as soon as they were mustered in the medical and surgical 
chests above referred to, as well as other articles of field equii)ment, as it would 
necessarily take some time to iirepare them, though their preparation was pushed 
with the utmost dispatch, the Surgeon-General sent the following telegram to the 
governors of the several States: 

' Surqeon-Generai/s Office, 

WashingioH, May 3, 189S. 
Governor of Massachusetts, Boaton, 3[aNs.: 

Please authorize the use by the medical department of vobmteer troops from 
yoiir State of the field medical equipment of yoiir National Guard. These will 
be returned when our supplies ordered are ready for issue. Answer. 

Sternberg, Surgeov-Geneml. 

Most of the governors of the States who had field equipment responded 
promptly and satisfactorily; but, unfortunately, many of the State medical 
departments had no such equipment. These deficiencies were supplied by the 



682 INVESTiriATION OF fOTs^OT^f^T OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

issue of the aclvanee field regimental outfits referred to hereafter. Most of the 
State field medical equipments so loaned have been, or probably will be, event- 
ually paid for by the United States. 

When it became evident what the size of the Ariny wonld be, the ofl&cers in 
charge of th« medical supply depots in New York and St. Louis were directed to 
keep in stock or make arrangements so that supplies cotild be immediately 
obtained for 100.000 men for six months. 

The supply table piiblished in the Manual for the Medical Department in 1896 
gives allowance of medical supplies for troops located in gari-isons, and was inap- 
projjriate, consequently, for the troops in the field. A field supply table was 
prepared and approved by the Secretary of War. May 9, 1898. This supply table 
gives the contents of the medical and surgical chests, of the Hospital Corps and 
orderly ijouches, field operating, surgeons' field and iiocket cases, mess chest, 
food chest, field desk, and gives the allowance of medicines and disinfectants, 
hospital stores, stationery, furniture, bedding, clothing, and miscellaileoits articles 
for a brigade or division field hospital and for division ambulance train. A copy 
of the field supply table is appended, marked ■■A." 

An examination of this field supply table will show that it was arranged with 
special reference to the needs of troops in active service, on the march, and in 
battle, and is in accordance with the advanced requirements of modern surgery 
and medicine. 

This field supply table was intended to provide for the allowance for commands 
in active service and where only a limited supialy of articles could be taken owing 
to the necessity of restricting transportation. As soon as it was evident that the 
troops were likely to be retained in camps of instruction, notification was given 
that it was not expected that the provisions of the field supply table should apply, 
and that articles on the regular supply table could be obtained. On Augiist 12, 
in circular No. 6, from this office (copy ajipended marked "B'"), attention was 
again invited to this matter, and cheif surgeons of Army coi'jis, of divisif)ns, and of 
smaller commands were enjoined to make timely requisitit^n for supplies, by 
telegraph if necessary, and that division and field hospitals in whicli typhoid 
fever and other serious cases were treated should lie liberally supplied with all 
articles necessary for the treatment and comfort of the sick. 

The medical and surgical chests in use up to the outbreak of the war were 
issued m 1891, remodeled in 1895, and were in the hands of the regular regiments. 
They were serviceable, but a<lvantage was taken of preparing a new supply for 
the increased Army, to make them more efficient and more thoroiighly in accord- 
ance with modern practice. The patterns of these new medical and stirgical 
chests were prepared in this office under the immediate supervisiOii of the Surgeon- 
General of the Army, and the chests for issue were put up at the Army Medical 
Museum in the city of Washing-ton. This was done, not only to obtain them 
more satisfactorily and more promptly, but in order to i^elieve the supply depots 
of this work. 

New patterns for the field oijerating case had been already fixed upon in the fall 
of 1897. 

New forms of surgical dressings, especially designed for field use, composed of 
sterilized gauze, sublimated and iodoform; sterilized gauze bandages, absorbent 
cotton, catgut and silk, sterilized and packed in convenient envelojjes; tow, com- 
pressed cotton sponges, and plaster of paris bandages were prepared under the 
immediate direction of this office. Samples of these were supplied to the three 
supply depots — New York, St. Louis, and San Francisco — and all issues directed 
to be in conformity thereA\'ith. 

Forty boxes of these specially prepared dressings were put up at the temporary 



REPLY OF SURGEON-OENRIiAI. 683 

supply depot, Army Medical Musenm, Washington. D. C, and sent to Tampa, 
Fla. , for the use of the army about to sail for Cuba. The following is the list of 
contents: 

1 Schering's formaldehyde sterilizer, lamp and G boxes pastels. 
4 pairs rubber gloves. 

2 rubber aprons, 38-inch. 

2 dozen finger cots, assorted sizes, 

2 pounds green soap. 

4 Halstead's rubber cylinders. 
300 gaiize bandages (3 sizes). 
300 packages sublimated gauze, 1 meter long. 
150 ounces absorbent cotton, in 1-ounce jiackages. 
50 packages iodoform gauze, i meter long. 
150 packages catgut ligatures (3 sizes). 
150 packages silk ligatures (3 sizes). 

2 rubber irrigating bags. 
24 dozen compressed cotton sponges (Burney's), large size. 

In order to provide temporarily for vohxnteer regiments organized and ordered 
to camps before the new medical and surgical chests were ready for issue, sup- 
plies of medicines, instruments, hospital stores, stationery, and miscellaneous 
articles, .according to a prescribed list and packed in convenient boxes, were pre- 
pared at the supply depots. 

An important article to be provided was the first-aid packet, containing anti- 
septic dressing for immediate Tise in emergencies and intended to be carried by 
each individxial soldier. These were promptly and lil»erally supplied. 

Whenever notice was received from the Adjiatant-General's Office that move- 
ment of troops or formation of camps had been ordered, the Surgeon-G-eneral 
anticipated their wants according to his best judgment, telegraphing to the officer 
in charge of the nearest supply depot to forward supplies for the necessary num- 
ber of men according to the field-supply table. 

Requests for supplies from medical officers and orders based thereon for sup 
plies sent to the several suijply depots have been largely by telegraph, and orders 
have been given that the supplies shoxild be forwarded by express from the depots 
when they were needed promptly. Whenever the medical officer reqiiested 
authority to purchase medical and other supplies for use in immediate emergen- 
cies, it has always been granted. 

Extensive purchases of medical sufjplies have been made direct from this office 
from dealers in Washington. Baltimore, and Philadelphia to provide for the 
immediate wants of the troops at Camp Alger, Va., and the general hospitals at 
Fort Myer, Va., Washington Barracks, D. C, and Fort Monroe, Va. This course 
was taken not only to meet urgent needs of troops and hospitals in this vicinity 
more promptly, biit to relieve somewhat the great pressiire upon the medical 
supply depot at New York. 

In addition to the field sujjply table already referred to, issued May 9, 1898, a 
revised edition of the Manual for the Medical Department was published. These, 
together with 2,400 coijies of a revised edition of Lieutenant-Colonel Smart's 
Handbook for the Hospital Corps, were freely distribxited tliroughout the Army, 
io that medical officers might become ac(iuainted with the proper mode of obtain- 
ing supplies and their other many important duties. 

It is impossible to give a complete list of medical supplies that have been sup- 
plied, no complete report of piirchases from the medical supply depots being at 



684 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

this time obtainable, but the following will give some idea of the amounts of the 
principal articles: 

First-aid packets number _ _ 272. 000 

Hospital Corps pouches. _ _ do 5. 797 

Orderly pouches do 509 

Pocket cases do 962 

Surgeons" field cases do 369 

Field operating cases do 328 

Medical and surgical chests do 1 , 204 

Litters do 2, 250 

Litter slings do 7, 600 

Cots and bedsteads, with bedding do 18, 185 

Blankets, gray do 23,950 

Field desks do 440 

Quinine pills do.:.^ 7,500,000 

Chloroform and ether bottles. _ 13, 220 

Gauze, sublimated, 1-meter packages packages. _ 100, 625 

Gauze bandages, 3 sizes number. _ 331, 776 

There are three permanent medical supply depots, in charge of the following 
officers: Col. J. P. Wright, Assistant Surgeon-General, United States Army, St. 
Louis, Mo.; Lieut. Col. J. M. Brown, Deputy Surgeon-General, United States 
Army. New York City; and Lieut. Col. J. V. D. Middleton, Deputy Surgeon- 
General, United States Army, San Francisco, Cal. These officers were charged 
with the purchase of siipplies except those ordered direct from this office to sup- 
ply needs in this vicinity, as already indicated. Each depot supplies the portion 
of country contiguous to it. The depot in New York supplies the posts in 
New England, the Middle States, and along the Atlantic coast, including Florida, 
and troops that have been sent to and are now serving in Ciiba and Porto Rico. 
Ordinarily requisitions received from officers serving in the district supplied from 
the New York depot are acted on and sent by the next mail to the depot for issue, 
but owing to the rapid movement of troops and the necessity for prompt action, 
many reipiisitions have been made by telegraph, and telegraphic orders have 
been issiied to the officer in charge of depot directing immediate action. When- 
ever there was urgency in the demand, and always for some time past, it has 
been ordered that medicines, hospital stores, and the less bulky articles asked for 
be sent by express, leaving the furniture, bedding, and such articles, as a rule, to 
be sent by fast freight. In many cases, however, where the necessity for cots 
and bedding was urgent, these also have been expressed. 

When Camp Wikoff, Montauk Point, was about to be established, there being 
great necessity for prompt action, the officer charged with the medical affairs at 
Montauk Point being one of experience and discretion, he was given authority to 
draw on the medical supply depot. New York City, for any articles that he deemed 
necessary for the care of the sick at Camp Wikoff, and in any qtiantity. and the 
siTpply officer at New York was ordered to honor all his recpiisitions without 
obtaining special authority from this office. 

The pressure on the supply depot at New York City has been extremely great, 
and there have necessarily been delays in putting wp some requisitions, but it i& 
believed that no serious inconvenience has resulted. The officer in charge was 
authorized to increase his working force and to secure additional room. 

In addition to the expeditions that have been sent to Cuba and Porto Rico, the 
large camps at Falls Church, Va.; Middletown, Pa.; Hempstead and Montauk 
Point. N. Y. ; Jacksonville, Fernandina, and Miami, Fla. , have been supplied from 
the New York depot. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-(ii:NERAL G85 

The medical supply depot, St. Louis, supplies tlie States extending along the 
Mississippi Valley and region east of the Rocky Mountains, including Texas. The 
large camp at Chickamauga was supplied entirely from tliis depot, also those 
subsetpiently formed at Knoxvilh', Teim.; Lexington, Ky.; Anniston and Hunts- 
ville, Ala. : also Mobile and New Orleans. 

In order to provide for the large aggregation of troops at Camp George H. 
Thomas, Chickamauga, Ga., a si)ecial supply depot was organized immediately 
ui)on its establishment and put under the cliarge of Maj. E. T. Comegys, sTirgeon, 
United States Army, which depot was supplied from St. Loiiis, and in turn sup- 
plied the regiments and hospitals at Camp Thomas. This depot was discontinued 
on the departure of the troops from Camp Thomas. 

Owing to the distance of the camps at Lexington, Knoxville, Huntsville. and 
Anniston, the chief surgeons in charge of these several camps were authorized to 
draw direct upon the depot at St. Loiiis for any article on the supply table without 
submitting requisitions in advance to this office. By this means much time was 
saved. 

The officer in charge of the St. Louis depot was directed, July y, to keep in stock 
1 ,000 iron ^beds or cots with full supply of bedding, ready for immediate issue. 
The same instructions were sent to the officer in charge of the New York supply 
depot. 

As in the case of the New York depot, both the working force was increased 
and additional space was secured to meet the pressure of the largely increased 
demands. 

In addition to supplying the region directly depending upon the St. Louis depot, 
many articles were sent from that depot to the supply officer at San Francisco for 
the use of the Manila expedition. 

The supply depot at San Francisco was charged not only with supplying posts 
on the Pacific coast, but with outfitting with medical supplies the troops leaving 
for the Philippine Islands. As much delay and expense of transportation would 
have been inciirred by sending stipplies from eastern depots to San Francisco, the 
officer in charge of that depot was authorized to purchase at discretion all neces- 
sary medicines, hosi)ital stores, instruments, and miscellaneoiis supplies of every 
kind needed for the troops going to Manila. Articles of special manufacture, 
such as medical and surgical chests, litters and litter slings, hospital corps and 
orderly pouches, and especially prepared field dressings, already referred to, were 
shipped to San Francisco from St. Louis, not being obtainable on the Pacific 
coast. The distance of San Francisco from the center of Government was so 
considerable that the officer in charge of that depot was necessarily given large 
discretion in the i)urchase of siipplies and expenditiire of fiinds. 

Question 8. * * * What arrangements were luade. and liow were the armies 
operating in Ciiba, Porto Rico, and the Philippines supplied with medical officers, 
medical supplies, and food for the sick and wounded? 

The army destined for operations in Cuba, which was organized at Tampa. Fla.. 
under the command of General Shaffer, was, it is Ijelieved. amply supplied with 
medical supplies and hospital stores. Not only were the reqiiisitions of the chief 
medical officer and siipply officer of that army supijlied, but many additional 
supplies not called for, but deemed advisable in the judgment of the Siirgeon- 
General, were sent. 

Reference has already been mad(« to the fac-t that the regular regiments, of 
which General Shaffer's army was chiefly formed, were directed to take with 
them from their respective po.sts their medical and surgical chests, complete field 
outfit, and three months' medical supplies, but this was not relied upon as being 
sufficient, and additional medical supplies were sent them, as already indicated. 
Further, on April 20, 1898, instructions were issued to Lieut. Col. B. F. Pope, chief 



68G liWK.STlGATlUN OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

surgeon, Tampa, directing him to inspect the medical department of each regi- 
ment npon its arrival and report to this office its deficiencies in medical supplies. 

Difficulties arose owang to delay in receiving these supplies caused by insufficient 
transportation facilities on the railroads leading to Tampa. There was for a 
short time not actual scarcity, it is believed, but a fear that the supplies destined 
for use of the expedition would not be received in time. Before sjiiling, however, 
they were delivered in sufficient (luantities. It is probable, further, that on 
account of insufficient transportation all the supplies that were intended for Gen- 
eral Shaffer's army were not actually loaded upon the transiwrts accompanying 
his expedition, but no definite information on this point is obtainable. 

The appended list "C" shows the dates when ordered and. supplies sent to 
Tami>a, Fla., for General Shaffer's army; list " D" those sent to Cuba by Belief 
and other vessels. 

The exjjedition sent to Porto Rico under the command of General Miles was 
fully outfitted at the camps from which the troops were taken, and sTipplies hav<' 
been sent to Ponce in accordance wth the judgment of the Surgeon-General as to 
what might be needed, and every re(iiiisition of the chief surgeon of the com- 
mand operating in Porto Rico has been filled by the next opportunity afi:orde<l for 
shipment. 

As already indicated in remarks upon the San Francisco depot, the Manila expe- 
dition was almost entirely fitted out with supplies from that point; only special 
articles that were maniTfactured at the East, such as medical and surgical chests, 
hospital corps and orderly pouches, litters and litter slings, surgical instruments, 
desks, mess chests and surgical dressings, were sent from New York and St. 
Louis. Appendix E is a report of outfitting of Manila expedition. 

Question 10. Were all vessels used in transjiorting sick and wounded thoroughly 
inspected by a medical officer before troops were i)ermitted to emljark. and were 
they fully supplied with surgeons, surgical instruments, medical supplies of every 
character, potable water, and proper food for sick and convalescents? 

The two hospital ships the Relief and the Missouri were fully supplied with 
everything necessary for the treatment, the comfort, and the diet of the sick. 
Ordinary transports ujion which sick and convalescents were sent to the United 
States from Cuba and Porto Rico were under the supervision of the authorities 
at tlie j)oints of sailing from those islands. 

Question 11. Were the armies operating in Cuba, Porto Rico, and the Philip- 
pines fully supplied with efficient surgeons, stewards, and hospital corps, and 
with ambulances, litters, surgical instruments, medical supplies of all kinds, and 
proper food for the sick and wounded? 

So far as it was possible for the Surgeon-General to provide, it is believed tliat 
the armies operating during the present war wnth Spain have been fully furnished 
with medical supplies. It is believed that the remarks already made showing 
the measures taken by him will sustain this belief. That supplies have not in 
all cases been on hand just at the time thej'' were needed has been due to cir- 
cumstances such as delay on the jDart of medical officers in making requisitions, 
and delays in receipt owing to defective or inadequate transportation facilities, 
beyond the control of the Surgeon-General. 

Question 16. What, if any, complaints in writing have l)een received by the 
Surgeon-General in reference to the prompt compliance with requisitions, the 
lack of proper medical attendance, the lack of surgical instruments, the lack of 
proper care, food, and water for the sick and wounded with armies in the field or 
with troops in camp or men in general hospitals and field hospitals or on railroad 
trains or transports at sea; in fact, what, if any, complaints have been made in 
wi-iting in reference to the issuing of proper supplies or the performance of any 
duty appertaining to the Medical Department of the Army? 



REPLY OF SUKGEON-GENERAL. 087 

Vt>ry few complaints in regard to nonrec^ipt of supplies and lack of medical 
supplies have reached this office considering the very large operations of the 
supply department, the wide extent of country involved, and the numerous camps 
and commands to be supplied. There w^ere temporaiy delays in the arrival of 
supplies at Camp Thomas, Chickamauga, and Tampa, Fla.. for General Shaffers 
army, as already stated, hut they were in all cases due to defective transportation 
facilities and not to want of foresight or prompt attention to reciuisitions on the 
part of the Surgeon-General. Trifling, if any, difficulties have been experienced 
at the other camps and stations. 

It is not believed to be necessary or advisable to submit the telegrams referring 
to the delays in nonreceipt of supplies and orders given by the Surgeon-General 
for expediting, tracing up, or duplicating them. In every instance prompt meas- 
ui-es were taken to remedy the difficiilty. 

It has come to the knowledge of the Surgeon-General indirectly, chiefly through 
the press, that some medical officers of volunteer regiments have complained that 
they could not get medicines and other medical supplies. Very few direct com- 
plaints have been made to this office. The complaints can be accounted for in 
several ways: Volunteer medical officers, being taken directly from civil life, were 
accustomed to prescribing from the extensive and varied assortment of di-ugs and 
preparations found in the drug store, not realizing that the army field supply is 
limited in variety by the necessarily limited field transportation and by the neces- 
sity of suppljnng medicines in tablet or solid form, to obviate danger of breakage 
of bottles of liquids. In the army field supply every important or necessary article 
of the materia medica is represented, and it is perfectly possible to treat diseases 
adeciuately by using one of the preparations allowed. It is possible that some 
medical officers, not being able to get exactly the preparation or combination 
they wanted, were unfair enough to say that they coiild not get medicines neces- 
sary (as they considered) for the care of the sick. Again, difficulty has arisen, no 
doubt, fi-om the ignorance of volunteer medical officers of the proper mode of 
making requisition for medical siipplies, and because they did not always take 
the trouble to inform themselves or to consult the manuals and regulations, which 
were freely distributed. 

Some medical officers, it is believed, finding that the agents of relief associa- 
tions at hand were not only willing but anxious to supi)ly medicines and stores, 
accepted them rather than make requisition, and thiis incur accountability for 
the articles when received. 

It is therefore easy to see that the unjust impression might arise that tlie Med- 
ical Department had failed to supply the needs of the sick, while the simple fact is 
that the proper authorities were not informed of their needs. 

As already stated, field hospitals where fevers and other serious affections were 
treated were not restricted to the articles on the field supply table. Not only so, 
but many articles never heretofore furnished by the Government have been sup- 
plied in order to gratify the wishes of those immediately charged ^^^th the care of 
the sick and to place in their hands everrthing that would be likely to aid their 
treatment. 

I find that an answer to (piestion 16 has already been prepared for your signa- 
tiire by Lieutenant-Colonel Smart, and has. together with complaints that have 
been received at this office in regard to failure to receive medical supplies, already 
been forwarded to the president of the investigating commission. A few addi- 
tional papers relating to this subject are here\vith appended, uiiirked " F." 
Very respectfully, 

C. H. Aldex, 
Assistant Surgeon-General, U. S. Army, in Charge of Supply Division. 



688 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

APPENDIX A. 

MEDICAL DEPARTMENT UNITED STATES ARMY. FIELD SUPPLY 

TABLE. 

[Approved by the Secretary of War May 9, 1898.] 

Outfit and Allowance for Slx Months for One Thousand Men. 

[Articles iu italics are not expentlable.] 

MEDICAL CHEST No. 1. 



TOP DRAWER. 



LEFT. 



Twelve 120-cc. bottles. 



Amiuonii chloridi trochisci. 

Cainpliora. 

Glycyrrhizjie mist. comp. tablets. 

Linimentitiu rabefaciens, tablets. 

Pilulse carminativae. 

Pihilae catliarticpe compositae. 

Potassii bromidiiui. 

Quininae sulphas, pills. 

Sodii bicarboiias, tablets. 

Sodii bicarb, et luentlite pip. tab. 

Sodii salicylas, tablets. 

Warburg's tincture, i)ills. 

(1 pill=:l draclim.) 



Twenty 60-cc. bottles. 

AcidiTin nitricuni. 

Aciduiu tannicuin. 

Antipyriiiuiu, tablets. 

Bismutlii subnitras. 

Chloral. 

Collodium. 

Ferri cliloridi tiuctura. 

Hydrargyri massa, tablets, 

lodum. 

Ipecacuanha, tablets. 

Ipecacuanha et opium, tablets. 

Phenacetiinim, tablets. 

Pilulae cami)li. et opii. 

Potassii arsenitis liquor. 

Potassii iodidum, tablets. 

Potassii x>ei"inanganas. 

Salol, tablets. 

Sodii boras. 

Veratri viridis tinctura. 

Zinci sulphas, tablets. 



center of DRAWER. 



Corkscrew number . . 1 

Corks for vials dozen_ _ 2 

Ctqi- -. number. . 1 

Envelopes for tablets gross. . 1 

Labels for vials dozen . . 2 

Measures, graduated, glass, 

100-cc. (in case) number. . 1 



Medicine glass (iu cup) number 

Paper, filtering pack 

Paper, litmus book. 

Pill boxes, small dozen. 

Spatida niimber. 

Tongue depressor do . . 

Urinometer (in case) do. . . 



SMALL DRAWER AT RIGHT OF UPPER DRAWER. 



Hypodermic tablets. 



Apmorphinje hydrochloras 
Atropinae sulphas. 
Cocainse hydrochloras. 
Digitalinum. 



Hyoscina? hydrobromas. 
Morphinae sttlphas. 
Nitroglycerinum. 



Amyl nitris (S-droj} pearls) , 12 in box box. 

Clinical thermometer number. 

Hyjiodermic syiHnge do. . . 



REPLY OF suugeon-genp:ral. 689 

Medicine di-oppers number, . 6 

Pencils, earners hair do 6 

Pencils, indelible do 1 

Pencils, indelible, leads foi- box. _ 1 

LOWER DRAWER. 



Twelve 235-cc. bottles. 

Acidum carbolicuni. 

Acidnm suliihuricum aromaticiim. 

.lEther spiritiis compositns. 

>;?]]tlier spiritns nitrosi. 

Alcohol. 

AmmoniiB aqna. 

Aiunioniee spiritiis aromaticus. 

Brandy. 

Glycerinnm. 

Olenni terebinthina?. 

S(iuibbs mixture. 

Tiuctura opii camphorata. 



RIGHT. 

Alcohol lamp number. . 1 

Atom izers, hand do 2 

Copaibse pilulae comp bottles. . 2 

Probangs number.. 2 

Speculum, rectal do 1 

Sponge holders for throat do 2 

Stethoscope, double do 1 

Test tubes do 6 

Vials, 1 doz. 1-oz. ; 1 doz. 2-oz. .dozen. . 2 
Tape measure number . . 1 



SMALL DRAAVER AT RIGHT OF LOWER DRAWER. 



Thirty-tive 15-cc. bottles. 



Acidum arsenosum, tablets. 

Aconiti tinctura, tablets. 

Aloini pilulae comp. (bott. 2). 

Amnionii carbohas. 

Argenti nitras. in crystals. 

Argenti nitras fusus. 

Bismuthi subgallas. 

Caffeina citrata. 

Cannabis indicae tinctura, tablets. 

Capsicum, tablets. 

Cocainae hydrochloras, hy|iod. tablets. 

Codeina. 

Cupri arsenis, tablets (bott. 2). 

Digitalis tinctura, tablets (bott. 2). 

Ergotinuni. tablets. 

Guaiacohs carbonas. 



Hydrarg. chlor. mite cum sodi bicarb., 

tablets (bott. 3). 
Hydrarg. iodidum flavum. tablets. 
Hyoscyami piluhe comijositae. 
Ichthyoluiu. 
Menthol. 

Morphinie sulphas. 
Morphinae sulphas, tablets. 
Oleum tiglii, tablets. 
Opii pilulae. 
Plumbi acetas, tablets. 
Podophylli resina, tablets. 
QuininiB hydrochloris, hyjjod. tablets. 
Strychninae sulphas, tablets. 
Sulphoiial, tablets. 
Zinci oxidum. 



REAR COMPARTMENT 
Four tin cans. 

Magnesii sulphas. 

Oleum ricini. 

Potassii et sodii tartras. 

Sinapis nigra. 

Banciages. gauze, 8 sizes number. . 

Bandages, suspensory do 

Belladonnae emplastrum, in 2-meter tin tin 

Cantharidis emplastrum, in 1-meter tin -do 

Gauze, sublimated packages. . 

Plaster, adhesive, 1-in spool. . 

TS.S.'',— VOL. 1 44 



18 
4 
1 
1 
6 
1 



690 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Plaster, isinglass tin . . 1 

Pocket case number . 1 

Sinapis emplastrum. in 4-meter tins tin_ . 2 

Sponges, compressed cotton box. _ 1 

Syringes, penis, glass number _ . 

Tooth-extracting case do 1 

MEDICAL CHEST NO. 2. 

UPPER DRAWER. 

Bags, rvbber, hot icater number. . 

Bags, ruhher, ice, for head - -do 

Bougies and catheters, 6 of each in box box. _ 

Pump, S7irgical .number. _ 

Thermometer - do 

Towels --- ^ do 

Trusses, single do 

LOWER DRAWER. 

Blank book number. . 

Hygiene. Notter and Firth do 

Medicine, Practice of, Osier do 

Siirgery, operative, Zuckerkandl do 

Surgery, tcounds in war, Step)henson do 

Tlierapeutics, Hare do 

REAR COMPARTMENT. 

Acidum tannicum, in 25-gm. bottles » - .bottles. . 4 

Antipyrinum , 324-mgm . tablets (200 in bottle do 2 

Bismutlii sul)gallis, in 250-gm. bottles do 2 

Bismutlii subnitras, in 500-gm. bottles do 6 

Capsicum, 32-mgm. tablets (150 in bottle) do 4 

Hydrargj-i-i cliloridum mite cum sodii bicarb. , tablets (200 in bottle) . . .do 

Ipecacuanlise et opii x>ulvis, 324-mgm. tablets (200 in bottle) do 1 

Morphinae sulphas, 8-mgm. tablets (lUO in bottle) . .do 

Phenacetinum, 324-mgm. tablets (200 in bottle) do 2 

Pilulse campbore et opii (or tablets) (200 in bottle) do 4 

Pilulfe catliarticaB compositse (or tablets) (200 in bottle) do 

Podopbylli resina, 16-mgm. tablets (100 in bottle) do 4 

Potassii bromidum, 324-mgm. tablets, in 500-gm. bottles do 2 

Quinin;:^ sulphas, 200-mgm. pills (500 in bottle) do 6 

Strychninte sulphas, 1-mgm. tablets (500 in bottle) do 2 

Sulphonal, 324-mgm. tablets (200 in bottle) do 1 

HOSPITAL CORPS POUCH. 

[One for each private of the Hospital Corps. J 



Ammonife spiritus aromaticus in 
flask with cup , cubic centimeters . CO 

Bandages, gauze, sterilized, num- 
ber (5 

Qa^e containing pins, common and 
safety, scissors, and dressing for- 
ceps ..number.. 1 



First-aid packets number. . (5 

Jackknife, u'ith smc blade . . .do 1 

Ruhher bandage do 1 

Splints, \vire gauze for, in roll, num- 
ber 1 

Surgical plaster spool . . 1 



KEPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 



691 



ORDERLY POUCH. 

[One for eacli medical offlcor's orderly.] 



Ammoniae! spiritits aroinaticus in 

flask ^\^th cu]) , cubic centimeters _ 60 
Bandages, gaiize, sterilized, num- 
ber 6 

Case pocliet num ber . . 1 

Chlorof oi-ui in case grams _ _ 100 

Catheter, En(j.,ruhher in box, num- 
ber 1 

Diagnosis tags and pencil _ _ _ book _ . 1 

First-aid packets number _ . 4 

Gauze, sublimated, 1 -meter pieces, 

number 4 

Jackknife, with saw blade, number. 1 



Ligatures, catgut, sterilized, pack- 
age 

Ligatures, silk, sterilized, package. 

Mist, chloroformi et opii, in case, 
fluid or tablets, cubic centimeters. 

Pins, common and safety, of each, 
paper 

Rubber bandage number. . 

Scissors. .do 

Splints, wire gauze for, in roll, num- 
ber 

Surgical plaster spool .. . 

Syringe, hypodermic number. . 



POCKET CASE. 

Bistoury, curved, probe pointed number. . 

Bistoury, straight do 

Catheter, plated do 

Caustic holder do 

Director, grooved, with myrtle leaf do 

Forceps, dissecting, mouse tooth ... do 

Forceps, Juvviostatic and needle do 

Forceps, hccmostatic, short do 

Forcejis, hcemostatic, long. do 

Horsehair .. coil 

Needle, aneurism.. .__ number. _ 

Needle, exploring do 

Needles, surgeon's do 

Probe, tcith Nelaton's tip do 

Scalpel do 

Scissors, straight ". do 

Silkworm gut coil. _ 

Tenaculum number . . 

Case, leather do. 

Pouch, leather do 

FIELD CASE (SURGEON'S). 

[One for each medical oliicer.] 

Bistoury curved, probe pointed number 

Bistoury, straiglit, sharp pointed do 

Case, mahogany . do 

Catheter, male, plated. do 

Director, grooved, with myrtle leaf. do 

Forceps, bone, open box joint, corrtigated handles, scooped out ....do 

Forceps, bullet and dressing combined do 

Forceps, dissecting, mouse teeth ...do 

Forceps, luvmostatic and needle .do 

Hccmostats, "baby " .' do 

Handles, hard rubber, for knife and saio .do 

Horsehair, black _ coil 

Knife, amputating , ....„., number. . 



m 



602 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Needle, aneurism number. - 

Needles dozen . _ 

Pouch, leather, unth sling stra2) number. . 

Probe, silver, unili Nelaton's tip do 

Saw, amputating, lifting hack do 

Saw, metacarpal do 

Scalpel do 

Scissors, curved on flat, vnth Collinses lock . . -do 

Scissors, light knee bent, loith Collins's lock do 

Silk cards. . 

Silkworm giit (20 strands) coil 

Tenaculum ' number. . 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Field desk 1 

Lanterns 2 

Litters : 2 

A renewal of supplies can be obtained by regimental surgeons from the surgeon 
ill charge of a brigade or division hospital, upon a special requisition approved 
by the chief surgeon. No receipt is to be given for expendable articles. 

FOR BRIGADE OR DIVISION FIELD HOSPITAL. 

MEDICINES.- 

Acidium arsenosum, 1-mgm. tablets (125 in bottle) bottles. . 3 

Aciduni boricuui. 824-mgm. tablets ( 1 25 in bottle) do 2 

Aciduni carbolicum, in 250-gni. bottles do 10 

Aciduui nitricum, in 250-cc. g. s. bottles do 1 

Aciduni sulphuricuin aromaticuni, in 250-cc. g. s. bottles do 10 

Aconiti tinctura. 0.1-cc. tablets (200 in bottle) do 5 

^ther . in 100-gm. tins tins . . 20 

^theris spiritus compositus, in 250-cc. bottles bottles. . 2 

^tlieris spiritus nitrosi, in 500-cc. bottles do 5 

Alcohol , in 1-liter bottles do ... . 24 

Ammonise aqua, 10 p. c. , in 500-cc. g. s. bottles do 10 

Ammonne spiritus aromaticus, in 250-cc. bottles do 6 

Amiuonii carbonas. in 250-gm. bottles do 3 

Ainmonii chloridi trochisci (100 in bottle) do 10 

Amyl nitris (5-drop pearls) , 12 in box boxes. . 2 

Aiitipyriiium, 324-nigm. tablets, in 125-gm. bottles bottles. . 10 

Argenti nitras, in crystals, in 25-gm. bottles do 1 

Argenti nitras f usus, in 25-gm. bottles do 1 

AtropinaB sulphas, 0.65-mgm. hypodermic tablets tubes. . 2 

Belladoniiae emplastrum, in 2-meter tins tins. _ 4 

Bismuthi subnitras, in 500-gm. bottles bottles. . 10 

Caflfeinse citrata, in 25-gm. bottles do 2 

Camphora. in 500-gm. bottles do 6 

Cantharidis emplastrum, in 1-meter tins tins. . 4 

Capsici tinctura, in 100-cc. bottles : bottles. . 2 

Chloral, in 50-gni. g. s. bottles do 2 

Chloroformuni, in 100-gm. g. s. bottles do 48 

Cocainje liydrochloras, 10-mgni. hyjiodermic tablets, in 15-cc. bottles, .do 5 

Cf)deina, in 50-gni. bottles do 2 

Collodium, in 25-cc. bottles do 10 



REPLY OF StiRGEON-GE^TEtlAL. 693 

Copaibae pilulae comp. or tablets (500 in bottle) bottles. _ 5 

Digitaliniim, in 1-mgm. hypodermic tablets tubes. . 2 

Digitalis tinctiira, 0.3-cc. tablets (200 in bottle) bottles. . 10 

Eniplastrnm ferri (porous) , in boxes of 24 boxes. . 4 

Ergotinum, ISO-mgm. tablets (200 in bottle) bottles. . 2 

Ferri chloridi tinctiira, in .WO-cc. g. s. bottles do 4 

Ferri pilulae conipositae (200 in bottle) do 10 

Glyceriniim. in 500-cc. bottles.. do 10 

GlycjTrliizte niisttira composita, tablets (400 in bottle) do 10 

Giiaiacolis carbonas, in 250-giu. bottles do 4 

Hydrargyri chloridnm mite, in lOO-gm. bottles do 1 

HydrargjTi iodidnin flavnm, lO-mgni. tablets (200 in bottle) do 10 

HydrargjTi massa. 324-mgm. tablets (125 in bottle) do 5 

Hydrargyri nngnentnm, in 500-gui. jars jars. . 2 

Hyoscyami pilnlae compositae (200 in bottle) bottles. . 2 

Ichthyoluni, in 25-gni. bottles do 4 

lodofornmm, in 100-gm. bottles do 6 

lodiim, in 50-gm. g. s. bottles do 2 

Ipecacuanha, 65-nigni. tablets (200 in bottle) dc 5 

Ipecacuanhie et opii ijulvis, 324-nigni. tablets (200 in bottle) do 5 

Ipecacuanhae extractuni fluidum, in 250-cc. bottles do 2 

Linimentuni rubefaciens, tablets (50 in bottle) do 10 

Magnesii sulphas, in 4-kilo. tins tins. _ 4 

Menthol, in 50-gm. bottles bottles. _ 2 

Moiiihinse sulphas, 8-mgm. tablets ( 100 in bottle) do 2 

Moi-phinae sulphas, S.mgm. hj'podermic tablets tubes. _ 12 

Nitroglycerinum , 0. 65 mgm. hj^^jodermic tablets do 2 

Oleum mentha? piperita?, in 100-cc. bottles bottles. . 2 

Oleum ricini, in 1-liter bottles do 24 

Oleum terebinthinae, in 1-liter bottles do 6 

Oleum theobromatis, in 250-gm. tins tins. . 2 

Petrolatum spissum, 48.8 C. , in 500-gm. tins do 2 

Phenacetinum, 324-mgm. tablets ( 100 in bottle) bottles. . 5 

Pilulae cami^horae et opii (or tablets) (200 in bottle) . do 10 

Pilulae carminativae (200 in bottle) do 5 

Pilulae catharticae compositae (or tablets) (200 in bottle) do 18 

Plumbi acetas, 130-mgm. tablets ( 100 in bottle) . .do 4 

Potassa, in 25-gm. bottles do 1 

Potassii arsenitis li(iuor. in 250-cc. bottles do 2 

Potassii bromidum. 324-nigm. tablets, in 500-gm. bottles do 6 

Potassii et sodii tartras (pulvis) , in 500-gm. bottles do 6 

Potassii iodidum, 324:-mgra. tablets (200 in bottle) do 5 

Potassii permanganas, in 50-gm. bottles do 5 

Quininae hydrochloras, 32-mgm. hj^odermic tablets tubes . . 10 

Quininae sulphas, 200-mgm. tablets or pills (500 in bottle) bottles. . 48 

Salol, 324-mgm. tablets ( 125 in bottle) do 5 

Sinapis eniplastrnm. in 4-meter tins .tins. . 20 

Sinapis nigra (pulvis) in 500-gm. tins . tins. . 5 

Sodii bicarbonas, 324-mgm. tablets (200 in bottle)' bottles. . 24 

Sodii bacarb. et menthae pip. (tablets) , (250 in bottle) do 5 

Sodii boras (pulvis) . in 500-gm. bottles do 2 

Sodii salicylas, 324-mgm. tablets (200 in bottle) do 5 

Veratri viridis tinctura, in 100-ce. bottles do 2 

Zinci oxidum, in 250-gm. bottles do 2 



694 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Zinci sulphas, 324-mgm. tablets (100 in bottle) bottles. . 5 

Zingiberis extractuin fluidum. in 250-cc. bottles do 4 

ANTISEPTICS AND DISINFECTANTS. 

Antiseptic tablets, liydrarg. cblor. corros. (200 in bottle) bottles. _ 10 

Lime, chloride, in 500-gni. w. m. bottles do 48 

Mercury corrosive chloride, in 500-gni. bottles do 4 

Tricresol in 1-kilo. bottles do 6 

HOSPITAL STORES. 

Condensed milk cans. _ 48 

Beef extract, in 100-gm. tins or jars tins. . 48 

Brandy, in 1-liter bottles bottles. _ 12 

Soap, castile or its equivalent kilos. . 4 

Sugar, white, in 6-kilo. tins tins. _ 2 

Tea, in 1 kilo, tins do 5 

Whisky, in 1-liter bottles bottles. . 2 

STATIONERY. 

Blank books, cap, 4-qiiire number. . 2 

Blank books, 8vo, 4-qiiire do 2 

Envelopes, official, letter do 400 

Ink, writing, in 120-cc. bottles bottles. . 4 

Ink, carmine, in 30-cc. bottles do 1 

Miicilage do 2 

Pads, prescription number. . 48 

Pads, letter ._.^ do 6 

Paper, blotting qiiires. 1 

Paper, writing, letter do 24 

Pencils, lead number. _ 12 

Penholders . do 6 

Pens, steel ., gross. . 1 

SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, APPLIANCES, AND DRESSINGS. 

Bandages, gauze, sterilized, 144 in box, 3 sizes gross. . 12 

Bandages, plaster do 1 

Ba ndages, rubber, 4 meters by 33 mm number . . 2 

Bandages, suspensory do 12 

Case, emergency do 1 

Case, pocket do 3 

Cotton, absorbent, sterilized, in 1-oz. pkgs kilos. . 10 

First-aid packets, as reqiiired number. _ 

Gauze, sublimated, in packages, 1 meter each packages. _ 500 

Gauze, iodoform, in packages, i meter each do 75 

Ligatures, catgut, sterilized, in packages, 3 sizes number. . 300 

Ligature, silk, sterilized, in packages, 3 sizes do 300 

Microscope do. . . 1 

Muslin, unbleached meters. . 20 

Oakum or tow .• kilos. 10 

Pins, assorted . papers. . 10 

Pins, safety, 8 sizes dozen. . 18 

Plaster, adhesive, on spools, 1-inch number. . 24 

Piaster, adhesive, on spools, 2-inch do 6 

Plaster, isinglass, in 1-meter rolls meters. . 4 

Plaster of paris, in 2-kilo tins kilos. . 10 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 695 

Rubber sheeting - - meters. . 10 

Silk, oiled, in 5-meter rolls - - do 15 

Splints, wire for pieces. . 30 

Si3onges, compressed cotton, 4 dozen in box boxes. . SO 

Thermometers, clinical number. . 3 

Tourniquet, rubber, EsmarcWs do 4 

Trusses, single do 6 

FURNITURE, BEDDING, AND CLOTHING. 

Basins, wash, hand, agate loare number . _ 4 

Blanket cases -,-do 16 

Blankets, gray do 100 

Desk, field do. - - - 1 

Furniture, field, folding set. . 5 

Mosquito bars number. . 50 

Pillows, feather do. . . . 10 

Pillows, hair do 50 

Pillowcases, cotton do 100 

Saeets, cotton do 100 

Shirts, cotton - - do 50 

Tmoels, hand dozen . . 30 

MISCELLANEOUS. ' ' 

Bedpans, agate ware number. . 2 

Boxes, pill dozen. . 6 

Boxes, powder - -do G 

Brooms number . . 2 

Brushes, for cleansing do 6 

Buckets, fiber or wood do 4 

Buckets, agate, 3 in nest - - -nest. . 1 

Chest, commode number. . 2 

Chest,food ....do.... 1 

Chest, medical (Nos. 1 and 2) , of each do 1 

Chest, mess do 2 

Chest, sterilizing do 1 

Chest, surgical (Nos. 1 and 2) , of each do 1 

Corks, assorted, in bags of 12 dozen .dozen. . 12 

Crutches ..pairs.. 3 

Crutches, rubber tips f or number. . 6 

Cups, spit do 3 

Cushions, rubber, small do 2 

Cushions, rubber, with open center do 2 

Dippers do 2 

Envelopes for tablets, 5 by 6 cm dozen . . 50 

Hatchet... _ number.. 1 

Labels for vials. gross.. 1 

Lantern glasses, extra, red or white, as required number . . 

Lantern Avicks, as required do 

Lanterns -do 3 

Littei's - do...- 10 

Litter slings --- -do 25 

Medicine glasses - - - - -do 4 

Paper, wi"ai)ping, brown ^quires. . 2 

Smr, hand, small number. . 1 

Sponges, bath, large do 2 



696 



INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAIJ WITH SPAIN. 



Syringes, penis, glass, in case nnmber. . 

Talcum (French chalk) , 1-kilo packages kilos. . 

Test tubes number. . 

UruKils, agate -ware do 

Vials, 30-cc dozen. . 

CONTENTS OF SURGICAL CHEST NO. 1. 

TOP DRAWER. 

LEFT, 



Heater, alcohol number. 

Corkscrew do. . . 

Pins, common packages. 

Pins, safety do. . . 

Scissors pair. 

Soap, green, in tin ijounds. 

Tags, diagnosis packages . 



[Nino 120-cc. bottles.] 

Hydrarg. bichlor. , tablets .bottles. . 3 

Petrolatum do 1 

Pil. camph. et opii do 1 

Pil. cath. comp do 1 

Quin. sulpli. 200-mgm. pills . . do 1 

Salt, table do 1 

Sodii carbonas, tablets do 1 

Sodii ehloridum, etc., tablets, bot- 
tles 1 

[In paper packets.] 

Ligature, catgut, No. 1, 2, and S, 
number 100 

Ligature, silk, No. 1,3, and 3, num- 
ber 80 

Tubes, drainage, i, |, and ,V meter, 
each number. . 3 



SMALL DRAWER AT RIGHT OF UPPER DRAWER. 

Pencil, indelible number. 

Pencil, indelible, leads for box. 

Syringe, hypodermic number. 

Thermometer, clinical . . .do. 

Wire, silver coil. 



Hypodermic tablets. 



Apomorphinte hydrochloras. 
Atropina? sulphas. 
Cocainse hydrochloras. 



Digitaliniim. 
Nitrogiycerinum. 
Morphinae sulphas. 



Quinina- hydrochloras. 



LOWER DRAWER. 



LEFT. 
[Nine 235-cc. bottles.] 

Acid, carbolic bottle. 

Alcohol do. . - 

Brandy do. . . 

Chloroform .do. . . 



Basin, rubber number. . 

Blank book do 

Brushes, hand, scrub do 

Cylinders, rubber (intest. .suture), 

number 

Inhaler, chloroform ntimber . . 

Plaster, riibber, adh spools. . 

Sterilizer, instrument number. . 

Strop, razor do 

Toivels (in sterilizer) do 



36 
2 

13 



REPLY OP sijr(^p:on-general. 697 

REAR COMPARTJfENT. 

Bandages, gauze, 21, 3, and 3i inches number. . 36 

Case, field, operating do 1 

Cotton, absorbent, in 1-oiince packages do 36 

Ciq) do 1 

Gaxize, iodoform, in |-meter packages do 12 

Ganze, sublimated, in 1-meter packages do 36 

Sponges, cotton, compressed, large size dozen. - 12 

Tourniquet, rubber, Esmarcli's number. . 1 

SURGICAL CHEST NO. 2. 

UPPER DRAWER. 

Bandages, plaster, 2-in number. . 6 

Beef extract. Armour's cans. _ 4 

Gauze, wii-e rolls. . 8 

Milk, condensed cans. . 4 

Pliers, cutting, for fixed bandages .number. . 1 

Soap, germicidal cakes. . 6 

Sprinkler, iodoform number. . 1 

Tool, universal do 1 

Tourniquet, rubber, Esmarch's do 1 

LOWER DRAWER. 

Chloroform, in 250 c. c. bottles . bottles. . 4 

Cotton, absorbent, in 1-oz. i^ackages packages. . 32 

Gauze, iodoform do 12 

Splints, wooden, veneer number. . 6 

Sponges, cotton, compressed, 4 dozen in box dozen . . 20 

Tow, in i-lb. packages • packages. . 4 

REAR COMPART.MENT. 

Alcohol. Tea. Plaster of paris. Tricresol. Sugar. 

Bandages, gaiize. 3 sizes number. . .50 

Gauze, sublimated, in 1-meter packages packages. . 40 

STERILIZER. 

TOP DRAWER. 



LEFT. 

Ajyrons, rubber number. . 3 

In cases: 

Bands, rubber 24 

Cots, finger 12 

Gloves . r ubber , pairs . . 4 

Rubber bag and tube for flushing. 



RIGHT. 

Base of petroleum, stove. 



LEFT. 

Up>per part of petroleum stove. 



LOWER DRAWER. 

RIGHT 

Sterilizer. Arnold's. 



Matches, safety.. boxes.. 6 

Wicks package.. 1 



REAR COMPARTMENT. 



Can for petroleum. I Can of water. 

Berkef eld filter. | Dipper. 



098 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 
CONTENTS OF FIELD OPERATING CASE. 

Bistoury, curved, prohe-pointed .number. . 

Bistoury, straight, sharp-p)ointed do 

Box, ligature, tvith three spools _do 

Buttons, Murphy's, 3 in set set. . 

Case, mahogany number- _ 

Camda, silver, Belocques do 

Catheters, silver, Nos. S and 10 do 

Catheter staff, tunneled, Goidey's _ .do 

Catlin, medium, 5-in. blade do 

Chisel do 

Clamps, intestinal, McLatiren's do 

Depressor, tongue, wire, folding do 

Director, grooved, medium .do 

Drills, hone, in handle, set of 3 set. . 

Ear hook and spoon. Gross's number. _ 

Eye spud, Dix\s do 

Forceps, hone-cutting, flat-blade, Liston's do 

Forcepts, clamp. Keen's .do 

Forceps, clamp), Kelley's do 

Forceps, delicate do 

Forceps, dressing and bullet, Forivood's do 

Forceps, haemostatic, curved do 

Forceps, haemostatic, Jones's, 2-in. bite do 

Forceps, hcemostatic, Penn's do 

Forceps, hcemostatic, Wyeth's do 

Forceps, rongeur and bone-holding. For wood's do 

Forceps, 7no2tse-toot]i, icith teeth do 

Forceps, T-shaped, Pratt's . do 

Gag, mouth, Frenches do 

Gouge do 

Chdde, filiform, Goidey's do 

Horse hair coil. ^ 

Knife, ampnitating, la^'ge, 7-inch blade number. _ 

Mallet, Forivood's do 

Needle, aneurism do 

Needle, curved, Reverdin's do 

Needle holder, McBurney's do 

Needles, artery, blunt, right and left do 

Needles, case for do 

Needles, curved, assorted do 

Needles, straight, round do 

Needles, straight, triangular do 

Pereosteotome, light, Sayre's do 

Pins, latest, Wyeth's do 

Pouch, leather, unth sling strap do 

Probe, double end, 8 in. long, one end a porcelain tip, silver do 

Probe, hard rubber, Fluhrer's do 

Razor, hard rubber handle do 

Retractors, double ends, nested do 

Rongeur, medium. Keen's do 

Saw, amputating, two blades, Little's do 

Saw, metacarpal do 

Scalpels, assorted .do 4 

Scissors, (Digular, blunt-pointed do 1 



REPLY OF SlTliaEON-GENERAL. 



Cil!) 



Scissors, cui'vcd on flat. Weir's -ntiraber. 1 

Scissors, heavy, blunt do 1 

Scoop, Wyeth's -- -do 1 

Silkworm gut coil. . 1 

Sponge holders, 1 Sims and 1 regular number . . 2 

Syringe, aspii'ating, toith three points do 1 

Tenaculum do 1 

Trephine, i-in., Galfs do 1 

Trocar and canula, set of 4, silver, in metal box do 1 

Tube, tracheotomy, silver do 1 

CONTENTS OF MESS CHEST. 



Basin, wash, hand, agate icare, num- 
ber 1 

Boiler . double , agate loare . number _ . 1 

Bowls, soup, agate ivare do 6 

Box for salt do 1 

Box for pepper do 1 

Brush, scrubbing do 1 

Can openers do 2 

Cleaver do 1 

CooMmok, Army do _ _ _ 1 

C? ips , coffee , agate tvare do 6 

C«j), large, agate ware do 1 

Dipper, agate wai'e do 1 

Grater, nutmeg do 1 

Gridiron do 1 

Hatchet do 1 

Kettles, steel, nested, with covers, 

number 3 

Knife, butcher number. _ 1 

Knife and fork, carving, of each, 

number 1 

Knife and saui , combined .number. 1 

Knives and forks, of each do 6 

Ladle, agate ivare do 1 



Lantern, candle ntimber. . 

Matches, in uKiterproof case, boxes. . 

Meat cutter, small number. . 

Meat dishes, agate ivare do 

Mill, coffee do. . . . 

Nails, assorted kilos. _ 

Pan, frying, steel number. . 

Pans, mess, agate ivare do 

Pan, sauce, steel, tinned inside, with 

cover number. _ 

Plates, dinner, agate ware _ . .do 

Pot. coffee, agate ware do 

Pot, tea, agate ware do 

Rope, 6-mm meters. _ 

Sielde number . _ 

Spoon, basting, agate ware- . _do 

Spoons, table do 6 

S2)oons, tea do 

Steel do... 

Toivels, crash do 

Tray, metal, japanned do 

Tumblers, agate ware do 

Wire coiL. 



1 

12 
1 
2 
1 
2 
1 
2 

1 
6 
1 
1 

15 
1 
1 



CONTENTS OF FOOD CHEST. 



Beef extract or an etpiivalent prepara- 
tion. 

Candles. 

Condensed milk, in original cans, 4 
kilos. 

Soaii. 

Vinegar, in 1 -liter wicker-covered bot- 
tles, 2 bottles. 

Yeast powder, in J-kilo original cans. 

In this food chest considerable vacant space is left in order to allow latitude to 
each medical officer as to tlie exact character of the supplies he may wish to 
caiTy. 



Tins for. the folloidng articles: 
Beans. 
Butter. 

Coffee. 

Salt and pepper. 

Sugar (3 tins). 

Tea. 



CONTENTS OF COMMODE CHEST. 



Bedpan, agate ivare number. 

Chamber pot. agate ware do. . 

Paper, toilet packages . 



1 I Sjnt cup, agate ware number 

1 Urinal, agate ware do.. 

6 



700 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAW. 
CONTENTS OF FIELD DESK. 



Ar my Regulations copy, _ 

Di'ill Regulations for the Hospital 

Corps coi)y _ _ 

Handbook for the Hospital Corps, 

Smart copy_ _ 

Information slip book do 

Information slip book, desertions, 

copy 

Morning Report, Hospital Corps, 

copy 

Morning Report, sick and wounded, 

copy 

Order and letter book copy. _ 

Register and prescrix)tion book, 

copy 

Manual for the Medical Department, 

copy 

Transfer book copy. - 

STATIONERY. 

Book, blank number. . 

Elastic bands, assorted gross. _ 

Envelopes, official, large. number.. 

Envelopes, official, letter do 

Envelopes, official, note do 

Eraser, steel do 

Ink, black bottles. . 

Ink, red do 

Inkstands number. . 

Mailing tubes do 

Pad, letter do 

Pads, prescription do 

Paper, blotting, pieces q. s. 

Paper fasteners number. . 

Paper, writing, legal-cap... quire.. 

Paper, WTiting, letter do 

Paper, writing, note do 

Pencils, lead number. . 

Pens , steel do 

Penholders do 

Rubber piece. . 

Ruler number. . 



1 



1 

12 

50 

35 

1 

2 

1 
2 

4 
1 
4 

12 
1 
2 
1 
4 

12 
2 
1 
1 



MEDICAL DEPAKTMENT. 

Examination of recruits, monthly 

report number. _ 4 

Hospital-fund statement do 4 

Medical property , return of . . do 2 

Medical supplies, invoice of. single 

sheet number. 6 

Medical supjilies, receipt for, single 

sheet number. . 6 

Medical supplies, special requisition 

for 1 number. . 8 

Report of sick and wounded. do 12 

Report of completed cases. . . do 12 

Return of personnel, etc., H. C, 

number 6 

SUBSISTENCE DEPARTiMENT. 

Ration returns number. _ 12 

ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT. 

Invoices number. . 2 

Quarterly statements do 2 

Receipts do 2 

ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. 

Certificates of disability .number. 2 

Descriptive lists do 2 

Discharges do 2 

Final statements do 4 

Furloughs do 2 

Inventory of effects of deceased sol- 
diers number. . 2 

Muster rolls do 8 

Outline-figure cards do 

Payrolls do 12 

Physical examination of recruits, 

form for number. . 6 

Surgeon's certificate of disability 

for officers number. . 2 



FOLDING FIELD FURNITURE. 



A set consists of- 



Chair, arm, folding number. . 1 

Chairs, small, folding do 10 

Cots, adjustable, folding do 10 



Table, mess, folding number. . 1 

Tables , bedside , folding ... . . do . . . . 10 



REPLY OF SlJRGEON-(iENEKAL. 7<)1 

For convenient reference the followinj,' lists are appended, although the articles 
are not issued by the Medical Department: 

ISSUED BY THE QUARTERMASTER'S DEPARTMENT. 

Ambulance. Hatchet. Shelter for meteorological 

Ambulance, harness for. Ladder. instruments. 

Ax. Lamps, bracket. Spade. 

Clothing, uniforms, etc. Lamps, hanging. Stoivs, heating. 

Cooking utensils. Lockers. Tent age, etc. 

Dippers. Piping for ranges and Travois. 

Flags.* stoves. Wheelbarrow. 

Gas fixtures. Range and fixtures. Wood saw. 

Handcart. Shovel. 

ISSUED BY THE ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT. 

Canteen. Haversack. Spoon. 

Canteen strap. Haversack strap). Waist belts. 

Cup. tin. Knife. Waist-belt plate. 

Fork. Meat can. 

FOR DIVISION AMBULANCE TRAIN. 

Chest, surgical (Nos. 1 and 2) , of each number. . 1 

Chest, sterilizing do 1 

Buckets, agate, 3 in nest nest. . 1 

Hatchets number. _ 1 

Lantern glasses, extra, red or white, as required. 
Lantern wicks, as reqviired. 

Lanterns niimber _ _ 15 

Litters .do 20 

Litter slings, as required. 
Hospital Corps pouch, as required. 
Orderly pouch, as required. 



Appendix B. 

Circular ) War Department. Surgeon General's Office, 

No. 6. \ Washington. August 1.', 1898. 

Chief surgeons of Army corps, of divisions, and of smaller independent com- 
mands are expected to make timely requisition for medical sui)i)lies. It must be 
remembered that some delay is often unavoidable in putting u]) supplies at the 
supply depots and in their transportation to the point at which they are needed. 
In an unexpected emergency telegraphic requisition must be made and supjjlies 
will be sent by express; but it must be remembered that this mode of transporta- 
tion is very expensive, and that failure to make recpiisition in advance of imme- 
diate needs entails unnecessary expense upon the (xovernment. Division and 
field hospitals in which tyijhoid fever and other serious cases are treated should 
be liberally supplied with all articles necessary for the treatment and comfort of 
the sick. The field supi)ly table applies only to mobile commands and division 
hospitals to accompany them on short notice. 

Geo. M. Sternberg. 
Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 

* See A. R., 214. 



7()2 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Appendix C. 

List shoiving dates tvhen ordered and supplies sent to Tampa, Fla., for General 

Shafter's army. 

Apr. 29, 1898. 8,500 first-aid packets issued from this city. 

May 9, 1898. Letter to New York dei^ot to issue by express 17 principal articles 
of medicines and hospital stores, including 250 bottles chloroform. 
100 bottles of qiiinine, 144 tins beef extract, 144 bottles each 
brandy and whisky. 

May 11, 1898. 40 boxes dressings sent from this city, each containing a formalin 
sterilizer, rubber gloves and aprons. 300 each jjackages bandages, 
sublimated gauze, ligatures, compressed cotton sponges, absorb- 
ent cotton, irrigating bags. etc. 

May 16, 1898. From New York depot. 10 field desks. 

May 17, 1898. From New York depot. 10,000 first-aid x>ackets, condensed milk and 
tea. 

May 17, 1898. From New York depot, five times the medicines, hospital stores, 
disinfectants, stationery, surgical instruments and di'essings. 
furniture and bedding, and miscellaneoiis articles on field-supply 
table. 

May 18, 1898. From New York depot. 180 cans beef extract, 300 bottles chloro- 
form. 

May 19, 1898. From New York depot, 15 advance regimental medical outfits 
intended for regiments that were not supplied Avith medical and 
surgical chests. The outfit includes medicines, hospital stores, 
stationery, instrtiments, and dressings, furniture, bedding and 
clothing, and miscellaneous articles. 

May 20, 1898. From New York depot, 100 bottles quinine. 

May 24, 1898. From New York depot, 48 bottles quinine. 

May 24, 1898. Requisition for medical supplies for field hospital at Port Tampa, 
comprising medicines, hospital stores, surgical instruments and 
dressings, stationery, furniture and bedding, and miscellaneous 
articles, etc. 

May 24, 1898. From this citj^ 7 operating tables. 

May 27, 1898. From New York depot. 1.000.000 quinine pills. 

May 28. 1898. AiTthority to buy medicines given. 

May 29, 1898. From New York depot. 10 times the field-supply table, being medi- 
cines, hospital stores and dressings, furnitiTre, bedding and 
clothing, miscellaneous articles, etc., in allowance for 1,000 men 
for six months. 

May 30, 1898. From this city, 2 operating tables. 

June 3, 1898. From this city, 5 surgical sets. 

June 3, 1898. From this city. 5,000 first-aid packets. 

June 4, 1898. From New York depot, sundry medicines, including 200 ounces 
bismuth subnitrate, 50 oimces powdered opium, 100 bottles castor 
oil, etc. 

June 6, 1898. From this city, 6 medical sets and 3 siirgical sets: 100 litter slings. 

June 6, 189.8. From New York depot, 60 litters. 62 hospital corps pouches, 38 
orderly pouches, 25 bull's-eye lanterns. 

June 7,1898. From this city, 25 copies each of following books: Tropical Diseases, 
Wounds in War, Operative Surgery. 

June 8, 1898. From this city, 2 surgical sets. 

June 9, 1898. From this city, 5 medical sets. 

June 10, 1898. From this city, 100 litter slings, 9 medical sets. 

June 11, 1898. From this city. 3 surgical sets; from St. Louis depot, 6 surgeon's 
field cases. 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 703 

List of more important supplies issued to the troops at Tampa, Fla. , before leaving 

for Santiago. 

JEther tins.. 870 

Alcohol bottles . . 40H 

Bismuth siibnitras do 197 

ChloroformTiiu <Jo. . 1, 36(5 

Mori^hinEe sxilphas, tablets do 127 

Oleum ricini do 020 

Piliilfe camphorfe et opii do 214 

Pihilse catharticfe compositae : do 382 

Qnininae sulphas, tablets (500 in bottle) do 3, IIG 

Sodii bicarbonas, tablets do 434 

Antiseptic tablets do 200 

Lime, chloride do 816 

Beef extract tins. . 1 , 230 

Brandy bottles . _ 317 

Soap, castile kilos. _ 107 

Sugar, white tins. _ 49 

Whisky bottles.. 481 

Condensed milk tins. . 906 

Tea pounds. . 1, 210 

Bandages, gauze gross. . 287 

Cotton, absorbent kilos. . 360 

First-aid packets number. _ 24, 000 

Gauze, sublimated packages. . 20, 000 

Gauze, iodoform do 3, 200 

Ligature, catgiit, sterilized do 10, 800 

Ligature, silk, sterilized do 10, 800 

Oakum kilos. . 170 

Sponges, compressed cotton boxes. . 1 , 470 

Blankets, gray number. _ 1 . 340 

Mosquito bars do 070 

Pillows, feather do 150 

Pillows, cotton do 750 

Pillowcases, cotton do 1, 500 

Sheets, cotton do 1, 500 

Shirts, cotton do 750 

Litters do 370 

Litter slings do 475 

Medical sets do 29 

Surgical sets .do 21 

Chairs, arm, folding do 75 

Chairs, small, folding do 750 

Cots, adjustable, folding _ .do 750 

Tables, mess, folding do 75 

Tables, bedside, folding do 750 



704 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Appendix D. 

List of the more imjiortant supplies placed on the hospital shijj Relief for issue ta 
troops in the field, leaving Neiv York City on July 2. 

Mt\\ex tins.. 1,400 

Alcohol bottles.- 1,480 

Bismuthi subnitras do 200 

Chloroformum do 1,960 

Morphinse sulphas, tablets do 40 

Oleum ricini : - - -do 730 

Pihxlfe caiuphorse et opii do 700 

Pilulse catharticse compositse do 860 

Quinina} sulphas, tablets or pills (500 in bottle) number. _ 1, 048, 000 

Sodii bicarbonas, tablets bottles. . 680 

Antiseptic tablets do. . . . 400 

Lime , chloride do ... . 1 , 920 

Beef extract tins.. 3,840 

Brandy bottles . . 480 

Soap, castile kilos.. 320 

Sugar, white tins. . 160 

Whisky bottles. . 960 

Milk, condensed tins.. 1,920 

Tea pounds. . 2, 000 

Bandages, gauze gross. . 480 

Cotton, absorbent kilos.. 200 

Gauze, sublimated packages. . 10, 000 

Ligature, catgut, sterilized do 6, 000 

Ligature, silk, sterilized - - - do 6, 000 

Oakum ..kilos.. 400 

Sponges, compressed cotton boxes. . 1, 200 

Blankets, gray number. . 1, 100 

Mosquito bars do.... 400 

Pillows, feather do.... 200 

Pillows, cotton do.... 1,000 

Pillowcases, cotton do ... . 2, 000 

Sheets, cotton do.... 2,000 

Shirts, cotton do.... 1,000 

Litters. do.... 200 

Litter slings do 500 

Chairs, arm, folding do 100 

Chairs, small, folding do.... 1,000 

Cots, adjustable do.... 1,000 

Tables, mess, folding do 100 

First-aid packets do 10,000 

Soups, canned ( Franco- American) cases. . 61 

Tables, bedside, folding .number. . 1 , 000 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 705 

List of more important supplies placed on the U. S. S. Resolute for issue to troops 
in the field, leaving New York City July IS, ISOS. 

^ther bottles. . 40 

Alcohol do 48 

Bismiitbi siibuitras do 20 

Chloroforiniam do 96 

Moi-pliina? sulijhas, tablets do 4 

Oleiim ricini do 48 

Pihilfe camphorae et opii do 20 

Pilulte catharticte coinpositse do 36 

Quininfe sulphas, tablets or pills number.. 1,048,000 

Sodii bicarbonas, tablets bottles.. 48 

ABtiseptic tablets :- do 100 

Lime, chloride do 480 

Beef extract tins.. 480 

Brandy bottles.. 120 

Soap, castile kilos.. 40 

Sugar, white tins.. 20 

"Whisky bottles. . 120 

Milk, condensed tins.. 480 

Tea pounds. . 500 

Bandages, gauze gross. . 48 

Cotton, absorbent kilos.. 40 

Gauze sublimated packages.. 2,000 

Gauze, iodoform do 300 

Ligatures, catgut, sterilized do 1, 200 

Ligatures, silk, sterilized do 1, 200 

Oakum ...kilos.. 40 

Sponges, compressed cotton - - .boxes. . 120 

Cots, folding number.. 2,000 

Blankets, gray ...do.... 2,000 

Mattresses do 2,000 

Mosquito bars do 2, 000 

Pillows, feather do.... 400 

Pillows, hair or cotton do 2, 000 

Pillowcases, cotton do 3, 200 

Sheets, cotton do 5,000 

Shirts, cotton do 2,000 

Litters do.... 40 

Soups, canned (Franco-American) cases. . 615 

Chairs, arm, folding number.. 4) 

Chairs, small, folding , do.... 400 

Tables, mess, folding do 40 

Tables, bedside, folding do ... . 400 

Table and kitchen furniture for field hospital 2, 000 

7833— VOL, 1 45 . 



706 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Supplies placed on the Olivette for use of troojjs in the field leaving New York City 

on July 26. 

^ther : .- tins. . 20 

Alcohol bottles, _ 24 

Bismuthi subnitras do 10 

Chlorofornmm do 48 

Calomel and soda tablets do 100 

Calomel grams. . 200 

Fowler's solution bottles. . 1 , 000 

Morphinse sulphas, tablets do 2 

Nitric acid, 2-ounce vials vials. . 100 

Oleum ricini bottles. . 24 

Pilulse camphorse et oiiii do 10 

Pihila? catharticse comijositse do 18 

Quininse sulphas, tablets or pills number. . 1 , 024, 000 

StrychninaB sulphas, tablets bottles. _ 100 

Sodii bicarbonas, tablets do 24 

Acidum carbolicum do 1 , 000 

Antiseptic tablets do 50 

Lime, chloride do 1, 240 

Sulphur in roll pounds. . 2, 000 

Beef extract tins. . 240 

Brandy bottles _ _ 60 

Soap, castile kilograms. . 20 

Sugar, white tins.. 10 

Whisky bottles . _ 60 

Milk, condensed tins. . 240 

Tea . pounds. . 250 

Bandages, gauze gross. _ 24 

Cotton, absorbent kilograms. _ 20 

First-aid packets number. . 5, 000 

Gauze, sublimated packages. . 1, 000 

Gauze, iodoform do 150 

Ligatiire, catgut, sterilized do 600 

Ligature, silk, sterilized do. . . . 600 

Oalvum kilograms. . 20 

Sponges, compressed cotton boxes. . 60 

Test tubes number. . 1 , 000 

Clinical thermometers do 100 

Formal gas generators, with supplies do 2 

Cots, folding . . .- do 500 

Blankets, gray do 1, 000 

Mattresses ■. do 500 

Mosquito bars do 500 

Pillows, feather . do 100 

Pillows, cotton do 500 

Pillowcases do 1 , 000 

Sheets, cotton * do 1, 500 

Shirts, cotton do 1, 000 

Litters do 20 

Chairs, arm, folding do 20 

Chairs, small, folding do 200 

Tables, mess, folding do 20 

Tables, bedside, folding do 200 

Table and kitchen furniture for field hospital of beds . . 1 , 000 

Soups, canned (Franco- American) cases. . 305 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 707 

Appendix E. 

Headquarters Department of California, 

Chief Surgeon's Office, 
San Francisco, Col. , May 27, 189S. 
The Surgeon-General U. S. Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

General: I have the honor to report action so far in equipping the Philippine 
exi^edition with medical supplies. 

The first tliree shii^s of this expedition left this port on the 25tli instant, viz, the 
City of Peking, the City of Sidney, and the Atistralia. 

The First California Volunteer Infantry, 49 officers and 978 men, was assigned 
to the Peking. The field, staff, and Comiianies F, I, and M, Third Battalion, 
Second Oregon Volunteer Infantry, 13 officers and 239 men; the California Vol- 
unteer Heavy Artillery, 1 officer and 50 men, and the band and Companies A, C, 
D, and F, Foxirteenth United States Infantry, 9 officers and 378 men; total, 32 
officers and 667 men, to the City of Sidney. 

The commanding general and staff, 5 officers, went on the Australia; also 
the Second Oregon Vokinteer Infantry, field, staff, and band. First and Second 
battalions, and Company C, Third Battalion, 38 officers and 733 men; total, 43 
officers and 733 men. 

Asst. Surg. Harlan E. McVay was assigned to the Fourteenth Infantry, and 
went as senior medical officer of the Sidney, having with him as assistant one 
of the assistant surgeons of the Second Oregon Volunteers. 

The First California Volunteers, one surgeon and three assistant sui'geons, had 
three medical and surgical chests combined, all complete; each containing one 
month's supply for a battalion of 400 men. A supplementary list of medicines, 
surgical di-essings, and hosi^ital stores was also put on board. This ship was also 
fiirnished A\ath many articles belonging to the National Guard of California, and 
was liberally supplied by the Red Cross Society with many useful things. 

The City of Sidney has on board a full six months' supply of nearly every article 
on the annual requisition (and in some instances the amounts were very much 
increased over the allowance, such as brandy, whisky, quinine, potass, pei'mang., 
and other articles suitable for a hot climate), for the purpose of establishing a 
hospital at Manila, and to supply 1,000 men for six months. A month's supply 
of everything needful for the voyage, consisting of one medical and surgical chest, 
field desk, and a number of articles supplementary, of medicines and surgical 
dressings, to replenish the chests, were put in an accessible place. 

The Australia was fitted out with a sufficient quantity of supplies for the voyage 
including a medical and a surgical chest, also a field desk. Tlie medical officers of 
the Australia are the surgeon and assistant surgeon of the Second Oregon Vol- 
unteer Infantry. 

There are 114 officers and 3.377 enlisted men (3,491) on the thi'ee ships, and I am 
sure the supplies will last them until another full supply can be sent. 

Regiments for the expedition are arriving every day. and they bring nothing in 

the way of a medical supply with them. I have fitted them out, as far as possible, 

with necessary medicines, etc., in boxes for temporary use, and requisitions are 

being filled at the depot that vnW give every regiment, so far as possible, the six 

months' allowance authorized by the new field supply table, and it is hoped that 

before they leave here the medical and surgical chests and sterilizers and field 

desks will be on hand for issue, also a sufficient number of hospital coii)s and 

orderly pouches, and litters to supply the hospital corps. I neglected to mention 

that the surgeons on the ships are well supplied with surgical instruments and 

di-essings. 

Very respectfully, 

J. V. D. Middleton, 

Deputy Surgeon-General, U. S. Army, Chief Surgeon. 



708 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Appendix F. 

Editor's Office of the Evening Sun, 

New York, Sex)tembcr 13, ISOS. 
Hon. William McKinley, 

President of the United States. 
SiK: In the regular course of business I have received a letter from Santiago 
which admits of no i^uestion as to the honesty and knowledge of the writer, and 
which sets forth that the condition of oiir troops at Santiago "is very bad. There 
is a very great deal of actual starvation and a very great deal of sickness. We 
need cots and medicines of all sorts in large amounts." 

It is not the policy of the Evening Sun to riisli into print with stories of the nus- 
fortune of our countrymen, but to regard is as the duty of the citizen to seek to 
alleviate their condition. I desire only to call your attention to the conditions 
there, and suggest that you call for reports from either General Lawton or Gen- 
eral Wood, both of whom I know are doing all they can with what they can get, 
but are unable to get sufficient supplies on account of the red tape at Washington. 
I am satisfied that it is only necessary to bring the matter to your attention to 
have the trouble rectified at once. 

With great respect, I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yours, 

Wm. C. M. Clay, 
Managing Editor of the Evening Sun,. 



General Corbin: The within rex)ort is astounding. Can it be true? Make 
immediate inqiiiry by cable and report to me the fact. 

Wm. McK. 
September 14, 1898. ■ 



[Copy of cablegram.] 

Santiago, Cuba, via Hayti, J^.23 p. m. 
Adjutant-General, Washington: 

Referring to yoiir message concerning starvation and sickness of troops at San- 
tiago, I repeat the following just received from general commanding city Santi- 
ago: " I have the honor to inform you that the statement contained in the extract 
of telegram forwarded by the War Department to the effect that there is actual 
starvation among the troops at Santiago, and that medical supplies are insuf- 
ficient, is absohitely without foundation. Food is ample and of good quality; 
meat supplied by Swift & Co. is a good deal of it somewhat damaged; vege- 
etables in greater amount than at present are required. The supply of medicines 
on hand is, I am informed by the chief surgeon and the regimental surgeons of 
my command, ample. There is a good deal of sickness among the troops, also 
among the native Cubans, but it is almost entirely malarial and incident to the 
season." A thorough investigation is being made in each regiment, and report 

will be duly forwarded. 

Lawton , Major-General. 
[seal. J 
For the Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 



Tampa Heights, Fla., Julij 2d, 1S9S. 
The Surgeon-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

Sir: In view of the recent charges made affecting the efficiency of Army Medi- 
cal Department at Santiago, and especially with reference to the conditions pre- 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 709 

vailing on the hospital transports sent north with wounded, I have the honor to 
siibmit the following facts, believing that my position as adjutant to the chief 
surgeon, Fifth Corps, and as the officer in charge of the outfitting of the hospital 
transports Iroquois, Cherokee, and Breakivater may possibly give value to such 
report: 

Drugs, medicines, dressings, instruments, hospital tentage, and supplies were 
loaded on the transports at Tampa in quantities sufficient to meet the needs of the 
Santiago expedition. These supi^lies were divided up on the various vessels, each 
organization having its own equipment. While the bulk of the suijplies were 
with the organized hospitals, the regimental equipment was largely in excess of 
its needs and was intended to be called in to suijplement, if necessary, the (Hjuip- 
ment of these hospitals. 

The landing on Cuban soil was made as rapidly as possible, each organization 
accompanied by the medical attendance assigned to it, and troops were i^iished 
forward with no other equipment and supplies than could be carried by the soldier. 
Having no means of transportation for even their field chests, the regimental 
medical officers had absolutely no resources at their command except such as were 
provided by the orderly and hospital corps i)Ouches and the first-aid packets car- 
ried liy the soldiers. Having once left their ships the latter were promptly ordered 
out of the small bays at Siboney and Daiquiri to permit the unloading of other 
ships. These partially unloaded ships, in obedience to their orders, then proceeded 
to sea from 5 to 15 miles, where they remained hove to indefinitely. Such orders 
were given the transports carrying the reserve and the first division hospitals. 
The one carrying the reserve hospital, in obedience to its orders, proceeded to join 
the naval blockading squadron off Morro Castle, where it remained five days and 
nights, the other transport disappearing, if I was correctly informed, for an entire 
week. During this time the fight at Guasima, had occurred and large numbers of 
sick and wounded were requiring treatment. In the meantime a rex)ort of the 
conditions prevailing on shore was made to the chief surgeon, who promptly laid 
the case before the commanding general, reqiiesting that a launch be placed under 
the control of the medical department for the collection of medical STipplies from 
the various transports. It was also requested that a pack train be organized, 
in the proportion of 1 pack mule to each regiment, to transport supplies, especially 
the field chests, to the front for projjer distribution; and I was suggested by the 
chief surgeon as available for the performance of these duties. The exigency of the 
situation did not apparently appeal to the commanding general, and for two days the 
medical department was unable to get transportation of any kind to the other ships 
or to the shore, although there were a large number of naval launches and l)oats 
employed on various other duties. On the third day, by order of the Adjutant- 
General, one rowboat was turned over to the medical department for the purposes 
above named, and at that time an order was issued for land transportation to 
carry medical supplies to the front, " not to exceed one 6-mule team." On getting 
into this boat with sui^plies from the headijuarters transi)ort I was directed by 
sundry staff officers to take them on various errands. On my refusal to recog- 
nize their authority the commanding general, who had appeared on the scene, 
personally revoked the previous order and directed, after the landing of the sup- 
plies already in the boat, that it shoxild return without delay. Presenting the 
order for land transportation to the quartermaster on shore, I was informed that 
only i)ack mules had as yet been landed ; that neither wagons nor harness liad 
been brought ashore, and, finally, that the road was impassable for wagons. After 
this boat had been taken away the chief surgeon was without any means of com- 
munication \vith the medical officers on shore or still on transports, of finding out 
their wants or of remedying the many already known to hiin. This condition of 
things remained until after the fight at Las Guasimas, at which time there were 



710 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN, 

absolutely no dressings, hospital tentage, or supplies of any kind on shore within 
reach of the surgeons already landed. The news of the Guasinia fight being 
reported to the chief surgeon, he was finally able to get on board the Olivette and 
send her to Siboney, where she received the wounded. Within the following day 
or so the transports carrying the reserve and first divisional hospitals were found 
and iinloaded of their hospital contents; the latter hospital finally obtaining 
limited transportation to the front. 

After a couple of days* duty on board the Olivette I was directed to put the Iro- 
quois in condition to receive patients and to take the full capacity of the ship on 
board. While doing this I was able to set ashore considerable hospital tentagt' 
and supplies found aboard her, and, having control of her boats, I was able to 
visit other transports in the harbor and land medical supplies from them. While 
subsequently outfitting the Cherokee and Breakwater this work was continued as 
well as opportunity and limited facilities permitted, getting supplies from jjerhaps 
a third of the transports composing the fleet. Outside of this it is believed that no 
other regimental medical property was ever unloaded up to the time of my depar- 
ture with wounded on July 10. Appealing on several occasions for the use of a 
lighter or small steamer to collect and land medical supplies, I was informed by 
the Quartermaster's Department that they could render no assistance in that way, 
and the Medical Department was compelled to rely entirely iipon its own energies 
and improvise its own transportation. I feel justified in saying that at the time 
of my departure large quantities of medical supplies urgently needed on shore 
still remained on transports, a number of which were under orders to return to 
the United States. Had the Medical Department carried along double the amount 
of sxipplies, it is difficult to see how, with the totally inadequate land and water 
transportation provided by the Quartermaster's Department, the lamentable con- 
ditions on shore could have been in any way improved. 

The outfitting of transports for the reception of sick and wounded is a duty 
demanding thought and exi)erience, and should never be intrusted to anyone 
except a regular medical officer. It includes the proper policing of the portions 
of the ship to be used by the wounded, the removal of blinks and partitions to 
give space and air, the utilization of the ship's blankets, door mats, rugs, and car- 
pets to render the bunks more comfortable, the securing of extra supplies, such 
as canned souj^s and fruits, lime juice, and oatmeal, the establishment of a mess 
and laundry, and the assignment of convalescents to specific light duties which 
materially relieve the overworked hospital corps. Usually it is necessary to over- 
come passive resistance and opposition on the part of the crews and a tendency 
on the part of the cajjtains to disregard or modify orders. In several instances in 
my own experience this action of the crew amounted almost to mutiny, and was 
only to be dealt with by threats, a show of force, and in one instance by the use 
of the irons. While executive officer at the general hospital. Fort Monroe, I 
learned officially that the cai)tain of the steamship Seneca positively refused to 
obey the orders emanating from your office, given him by the contract surgeon 
in charge, to proceed to New York, he remaining nearly an additional day at 
Hampton Roads with sick and wounded, and asserting that he would obey no 
orders given by the Medical Department. A similar experience of my own at 
Daiquiri, which had to be settled by force^ emphasizes the fact that no one should 
be placed in charge of such a shij) who is not accustomed to command men and 
enforce obedience. 

With regard to the Red Cross Society, it would seem as if the lofty purposes of 
this organization were, on the Santiago expedition, subverted to individual inter- 
ests. While at Tampa the Red Cross ship State of Texas was formally placed 
under the control of the chief surgeon Fifth Corps by Dr. Egan, the repre- 
sentative of this society, he acting under telegraphic instructions to that effect. 



REPLY OF STURGEON-GENERAL. 711 

Colonel Pope accepted this offer and directed that the State of Texas accompany 
the expedition of General Shafter to its destination. Although this order was 
fnlly understood by Dr. Egan, the State of Te.vas did not accompany the exijedi- 
tion.nor did it arrive at Siboney until the forces had been landed, a battle fought, 
and owY hosjjitals established and in working order. The first offers of aid made 
by this society dealt largely in generalities and manifested reluctance to subordi- 
nate the organization to the Medical Department. Too much praise can not be 
given to the individual efforts of Dr. Lesser and the Red Cross nurses. Their 
work was untiring and unselfish and the assistance rendered by them was of 
great value. 

In conclusion, it is desired to emphasize the fact that the lamentable conditions 
prevailing in the army before Santiago were due, first, to the military necessity 
which threw troops on shore and away from the possibility of supply, Avithout 
medicines, instruments, di-essings, or hospital stores of any kind; second, to the 
lack of foresight on the part of the Quartermaster's Department in sending out 
such an expedition without properly anticipating its needs as regards temporary 
wharfage, lighters, tugs, and dispatch boats, and Avithout an adequate number of 
stevedores to handle property. The quartermasters personally accompanying 
this expedition were entirely unable to properly carry out the severe burdens 
imposed on them in spite of the personal energy displayed by them in making the 
most of the limited facilities and resources at their command. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant. 

Edward L. Munson, 
Captain and Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Army, 

Commanding Reserve Ambulance Corjis. 



[Not official.] 

Camp Poland, 
Knoxville, Tenn., September U, 1S9S. 
Gen. Geo. M. Sternberg, Washington, D. C. 

My Dear Sir: I have the honor to state that should there be at any time an 
investigation or an attempt to censure the conduct of your department during 
our stay at Chickamauga Park, will say that my opportimity to know the work- 
ing of the Medical Department while at Camp George H. Thomas was perhaps as 
good as, if not much better than, almost any medical officer on duty there: and I 
will say that at no time during my stay in the park was there any difficulty in pro- 
curing all necessary medical and hospital supplies if the proper effort was made. 
Should you come to KnoxA-ille, I will be glad to exi^lain further, and if at any 
time I am in Washington I will surely call and give you all the information that I 
can.* 

Very truly, yours, 

J. H. Hysell, 
Chief Surgeon, Second Division. First Army Corps. 



Headquarters Seventh Army Corps, 

Office of Adjutant-General, 
Camp Cuba Libre, Jacksonville, Fla., September 27, 1S98. 
Brig. Gen. George M. Sternberg. 

Surgeon-General V. S. Army. Washington, D. C. 
My Dear General : Appreciating the interest manifested at all times by you 
in the health and welfare of this coiiis. your efforts to provide us with materials, 



712 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN 

medicines, nurses, and attendants, together with your generous assistance in aid- 
ing us in eveiy way in the care of the sick, I take pleasure in authorizing the chief 
surgeon to present you with the corps badge, and will feel gratified to have yon 
wear the same. 

Very respectfully, Fitzhugh Lee, 

Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Cor.imanding Seventh Corps. 



Medical Supply Depot, 
18 Loyd Street, Atlanta, Ga., Septemher 39, 1S9S. 
Surgeon-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

Sir: Referring to our conversation when you were in Atlanta, I have the honor 
to state that, althoiigh two separate boards of officers, properly appointed, had 
reported that sufficient quantities of medicines and medical supplies had not been 
furnished, no inquiry was ever made of me npon the siibject by either board, 
officially or tmofficially, directly or indirectly, verbally or in writing. 

I can further state that I twice asked of the commanding general, verbally, that 
he investigate my office in case such reports were rendered, but it was not done. 
I know of no reason why the troops shoxild have suffered from lack of medi- 
cines, etc. Supplies were sometimes slow in getting to the depot on account of 
the overtaxing of the capacity of the railroad. 
Very respectfully, 

E. T. COMEGYS, 

Major and Surgeon, U. S. A., Acting Medical Purveyor. 



[Extract from report of Brigadier-General Coppinger, coninianding the Fourtli Ariry Corps.] 

While many complaints have been made concerning medical supplies, my expe- 
rience with the Fourth Corps leads me to believe that the Surgeon-General has 
accomplished an arduous task i;nder very trying circumstances. It is difficult to 
provide a full supply of medical stores when troops are ordered suddenly to many 
unexpected places, and when the movements are accompanied by serious out- 
breaks of sickness. This difficulty was increased in many instances by the fact 
that most of the regimental, brigade, and division surgeons were entirely new to 
military work. I am well satisfied that the Surgeon-General worked admirably 
to supply my corps, and was ably assisted by Chief Surg. Robert M. O'Reilly, 
to whose ability and energy I feel, on behalf of my troops, deeply indebted. 



[Extract from report of Lieutenant-Colonel Maua, chief surgeon Seventh Army Corps.] 

On my arrival at Jacksonville I found no medical supplies or hospital equipment 
on hand, except a few articles that Major Pilcher had brought with him from 
Tampa, Fla., a week or two previous. The day after my arrival I sent him to 
Tampa with a requisition for a complete outfit for one division hospital and 
ambulance company, the latter consisting of ambulances, escort wagons, teams, 
etc. The Surgeon-General of the Army had informed me a few days previous, 
when I was in Washington City, that I should obtain my supplies from the depots 
at Tampa. On Major Pilcher's arrival at Tainpa, he presented these requisitions 
for approval to the chief surgeon of the corps, Maj. Benjamin F. Pope, who 
approved them, bitt informed him that it was necessary to get General Shaffer's 
ai^proval also. Major Pilcher informed me that General Shaffer refused to allow 
him anything whatever, stating that he would not let a thing leave Tampa until 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 713 

his corps liacl left for Cuba. In addition to this he iihiced Major Pilchcr on duty 
at Tampa, and retained him there for about two weeks. In tht; meantime, I was 
daily expecting supplies from Tampa, and did not consider it proper to make 
requisitions on Washington City under the circumstances; however, I found it 
necessary to purchase here cots, sheets, medical supplies, kitchen equipment, and 
other things for the hospital, which I had organized from material taken from 
the regiments. About the 12th of June, I, myself, was ordered to Tampa on 
a retiring board, and there obtained, through General Miles's approval, a carload 
of hospital supplies, consisting of hospital tents, common tents, medical and 
hospital supplies, quartermaster supplies, together with 12 ambulances, 14 escort 
wagons, and 104 mules, and on my return from Tampa 1 was thus enabled to 
organize the Second Division Amlnilance Company and to complete the organiza- 
of the Second Division hospital. Since that date medical supplies have been fur- 
nished regularly from "Washington City, New York, St. Louis, and other points, 
under the direction of the Surgeon-General, upon my requisitions, which were 
mostly telegraphic in character. The Seventh Army Corps has, since the refusal 
of General Shaffer's approval of my requisition, suffered in no wise for lack 
of medical and hospital supplies, and the Surgeon-General of the Army has 
been exceedingly generous, and has never refused anything that I have asked, but 
on the other hand has had them sent here, as a rule, by express. The success of 
the administration of the medical department of this corps is gi-eatly due to the 
Surgeon-General, through his generous approval of my requisitions. 



MEMORANDA — HOSPITAL CORPS. 

At the outbreak of the war the Hospital Corps consisted of 100 hospital stew- 
ards, 103 acting hospital stewards, and 520 privates, makmg a total of 723. The 
larger part of this number was ordered with the troops that left their respective 
stations to the camps of concentration and accompanied the regular regiments in 
the Fifth Army Corps to Cuba, the smaller part being left behind at the various 
army posts, they being just enough to take care of the medical property. 

Enlistments were at once ordered throughout the country of suitable men for 
the Hospital Corps, special attention being paid to enlisting nurses, pharmacists, 
cooks, drivers, mechanics, etc. A good many medical students and young physi- 
cians were also accepted. 

By means of enlistments, and afterwards by transfers from volunteer regiments 
to the Hospital Coi-jis, a large number of men were obtained, and to-day there are 
in service by actual count 5,084. Probably a thousand are in service whose enlist- 
ment and transfer is not yet reported. 

In addition to the members of the Hospital Corps enlisted for the purpose of 
taking care of our sick and wounded, we have employed 108 male nurses and over 
700 female nurses under conti-act. 



MEMORANDA FROM SURGEON-GENERAL, U. S. A.. RELATING 
TO HOSPITAL SHIPS. 



715 



HOSPITAL SHIPS. 



War Department, Surgeon-Generals Office, 

Washington, October 13, 1S98. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge, 

President Board to Investiqate War Department. 
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a memorandnni relating to hospi- 
tal ships employed by the Medical Department of the Army diiring the war with 
Spain. 

Very respectfully, Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General United States Army. 



HOSPITAL SHIPS. 



THE HOSPITAL SHIP RELIEF. 



About the 15th of April the Surgeon-General applied for a ship to be used as a 
hospital ship, and after an inspection had been made of various ships offered 
requested in the following indorsement that the steamship John Englis should be 
secured for this purjjose: 

"April 23, 1898. 

'• Respectfully returned to the Quartermaster-General of the Army. 

'• The steamship John Englis is well adapted for the purpose in view — a floating 
hospital for use at any Ciiban i)ort occupied by our troops, and entirjjly sea- 
worthy. I am not a competent judge as to the reasonableness of the terms pro- 
posed, but the Surgeon-General of the Navy tells me that in his opinion they are 
not unreasonable. I should expect to use the hospital ship also as a depot of 
reserve supplies for troops in the field. It would be fitted out to contain 500 beds, 
and would be available for the care of the sick and wounded at any point on the 
Cuban coast and for their transijortation to any point on our own coast. I 
respectfully request that this shix) may be secured for the piirpose indicated. 

" Geo. M. Sternberg, 
" Surgeon-General United States Army.'' 

This recommendation was not approved at the time, and various other ships 
were insi3ected, but none found to be suitable. On the 18th of May, by direction 
of the President, the John Englis was secured by purchase, and the Quartermas- 
ter's Department took charge of her for the purpose of jjreparing her for the spe- 
cial service required. Maj. George H. Torney, siirgeon. United States Army, 
who was formerly a medical officer in the United States Navy, was directed to 
make recommendations "vvith reference to necessary alterations and apparatus, 
and subsequently was placed in command of the ship. The following telegram 
was sent to Major Torney May 18: 

"Surg. George H. Torney, United States Army , 

''Army Building, 39 Wliitehall street, Netv York City: 
" The John Englis has been secured. Obtain estimates from several parties, if 
practicable, for satisfactory ice machine, steam disinfector, and steam laiinches, 
and send to me for approval. Steam laundry and distilling apparatus approved, 

'•Sternberg, 
'' Surgeon-General United States Army.''' , 

717 



718 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH .SPAIN. 

The necessary work upon the ship required more time than was anticipated. On 
June 13 I wrote to Major Torney as follows: 

"The hospital ship will be required at the earliest possible moment to go to 
^Santiago, where yon are likely to have plenty of sick and wounded men awaiting 
your arrival. I trust that you will do everything in your power to have the ship 
ready for orders at the earliest possible moment. * * * Be sure to get every- 
thing on board as soon as possible, for when you get your orders we want no 
delay on the gi'ound that certain articles for which requisition has been made are 
not yet on board ship." 

Again, on June 22. in a letter to Major Torney, I say: 

" You will do everything in your power to expedite the work upon the hospital 
ship Relief, and when she is ready for sea report to me by telegraph. Upon receiv- 
ing telegraphic orders to that effect you will proceed directly to Santiago de Cuba, 
reporting your arrival to the commanding general at that point. Your ship should 
be anchored in a safe harbor at such point as may be designated by the proper 
authorities and as near as possible to the seat of active operations. You will 
receive on board, up to the full capacity of the ship, the sick and wounded of the 
Army and Navy and care for them exactly as if they were in a general hospital. 
The Relief is regarded as a United States general hospital, and you will be 
expected to make such reports and returns as are required by regulations for a 
general hospital. Your attention is especially invited to A. R. 1-433, and should 
anyone attempt to exercise unauthorized authority over you or yoiir ship you 
will invite their attention to this regulation. When in your judgment, or in 
that of the commanding general or the chief surgeon of the troops at whatever 
point you may be located, it is desirable that you should proceed to a home port 
for the purpose of landing the sick and wounded, you will, if practicable, com- 
municate with me by telegraph and orders will be sent you designating the port 
for which you should sail. If it is not i^racticable to communicate with me by 
telegi-aph, you should apply to the commanding general of the troojjs for orders 
to proceed to such home port as may seem desirable, and immediately upon your 
arrival you should communicate with me by telegraph in order that arrangements 
may be made to transfer the sick and wounded to a general hospital. 

'• You will issue medical supplies, upon properly approved requisitions, to troops 
in the field and will do everything in your power to aid the medical officers with 
these troops in providing for the comfort of the sick by the issue of ice, hospital 
stores, and such delicacies as you may have at your disposal. 

" When practicable you will send to me once a week a telegi-aphic report show- 
ing the number of patients of the Army and of the Navy on board the hospital 
ship. You should make timely requisition for necessary supplies for use on the 
ship and for issue to troops in the field."' 

On Jime 25 the following telegram was sent to Major Torney: 

" The Secretary of War directs that you proceed as soon as practicable to San- 
tiago in compliance with your orders. Do not wait for steam launches." 

On June 27 the following additional insti-uctions were sent to Major Torney: 

" You should keep in view the fact that the Relief is a well-equipped floating 
hospital and a depot of supplies for troops in the field. It is important, therefore, 
that she should not be taken away from the scene of active operations iinless it is 
absolutely necessary for the piirpose of landing the sick and wounded at a home 
port. You should avail yourself of every opportunity to send proper cases by the 
navy ambiilance ship, the Solace, or by army transports returning to home ports. 
As a riile, the more serious cases of injury and sickness should be retained on your 
ship, as the disturbance incident to a sea voyage would be injurious to them. 
Convalescents and those sick and wounded who can be transported without in jiiry 
to themselves, and who are not likely to be fit for duty within a short time, should 
be sent to a home port whenever an opportunity offers." 



REPLY OF SUiiUEON-GENKKAL. 719 

On July 3 the following telegram was received from Major Torney: 

" The Relief will sail at 1 o'clock i). m." 

The Relief arrived at Siboney July 7. On July 18 the following dispatch was 
received from Major Torney: 

"All siTpplies having been landed and active operations ceased, chief surgeon 
recommends Relief proceed north to evacu;>te severely wounded, replenish, and 
refit to accompany expedition to Porto Rico. Ship not infected. Rccinest 
instructions." 

The Relief left Siboney July 19 with 254 sick and wounded and arrived at New 
York July 23. She sailed for Ponce, Porto Rico, on August 3 and returned to 
New York with 255 sick and wounded from Porto Rico, arriving August 19. She 
returned to Porto Rico for sick August 24, and in compliance with orders brought 
a load of sick to Philadelphia, arriving September 6. Was ordered September 10 
to proceed to Montauk Point to take a load of sick to Boston. Returned from 
Boston to Montauk Point and took a load of sick to Philadelphia. September 23 
sailed again for Porto Rico, and arrived at Fort Monroe with a load of sick 
October 11. 

HOSPITAL SHIP MISSOURI. 

On July 1 Mr. B. N. Baker, president of the Atlantic Transport Line, Balti- 
more, Md., tendered the steamship ilft.%'0?(r?., with her captain and crew to the 
Government as a hospital ship. This generous and patriotic offer was accepted 
by the Secretary of "War, and Maj. W. H. Arthur, surgeon, U. S. Volunteers 
(assistant surgeon, United States Army) , was ordered to take charge of her prepa- 
ration for service and subsequently to command her. On July 15 the following 
letter was written to the Quartermaster-General: 

" The steampship Missouri has been placed at the disposal of the Medical 
Department as a hospital ship. I have conferred with the Secretary of War with 
reference to this ship and he directs that she be fitted up in a satisfactory manner 
to prepare her for the service required. It is reported to me that she can be made 
available for six or seven htmdred sick or wounded men. She will, however, 
require considerable refitting. The kitchen will have to be very much enlarged 
to make it possible to cook for so many, temporary cabins will have to be built 
and other changes made. 

" ' Major Summerhayes says he can make all the necessary changes, and put in 
a steam laundry, steam sterilizing apparatus, ice, and carbonating plants within 
ten days or two weeks after the ship arrives. The lower deck is cemented over 
the steel plating and it may be necessary to remove the cement, as any cracks in 
it would make it impossible to get rid of the odor of cattle (the ship has been used 
for the transportation of cattle). This I am assured would take very little time. 
Major Summerhayes, if authority is given him, will.at once get bids for the refit- 
ting, including laundry, ice i^lant. and the general carpenter work, shelving, etc. 
Mr. Baker does not propose to supj^ly anything but ship and crew.' 

" The above quotation is from a letter from Maj. W. H. Arthur, .surgeon, U. S. 
Volunteers, who is to have charge of the ship. I respectfully request that orders 
may be given to make the necessary improvements and put in the necessary 
apparatiis at the earliest practicable date. 

" George M. Sternberg, 
'■'■ Siirgeon-Oeneral U. S. Aiiny." 

My expectations with reference to the time required for preparing this ship 
were not realized, and it was not until August 23 that the ship was ready to sail. 
She retiirned to Montauk Point from Santiago with 256 sick, proceeding from 
there to New York. 

The Missouri sailed from New York for Porto Rico Septt^mber 21 and rt>turned 
with 270 patients, who were placed in the Josiali Simpson General Hospital at 
Fort Monroe, Va., on October 6. 



720 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAK WITH SPAIN. 

THE HOSPITAL STEAMER OLIVETTE. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Pope, chief surgeon of the Fifth Army Corps, gives the 
following account of the use made of the steamer Olivette, which was selected by 
him to accompany the expedition to Santiago as a hospital ship: 

"As the embarkation took jilace and reports of sickness on the transports came 
in it became quite evident that a hospital steamer must be secured with the least 
possible delay. Under direction of the commanding general, I examined several 
boats with view to selection, but none of them presented more desirable qualities 
than the steamer Olivette, which was doing service as a water carrier and distrib- 
uter for all the transj^orts of the fleet. She had large stateroom accommodation 
both on the upper and lower deck, a large-sized dining saloon, which was later 
used as a place for surgical work; she carried plenty of ice and water; and was 
without cargo except some horses, I believe, and forage for the same, which was 
cleaned out later. 

" The transfer of Major Apiiel's hospital from the Comal was quickly effected, 
and he at once proceeded to gather up the sick from the various transports, sig- 
nals being hoisted every morning when his services were needed. These were 
from time to time transferred to small hospital on shore in the artillery camp, 
with view to theii" early transportation to the north. The removal of the sick 
from transports was often a slow and difficult i^rocess, particularly in rough 
water, for they first must be lowered into a small boat, which was at one time 
lifted on the crest of a rising wave and the next plunged into the gulf o'f a sink- 
ing one, and then pulled to the side of the hospital shiji, where the same dangerous 
process was to be repeated in getting them on board; but the work was continued, 
and hapi)ily without accident, until the fleet was cleared of its most serious cases. 

" On the afternoon of June 13 and morning of the 14th, the fleet of 28 transports 
and other craft sailed out from Tampa Bay with crowded decks and rigging, and 
bands playing. The weather was delightful and the sea as smooth as glass. 
Indeed, fair weather accompanied us the whole voyage, which occupied some 
eight days. Hatches and ports could be kept wide open, and the men lived vir- 
tually in the open air. Had it been otherwise, their sufferings from seasickness 
and the foul air of the unventilated holds would have been intolerable. 

"After the departure of the fleet, the Olivette steamed to the dock to take on 
coal for the voyage. An opportunity was given to unload the ship of some cases 
of measles and light cases of fever. This was a fortunate circumstance, as it 
placed the steamer in condition to relieve the transports of their sick on arrival 
at Daiquiri, many of whom were later transferred to the steamer Iroquois, so 
that room was made for the wounded of the impending battle on the 24th of 
June at Guasimas and the 1st and 2d of July at San Juan Hill and before the 
intrenchments of Santiago de Cuba." 

The Olivette left Santiago July 9 with 279 wounded officers and men and arrived 
at New York July 16. She returned to Santiago with supi^lies for the Fifth 
Army Corj)s, and on August 15 sailed for Montatik Point with 203 sick on board. 
She was ordered to Boston, where her sick were ijlaced in hospitals. Dr. Brad- 
bury, who had charge of the distribution, telegraphed AiTgust 23: 

" Olivette arrived this morning; patients distributed Avithout delay; ship arrived 
in excellent condition and patients very well cared for. " 

On August 25 the Olivette sailed from Boston under orders to i^roceed to Fer- 
nandina, Fla., for the i)urpose of bringing sick to the general hospital at Fort 
Monroe. On August 31 she sank in 20 feet of water while coaling off quarantine 
in the harbor of Fernandina. She was raised a few days later. No loss of life 
occurred, and the medical and hospital property on board was nearly all recovered. 
September 30 she sailed for Philadelphia and now lies at the wharf in that city. 



MEMORANDA RELATING TO THE EMPLOYMENT OF 
FEMALE NURSES. 



7833— VOL 1 46 721 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October 17, 189S. 
Gen. G. M. Dodge, 

President of Board to Investigate the War Department. 

Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith documents relating to the employ- 
ment of female nnrses during the war with Spain, and to my attitude toward the 
American National Red Cross and other relief organizations. 

It has been repeatedly charged in the newspapers that I have refused to accept 
the assistance of the American National Red Cross in the care of our sick and 
wounded soldiers, and that, as a resiilt of this refusal, there has been unnecessary 
suffering. These charges are withoiit foundation, except in so far as I have 
objected to the sending of female niirses with troops in the field engaged in active 
operations. We have a Red Cross Hospital Corps in the Army of enlisted men, 
whose duty it is to render first aid to the wounded upon the field of battle and to 
care for the sick in our division field hospitals, and I have been of the opinion 
that female nurses would be an incumbrance to troops during active operations; 
but so soon as serious sickness developed in our camps, and it became necessary to 
treat typhoid-fever cases in our field hospitals, I gladly accepted the services of 
trained female nurses for the division field hospitals, and in our general hospitals 
we have employed them from the first. The general testimony from the surgeons 
in charge of these hospitals has been that their services have been of great value. 
Very many of these trained nurses have been obtained through the kind assistance 
of the Red Cross Society for Maintenance of Trained Nurses, Auxiliary No. 3, and 
I desire to express my high appreciation of the valuable services rendered to the 
Medical Department of the Army by this organization. 

My attitude toward relief organizations is shown by an indorsement, dated 
May 5, upon a letter addressed by Rev. Henry C. McCook, of Philadelphia, to the 
President, and referred to me for remark: 

"Mays, 1898. 

" Respectfully returned to the Adjutant-General of the Army. 

•' The plan proposed for the organization of a relief association appears to have 
been well considered, and the object in view will commend itself to every iiatri- 
otic citizen. But it is a (piestion whether the President should give spei-ial priv- 
ileges to any particular organization. Other prominent individuals in different 
parts of the country may be organizing for the same purpose. One such propo- 
sition has come to me from Chicago. While I approve in a general way of 
organization for the relief work proposed, it appears to me that it vnW be best 
not to give in advance exclusive privileges to any one particular organization. 
In case of need, assistance should be accepted from any organization prepared to 
give it." 

This has been my guiding principle throughout, that relief when needed sliould 
be promptly accepted without reference to the source from which it comes. The 
relief afforded by the National Red Cross at Siboney was promptly accepted by 
the surgeons on the spot, but it is e\'ident that it was entirely inadequate to meet 
the emergency. 

A committee of the American National Red Cross Association called upon me 
in my office in Washington, some time in advance of the landing of our troops in 
Santiago, making an offer of assistance. I received them most courteously, and 

733 



724 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

advised tlieni to use their resources in fitting up a hospital ship, telling them that 
a hospital ship was now being fitted uj) for the use of the Medical Dei^artment, 
1 tut that it was not at all improbable that an emergency would arise which would 
overtax our resources, and that in such an event a hospital ship prox)erly equijiped, 
having on board a corps of doctors and nurses, would be a most valuable auxil- 
iary. 

Furthermore, the Amei"ican National Red Cross Association has had full au- 
thority to send agents and supi^lies to all our camps since June 9, 1898, and if 
there has been siiffering for want of needed siipplies they must share the respon- 
sibility with the Medical Department of the Army for such suffering. 

The following letter was sent by me to every chief surgeon of a department or 
independent army in the field on June 9, 1898: 

' ' The Secretary of War has approved of the following proposition made by the 
American National Red Cross Association, and the chief surgeons of army corps 
and divisions will cooperate with the authorized agents of this association for the 
purposes indicated. 

"We can -px\t any desired amount of hospital supplies, ice, malted milk, con- 
densed milk, Mellin's food, etc., into any of the volunteer camps in a few hours. 
Will you be kind enough to bring this letter to the attention of Secretary Alger 
and ask him if there is any objection to our appointing a Red Cross representative 
to report to the commanding officer and the chief surgeons in every camp, confer 
with them as to their immediate needs, and, if anything of any kind is wanting, 
open there a Red Cross station and send in the supplies. We can do this, not in 
a few weeks or a few days, but in a few hours, and can furnish any cpiantity of 
any desired luxury or delicacy for hospital use. We hereby tender our aid and 
put oiTr organization , at the War Department's service for cooperation in this 
field." 

To show my cordial relations with the National Red Cross Relief Committee, I 
venture to quote from a letter of Augvist 11, received by me from Mr. Cleveland 
H. Dodge, chairman of the supply committee. Mr. Dodge says: 

" I want again to assure you personally, and on behalf of our committee, of our 
earnest desire to assist you in every possible way, and to thank you for calling 
upon us so frankly." 

In a letter from Mrs. Winthrop Cowdin, vice-president of the Red Cross Society 
for Maintenance of Trained Nurses, dated August 13, she says: 

' ' We greatly appreciate your courtesy to its and feel most grateful to have been 
permitted to serve you in any way." 

There has been a great deal of misapprehension with reference to the supplies 
furnished by the Government, gi'owing out of the fact that medical officers in the 
field have been very ready to accept supplies from relief associations, which were 
freely offered and even urged upon them, rather than to make requisition for 
them. The volunteer medical officers especially appear to have had a great 
reluctance to assume any property responsibility, and as it was necessary for 
them to give receipts for the supplies issued to them by the Government, they 
preferred, as a rule, to accept these supplies from relief societies, even when they 
were present in ample amounts at a field supply depot in the immediate vicinity 
of their camps. The agents furnishing these supplies freqiiently inferred, from 
the fact that they were so readily accepted, that they could not have been obtained 
from the Government. Thiis, sheets, mosquito bars, cots, clinical thermometers, 
and many other articles which are upon our supply table have been very liberally 
supplied by these relief associations, although it has been the intention of the 
Medical Department to furnish these and all other articles necessary for the care 
of our sick, and there has been no time since the commencement of the war when 
they could not have been obtained upon a telegraphic requisition sent to the 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 725 

Surgeon-General of the Army if. for any reason, a siifficient supply was not on 
hand at the field supply depot. 

Very respectfully, Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgcon-Gcnmth l^. S. Army. 

Sheets, cots, thermometers, etc., could have been supplied on telegraphic 

requisitions. 

G. M. S., S. G. 



SELECTION OF FEMALE NURSES. 

At the outbreak of the war. nursing in the Army was done entirely by the men 
of the Hospital Corps; but the emjiloyment of contract nur.ses, regartUess of sex, 
was authorized by Congress in March. 1898. Before the 30th of April almost a 
thousand applications had been received from women who wished to serve as 
nurses, and a number of organizations had offered to supply bodies of nurses, 
but no examination of these applications had been possible. 

On April 28 the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution 
offered its services to the Surgeon-General of the Army, in the capacity of an exam- 
ining board for female nurses, and this offer ha\'ing been accepted the following 
day. all applications from women were referred to it for examination. The status 
of this organization rendered it peculiarly suitable to undertake this work. It 
has headquarters in Washington City, and 23,000 members living in every State 
and Territory of the Union, and as it has no affiliation with any hospital or body 
of nru-ses, it is entirely unprejudiced in its judgments. 

. Mrs. Anita Newcomb McGee, M. D., a physician in good and regular standing, 
and vice-president-general, National Society of the Daiighters of the American 
Revolution, was designated as director of the ■■ Daughters of the American Revo- 
lution Hospital Coi-ps " and placed in charge of this work. Her statement regard- 
ing the method of selection is as follows: 

"In accordance with directions from the Surgeon-General, tmly gi-aduate 
trained nurses were accepted by the Daughters of the American Revolution as 
eligible, and they were required to fill out blanks like the one appended hereto. 
In judging a nurse, three points were considered: 

"First. Professional ability; as e\'idence of which indorsements from physi- 
cians were usually submitted. In all cases the siiperintendent of the training 
school from which the nurse graduated was asked for her indorsement, and when 
this was refused the nurse was not accepted. A few women physicians in good 
standing were also accepted as nurses. 

"Second. Character; to establish which the indorsement of a Daughter of the 
American Revolution was reciuested (though never exacted). In lieu of this, 
the signature of any lady of kncnvn standing was accepted. Committees of 
' daughters' were fonned in all large cities and in many small ones, and rendered 
admirable ser^'ice in securing suitable applicants. 

"Third. Health: as e^^dence of which a physician's certificate was required. 
In certain cases, however, where the need for the nurse was too urgtnit to admit 
of delay, and where there was ^.o reason to doubt her health, this certificate was 
not filed. Originally the nurses were required to be between 30 and 'yO years of 
age, but the large number of desirable trained nurses who were under 30 caused 
that limit to be disregarded. 

" The e\-ident necessity for and importance of the limitation of appointments 
to trained nurses was neglected only in the sending of nurses to Santiago. As it 
was essential that they should be immune, it was impossible in all ca.ses to require 
gi'aduation. 



726 INYESTIOA^riON OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

"The assistance of all organizations that desired to recommend nurses was 
gladly welcomed, and applicants who conformed to the standard were accepted 
without regard to creed. 

"Almost 0,000 applications were examined hy my associates and myself, and 
about one-fifth of that number were accepted as eligible f(5r appointment by the 
Surgeon-General. " 

This arrangement with the Daughters of the American Revolution continued 
unti,'^, September 7, since which time Dr. McGee, having been appointed acting 
assistant si^rgeon. United States Army, has been on duty in the War Department, 
in charge, under my immediate direction, of matters pertaining to female nurses. 

In addition to the contract nurses, selected as above stated, Mrs. Namah Curtis 
was, on July 13, sent, by direction of the Surgeon-General, to New Orleans and 
other cities, to secure the service of colored imnnme women as nurses at Santiago, 
and 33 were selected by her. 

At the camps at Montaiik and Jacksonville the chief surgeons were authorized 
to contract with nurses who might apply to them, and at each place a number 
were enrolled in this way. 

The nursing at a tew of the army hospitals has been done l)y volunteers, with 
whom no contracts were made. 

[Question blank.] 
Name in full. 

Address and nearest telegraph station. 
Do you desire appointment in Army or Navy? 
How soon after receiving an appointment can you leave home? 
Have yon had yellow fever? 

Are you a graduate of a training school for nurses? 
If so, what school and what year? 
What other hospital experience have you had? 
Have you nursed continuously since graduation? 
If not, what has been your occupation? 
What experience have you had in invalid cookery? 
What is your age? Date and place of birth? 

ColoF? Height? Weight? 

Are you single, married, or widowed? 

Are yoti strong and healthy, and have you always been so? 
Have you a tendency to any disease? 
Have you been successfully vaccinated, and when? 
What is vour legal residence? 



American National Red Cross Relief Committee, 

New York, August 11, 1S9S. 
Maj. Gen. George M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General U. S. Army, War Department, Washington, D. C. 
My Dear General Sternberg: I want to apologize for not having replied 
yesterday to your good letter of the 9th instant, but I was kept at the supply depot 
of the Red Cross all the morning and did not get to my office until afternoon, 
and I wished to submit your letter to the executive committee of the Red Cross 
Relief, which met late in the afternoon. 

The committee appreciated most thoroughly the opportunity which you have 
given us of cooperating with you in siich a practical way, and there was no hesi- 
tation whatever in their willingness to comply with your reciuest. 

As your letter did not mention any particular sum which was needed, we voted 
to send you $5,000 at once, with the request that you would let us know if this is 



REPLY OF SUKMiEON-GKNEHAr.. 727 

not sufficient for your immediate wants, and to kindly let lis know in the future 
if at any time we conld lielp yon Ity sending yon a further sum. 

We thought it would be better to put this amount in your hands for distribu- 
tion, as you can send the money directly, without unnecessary delay. It would, 
however, be a satisfaction to us if you would let us know, in due tinu-, to what 
general hospitals the money is sent. 

1 want again to assure you personally, and on behalf of our committee, of our 
earnest desire to assist you in every possible way, and to thank you for car ig 
upon us so frankly. 

I inclose check for $5,000 to yoiir order, and, depending upon you to 1ft me know 
if we can help you still further, believe me. 

Very respectfully, yoiirs, CI.:tf^-ELA^•l) H. Dodge, 

Chairvnni Hwpply Committee. 

P. S. — If you should happen to hear how the chickens, eggs, and ice cream 
reached Santiago on the Olivette, and whether they were at all helpful, will you 
kindly let me know, as the experiment of sending these supplies interested mc 
very much. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, Octoher 7, ISOS. 
Mr. A. E. Orr, 

Vice-chairman Red Cross Relief Committee, New York City, N. Y. 

My Dear Mr. Orr: I have received the copy of your letter to the President. 
In answer to your question as to ' ' Why the intervention of the Red Cross relief 
committee should ])e longer needed, and why the Government does not see to it 
that its own sick are provided for, "J would say: 

The emergencies of the war made the assistance of relief associations most 
valuable, notwithstanding the fact that it is the intention of the Government to 
provide liberally for the care of sick soldiers. But, as you know, with ample 
means and good intentions, supplies can not always be provided at the proper place 
and time to meet an emergency. Moreover, at the outset of the war the arrange- 
ments made for providing light diet for the sick, which had proved satisfactory 
in time of peace under the careful management of experienced medical officers, 
were inadequate under the conditions which prevailed in our camps of instruction 
and among troops engaged in a(;tive operations. For this reason the presence of 
Red Cross agents, with their abundant supplies of delicacies for tht^ .sick, has been 
of inestimable value. But provision was made liy a general order published 
August 10 (G. O., 116) by which surgeons in charge of hospitals, general, division, 
ov regimental, are enabled to draw GO cents per day for each sick enli.sted man of 
the Army in lieu of his regular ration. Up to tliat time the commutation value 
of a ration was only '50 cents. 

The Medical Department does not supply food for the .sick in hospital. Tliis is 
obtained from the Commissary Department or by purchase wherever it can be 
procured. I inclose herewith a list showing the articles which can be purchased 
from the commissary, which list, as you will see, includes canned soups, tapioca, 
crackers, jellies, tea, butter, etc. Milk, chickens and eggs, fresh vegetables, etc., 
are purchased wherever they can be obtained. The Medical Department furnishes 
a few articles under the head of "Hospital stores," including condensed milk, 
sugar, and tea; but no other food supplies are furnished by the Medical Depart- 
ment or can l)e properly paid for from the medical and hospit;U appropriation. 
Of course, if the Commis.sary Department fails to provide these supplies, and they 
can not be purchased in the vicinity of a camp or hospital, the difficulty of pro- 
viding proper food for the sick will be very great, and under such ciixumstauces 



728 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

the supplies of relief associations have been most welcome. But the amount now 
allowed hy the Government is ample to provide everything necessary in the way 
of suitable diet for the sick, and when there is any failure to provide this it is a 
failure in administration by those immediately in charge and not a failure of the 
Government to provide the necessary means. 

You will no doubt agree with me that 60 cents a day for the raw material from 
which to prei^are a proper diet for the sick is a most liberal provision. The 
experience of medical officers shows that it is not only ample but excessive, and 
that for sick men, living for the most part iipon milk, weak soups, and farina- 
ceoits food, this amount is much in excess of any reasonable requirement. 

Under these circumstances, I think that those patriotic and liberal citizens 
who have contributed so freely of their money and time to aid in the care of oiir 
sick soldiers may now leave the matter in the hands of the Government without 
any apprehension as to the result. 

Very sincerely, yours, Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, October 15, 1S08. 

Mrs. WiNTHROP COWDIN, 

J/Sl Madison Avemie, Netv York, N. Y. 

My Dear Mrs. Cowdin: I have received yoiir kind letter of October 14, inclos- 
ing a check for $2,000 for my special fund for extra comforts and luxuries for oiir 
sick and wounded soldiers. Accept my sincere thanks for this liberal contribu- 
tion. 

I do not think favorably of the establishment of a hospital in Cuba or in Porto 
Rico by the Red Cross Society, for the reason that the war is over and the garri- 
sons wMch are to be stationed in these islands will reqiiire a fully equipped hos- 
pital, which it is the duty of the Government to provide, and which we intend to 
provide. During the rush incident to bringing large numbers of volunteer troops 
into the field, and during our active operations in Cuba and Porto Rico, emergen- 
cies constantly arose in which there was a failure to get necessary medical supplies 
and proper light diet for the sick to the places where they were most urgently 
needed. Such emergencies always arise under similar conditions, notwithstand- 
ing the intention of the Government to provide everything necessary for the com- 
fort of our sick and wounded soldiers. 

I appreciate very highly the valuable assistance which has been rendered by the 
Red Cross Society; but I think it would be demoralizing to our medical officers 
and to the service generally if we should continue to depend ujion the contribu- 
tions and voluntary assistance of patriotic citizens for the care of our sick in the 
islands which have come into our possession. 

Very sincerely, yours, Geo. M. Sternberg, ' 

Surgeon-Oeneral U. S. Army. 



Paul Smiths, Franklin County, N. Y., August 17, 1S9S. 
Dear General Sternberg: Your telegram has just been received, and I imme- 
diately forwarded it to Mrs. Cowdin, who, in my absence, is representing the com- 
mittee on trained nurses in New York. We have just sent Mrs. Quintard to take 
charge of our nurses at Montauk, and we stand ready to send as many additional 
men and women as the surgeon may call for. Six male nurses have gone to help 
until they are needed on the Missouri. They are part of twelve carefully selected 
men intended for that ship, and are prepared to go whenever she is ready to sail. 
You niTtst know, far better than I can tell you, how many nurses we have sent 



REPLY OF SUKGEON-GENEHAL. 729 

out. but you may be interested to know that they are all very enthusiastic. I hope 
that they are of assistance to the Government, as our only object is to be of u.se. 
I should judjj^e from the letters we receive almost daily from the head surj^eons of 
the hospitals, imder whom they are serving, that they are doing good work, and 
they seem very proud and pleased to be able to help. I hope they will save many 
lives. I am glad that our relations with Dr. McGee are so cordial, for she is a 
capable woman and her assistance has been invaluable to us. I am sure that you 
are as pleased as we are that we are now working in perfect harmony with the 
Government, and we shall do everything possible on our part to c-ontinue these 
friendly relations. I see by the paper that there is to be a n(>w liospital at Fort- 
ress Monroe, and I hoi)e you will remember how anxious we are to be of u.se to the 
authorities and will call upon us tt) supply nurses for this also. 

Our nurses are very carefully selected at the Presbyterian Hospital now by Mrs. 
Cowdin, assisted by Miss Pierce. Miss Wadley. and Miss Gill, and I am .sure that 
with the great pains and care we are now giving to this matter our nurses will 
prove absolutely reliable and satisfactory. It gives me great pleasure to know 
how much good resulted from your visit to Bellevue. I hear constantly from the 
men, and they tell me how comfortable they are. It is very gfatifying to me that 
a hospital in which I am so deejily interested shoiald have been of so much service 
to the Government. 

With kind regards to Mrs. Sternberg and renewed thanks for all the courtesy 
you have shown us, 

I am, very sincerely, yours, Elizabeth Mills Reid. 



Red Cross Society for Maintenance of Trained Nurses, etc., 

15 Went Eleventh Street. New York, Sejttember 14. 7SHS. 
The Surgeon-General of the Army. 

My Dear General: I beg to acknowledge with many thanks your telegi-am of 
to-day. I have felt for some time like writing and telling you of the admirable 
work done by your surgeons at Fort Hamilton, Fort Wadsworth. and Governors 
Island. I try to visit those ho.spitals at least once a week. My relations with 
Major Rafferty, Captain Frick, and Major Kimball are exceptionally pleasant, 
and they have expressed to me a desire that you would permit me to contiuTie a 
supervision over the nurses at those hospitals. It is a great pleasure to know that 
I shall still be associated in this work during the time that the nurses" services 
are required. I have striven to pick out nurses who would be entirely satisfac- 
tory to the siirgeons and have recalled two or three who did not seem to do well 
under the new conditions. After my visits on Simday to Fort Wadsworth and 
Fort Hamilton, I felt a strong desire to tell you of the excellent work being done 
at those hospitals, which, of course, applies to Governors Island, though I was 
prevented on Sunday from going there. The patients are all improving in a very 
remarkable degree. 

The greatest care is shown by the surgeons and nurses, and the excellent dietary 
arrangements have done wonders for those whose digestions have been affected 
by the Cuban campaign. It has been my pleasure lately to t(>stify in many direc- 
tions of the highly encouraging conditions existing at those hospitals, and I have 
also made three visits to Montauk, where, so far as I can judge, everything that 
human beings could do is being done there under difficult conditions of camp. It 
has been a great privilege to have been assocdated with you in the common Avork 
of caring for our soldiers, and I have felt that at this time, so full of care and 
anxiety for you, the cheerful condition of our neighboring army hospitals should 
be brought to your notice especially, and to that of our people here. 

It will be my aim hereafter to continue my present supervision until you relieve 
me of it. and I do not need to assure you that I will spare no effort to have the 



730 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

nurses render the best possible service to tlie surgeons in charge and the patients 
in their care. 
With kind regards to Mrs. Sternberg, I am, 

Sincerely, yours, Lena Potter Cowdin, 

Acting President. 



Red Cross Society for Maintenance of Trained Nurses, etc., 

15 West Eleventh Street, Neic Yoi-k, Atigust 13. 

My Dear General: May I say how sincerely I regret that you have been 
annoyed by letters from an agent of Miss Barton's named Cobb. As I telegraphed 
Dr. McGee, Cobb has no jurisdiction whatever over us, since we are auxiliary 
to the relief committee, of which my father, Bishop Potter, is chairman: and I 
have been authorized by this committee to make such an arrangement with you 
as woiild be of real service to you, in placing nurses where they are needed. I 
have deposited with the Daughters of the Anaerican Revolution Hospital Corps a 
sum of money to be used for prompt transportation, and it will be my great jileas- 
ure and privilege to see that the nurses now at Fort Wadsworth and Governors 
Island do for your surgeons the best possible service. 

We greatly appreciate your courtesy to us, and feel most grateful to have been 
permitted to serve you in any way. 

Believe me, sincerely, yours, Lena P. Cowdin. 



Red Cross Society for Maintenance of Trained Nurses, etc., 

15 West Eleventh Street, August 10. 
My Dear General: I regret to learn that Mr. Stephen Barton has made some 
unauthorized use of my name to you. Please believe that I am in daily commu- 
nication with Dr. McGee, and carry out her instructions to the letter. I have 
nothing whatever to do with Mr. Stephen Barton or a man named Cobb. 
Sincerely, yours, 

L. P. Cowdin. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, August 25, 1S98. 
Mr. Stephen E. Barton, 

Chairman Executive Committee, American National Red Cross, 

5S William Street, New York, N. Y. 

Sir: Your letter of August 22, inclosing a letter from Rev. Alex. Kent, has 
been referred to me. I shall refer it to the chief surgeon at Jacksonville for 
report, and a coiiy of his report will be sent you when received. 

The closing paragi-aph of Mr. Kent's letter, to which you call special attention, 
is as follows: 

"Reports this morning reveal a startling mortality among the typhoids — thir- 
teen in the last twenty -four hoiirs in the Second Division alone. Most of this, in 
my judgment, is due to the want of proper nursing. In the first place, the num- 
ber of nurses is insufficient and their hours too long. In the second place, most 
of them are not skilled nurses; they are having their first experience in the care 
of typhoids. Effort has been made to remedy this, bnt the only way in which it 
can be remedied is one contrary to the view of the Surgeon-General, and one, 
therefore, which his subordinates do not feel at liberty to take. The Red Cross 
has on several occasions offered to furnish skilled nurses at its own expense, but 
has uniformly met with the reiily, ' We are abundantly supplied with siicli nurses 
now.' Since that reply was made to Mr. Cobb, however, the surgeon in chief has 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 731 

dispatched a gentleman to New York to secure 150 nnrses, Imt the opposition to 
female nnrses eontinnes, and as no adei^nate snpply of traint'cl male mirses can 
be found, onr ])oys must continue to die for want of intelligent, skillful nursing." 

Mr. Kent is lali(n-ing under a misapprehension with reference to my vi(>ws. I 
have never objected to sending trained ftnnale nurses to our general hospitals or 
to field hospitals in which typhoid fever cases are treated. We have now in serv- 
ice more than 500 trained female nurses. The health of the command at Jack- 
sonville had been reported to me as excellent until very recently, when, as I 
understand, a considerable number of cases of tyi^hoid fever have developed. On 
Augiist 20 the chief surgeon applied to me for 50 trained female nurses. Imme- 
diately ui)on receiiit of this application I recpiested the committee, through whii-h 
I obtained trained female nurses, and of which Dr. Anita Newcomb McGree is 
chairman, to send, as soon as possilde, 50 trained female nurses to Jacksi)nville, 
to report to the chief surgeon at that point. 

We have already many Red Cross niirses in service at our various hospitals and 
camps. These have been obtained through the cooperation of a committee of 
ladi(\s in this city of which Dr. McGee is chairman, and the Red Cross Society 
for maintenance of trained nurses, auxiliary to the American National Red Cross 
relief committee. The arrangements made have been entirely satisfactory to 
me, as they insure a supply of propei-ly trained nurses of good character; and all 
applications from Jacksonville or elsewhere for assistance of this kind have 
received prompt attention. 

Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General U. S. Aniiy. 



[Telegram.] 

Surgeon-General's Office, 
Washington, August 15, 1S9S. 
C'olonel FoRWOOD, 

Chief Snrgeon, Montnvk Point, Long Island, N. Y. : 
Accept services of 30 trained female nurses offered by Mr. Howard Townsend. 

Sternberg, Siirgeon-Oenerul. 



[Telegram.] 

Surgeon-Generat/s Office, 
Washington, August lU, ISOS. 
Mrs. Elizabeth Mills Reid, 

Paul Smith's, Neio York: 
Have autiiorized Colonel Forwood, Montauk Point, to accept as many Red 
Cross trained nurses as he re(iuires from you or your authorized agents. 

Sternberg, Surgeou-Ueneral. 



[Telegram.] 

Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, August IG, ISOS. 
Colonel Forwood, 

Assistant Surgeon-General, 

Camp Wikoff, Montatik Point, Long Island, N. Y. : 
You are authorized to accept, as many Red Cross trained nurses as you require 
from Mrs. Elizabeth Mills Reid or her authorized agents. 

Sternberg, Surgeon-Ueueral. 



732 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Association, 

Boston, June IG, ISOS. 
Ge7i. George M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General, U. S. Army. 
My Dear Sir: I am reqviested by medical committee, Drs. H. P. Walcott, Samuel 
A. Green, and Herbert L. Burr ell, to ask you whether you woiild be willing to 
authorize a medical man, coming out from Massachusetts, to visit camps, to ascer- 
tain the comfort needs of the Massachusetts troops. There is a ladies' auxiliary 
aid of the Massachusetts Voliinteer Aid Association, and they are very anxious 
indeed to supply such needs as will be to the material comfort of our volunteers, 
but naturally this should be done under medical advice. 

Will you give permission for a discreet medical man to visit the camps as may 
be necessary, and that medical man to report to iis as a medical committee, and 
we to tell the ladies" aid. what things are necessary, if any, to be forwarded? 

There is a tremendous amoiint of enthusiasm in that part of the community, 
especially among women, and this should be utilized to the highest point that is 
practicable. 

Very truly, yoiirs, Herbert L, Burrell, 

Secretary of Medical Committee. 



Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, June 17, 1S9S. 
Dr. Herbert L. Burrell, 

Secretary Medical Committee, 22 Neiohury street, Boston, Mass. 
My Dear Dr. Burrell: Your letter of June 16 is at hand and I have already 
had an interview with Dr. Brice and given him a card of introduction to the chief 
surgeon at Camp Alger. He will have no difficulty in seeing the division hos- 
pitals, etc. 

Very truly, yours, Geo. M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-Oe'.ieral U. S. Army. 



War Department, Washington, July 23, ISDS. 
Sir: The hospital ship Bay State has been fitted out by the Massachusetts Vol- 
unteer Aid Association and has been commissioned by the United States Govern- 
ment under the International Red Cross Convention. The purpose of the ship, 
under the direction of its surgeon-superintendent. Dr. H. L. Burrell, is to aid the 
medical authorities of the Army and Navy of the United States in caring for 
the sick and wounded soldiers and sailors. You are directed to aid and assist 
the aiTthorities of the Bay State as far as practicable. 

Very respectfully, R. A. Alger, 

Secretary of War. 
To the Officers Commanding United States Troops. 



Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Association, 

Boston, July 25, 1S9S. 
Gen. George M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 
My Dear General: Equipment and circumstances permitting, the Massa- 
chusetts hospital ship Bay State, equipped by the Massachusetts Volunteer Aid 
Association, will sail August 1, and I have been asked to serve as surgeon- 



REPLY OF SURGEON-GENERAL. 733 

superintendent. I shall esteem it a great favor if you will do what you can to 
enable me to make the ship as useful as possible as a sujiplemeiitary aid to the 
medical departments of the United States Army and the United States Navy. 
If there are any letters of introduction that you may feel that you could Kive me 
I should naturally be very glad to receive them. 

The destination of the ship at the present moment has not been decided, biit if 
it is left in my hands I shall telegi-aph to you at the last moment, asking f(jr 
directions from you as Surgeon-General of the Army. Natiirally, the ship hav- 
ing been equipped by the Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Asso(dation, everyone 
here is especially desirous that we shoiild alford aid first to Massachusetts troops, 
and naturally this would be my own wish, but I believe that I th()r(^ughly under- 
stand the necessity for the ship going as a supplementary aid to the medical 
departments of the Army and Navy, as they may desire. However, my dear 
General, I think you know me well enough to know that it will be my desire to 
assist in any way I find is for the best interests of all concerned. Begging for an 
early and, I trust, a favorable reply, 

Believe me, very truly, yours, 

Herbert L. Burrell. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, July 27, 1S08. 
Dr. Herbert L. Burrell, 

CommomveaWt, Building, 11 Mount Vernon Street, Boston, Mass. 
My Deajr Dr. Burrell: I have received your letter of July 25 and thank you 
for the kind offer made. I think the best thing you can do when you are ready 
to sail will be to proceed directly to such seaport in Porto Rico as may serve as 
the base of operations for our troops, reporting upon your arrival to the chief sur- 
geon of the army in the field, and receiving from him instructions Avith reference 
to the care of such sick and wounded soldiers as may be intrusted to your charge. 
Very truly, yours, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 



Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Association, 

Boston, August 3, ISOS. 
Gen. George M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. 

Dear Sir: The hospital ship Bay State will, I believe at the present moment, 
sail on Saturday, August 6. Will you have the kindness to forward to me by 
post or wire, so that it will reach me before G a. m. on Saturday, August (!, any 
directions or suggestions that you desire to make to me. 

It is my desire to be of as efficient supplementary aid to the medical depart- 
ments of the United States Army and Navy as is practicable. The ship having 
been equipped by volunteer subscriptions from the people of Massachusetts, 
naturally it is their wish and most certainly it is my own desire to render as 
much aid as is practicable to Massachusetts soldiers and sailors. 

However, the ship is entirely for the purpose of doing as much good as is pos- 
sible in following suggestions or directions from the Surgeon-General of the 
Army and the Surgeon-General of the Navy. The practical point is that the 
conditions may c-hange between now and the time of sailing, and consequently I 
shall esteem it a favor if you ^\^ll wire me where to go to dt) the most good. 
Post will reach me at 32 Newbury street, Boston, up to Friday, August 5, at 5 



734 INVESTIGATION OF CONDUCT OF WAR WITH SPAIN. 

p. m. Wire will reach me at the same place until 7 a. m. on Saturday, August 6, ] 
1898. 

Very respectfully, Herbert L. Burrell, 

Surgeon-Superintendent Massachusetts Hospital Ship Bay State. 



Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Association, 

Boston, August 1, 1898. 
Gen. George M. Sternberg, 

Surgeon-General U. S. Army, Washi7igton, D. C. 
Dear Sir: Inquiries have been made of the hospitals in this immediate com- 
munity who woiild be willing to take patients of the United States Army, if they 
were brought by the ship Bay State, and it gives me a great deal of pleasure to say 
to you that the Boston City Hospital will take 30: the Massachusetts General Hos- 
pital will take 30 to 50, and the Marine Hospital will take from 50 to 75, which 
would unquestionably cover any exigency that might arise. Further accommoda- 
tions could be arranged for, and I am positive that any troops that are brought 
here will not alone be welcomed, but will be very efficiently cared for. 

Very respectfully, yours, 

Herbert L. Burrell, 

Surgeon-Superintendent Massachusetts Hospital Ship Bay State. 



War Department, Surgeon-General's Office, 

Washington, August 3, ISDS. 
Dr. Herbert L. Burrell, 

Surgeon-SupeHntendent Massachusetts Hospital Ship Bay State, 

11 Mount Vernon street, Boston, Mass. 
Dear Sir: Please convey my thanks to the officers in charge of the Boston City 
Hospital, the Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Marine Hospital for their 
kind offer to take care of any of our sick and wounded soldiers who may be 
brought to Boston on the ship Bay State. 1 gladly accept this offer, and leave it 
for you to place any soldiers you may bring home in these hospitals. 
Very respectfully, 

Geo. M. Sternberg, 
Surgeon-General U. S. Army. 



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